Syria’s interim Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani, during his Baghdad visit, underscored a committed stance towards enhanced cooperation with Iraq to combat IS remnants. His discussions coincided with announcements of significant IS leadership casualties and a broader focus on security relations amid rising sectarian challenges and civilian protection.
Syria’s interim Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani visited Iraq, emphasizing his government’s readiness to enhance collaboration with Iraq in combating the remnants of the Islamic State (IS) group. His trip coincided with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani’s announcement regarding the killing of a significant IS leader by Iraqi security forces. This marked Shaibani’s first trip to Iraq since the Islamist alliance overthrew Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in December.
Since Assad’s ousting, relations between Syria and Iraq have become increasingly complex. Iraq, which has a Shiite Muslim majority, serves as a strategic partner of the United States while being a crucial ally of Iran, a historical supporter of Assad. The Iraqi armed factions had contributed to defending Assad’s regime during Syria’s prolonged civil conflict, highlighting the intertwined interests of both nations during this tumultuous period.
Shaibani’s discussions in Baghdad included a meeting with Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein. At a joint press conference, Shaibani stated, “Security is a shared responsibility,” reiterating Syria’s commitment to bolstering cooperation in the fight against Daesh (IS) along their mutual border, emphasizing that “terrorism knows no borders.”
In the backdrop, Sudani publicly recognized the death of Abdullah Makki Muslih al-Rufayi, a notorious IS figure whom he labeled as one of the most dangerous terrorists globally. Sudani praised Iraqi intelligence efforts carried out in collaboration with the US-led coalition, although he did not disclose the timing of Rufayi’s elimination.
Minister Hussein raised concerns regarding the investigation by Syria’s new authorities into mass civilian killings, predominantly affecting the Alawite minority, expressing hope for tangible outcomes to restore civil peace in Syria. Baghdad had previously condemned the killings of 1,383 civilians in coastal Syria by security forces and affiliated groups.
As sectarian tensions rise, Iraq’s government is also examining an attack on Syrian workers within its borders, purportedly retaliation for the civilian deaths. Reports indicate that Iraqi forces have detained several Syrians accused of supporting terrorist factions linked to these mass killings. In response, Syria’s foreign ministry has called upon Baghdad to ensure the safety of Syrian citizens residing in Iraq, reflecting the escalating diplomatic tensions amid regional instability.
In summary, the visit of Syria’s interim Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani to Iraq underscores the pressing need for collaborative security measures against the IS group. The evolving relationship between Syria and Iraq is shaped by complex historical ties and recent upheavals. Syria’s government is urged to conduct thorough investigations into civilian casualties, affecting prospects for peace and cooperation in the region. The pressing issues of sectarian violence and the protection of Syrian nationals in Iraq further complicate this diplomatic situation, necessitating constructive dialogue and joint efforts to mitigate security threats.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
