Syria’s interim Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani visited Iraq to emphasize cooperation in combating IS remnants. This visit coincided with Iraqi Prime Minister Sudani’s announcement regarding the killing of a senior IS leader. The complex relations between Syria and Iraq have evolved following the ousting of Assad, with concerns regarding security and human rights violations prevalent in discussions. A significant focus was placed on ongoing investigations into the targeted Alawite community in Syria.
On his recent visit to Baghdad, Syria’s interim Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani expressed the country’s willingness to “reinforce cooperation” with Iraq, specifically in combating remnants of the Islamic State (IS) group. His visit coincided with an announcement from Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani regarding the successful elimination of a senior IS leader, illustrating the ongoing security challenges faced by both nations.
This marks Shaibani’s inaugural trip to Iraq following the dislodgement of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in December. The overthrow of Assad has complicated the historically close ties between Syria and Iraq. Iraq, with a Shiite Muslim majority, balances its strategic partnership with the United States alongside its alliance with Iran—Assad’s primary supporter during the Syrian civil conflict.
During his time in Baghdad, Shaibani held discussions with Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein. Emphasizing the need for collaboration, he stated, “Security is a shared responsibility.” He reinforced the commitment of Syria to cooperate with Iraq in the fight against terrorism along their shared border, highlighting the borderless nature of terrorism.
Prime Minister Sudani shared on social media that Abdullah Makki Muslih al-Rufayi, killed by Iraqi security forces, was identified as a significant terrorist figure, holding the title of IS governor for the Syrian and Iraqi regions. Although details of Rufayi’s death remain sparse, the operation involved coordination with the US-led anti-jihadist coalition operating within Iraq.
Furthermore, Foreign Minister Hussein conveyed Iraq’s concerns regarding recent allegations of mass killings targeting the Alawite minority within Syria. Iraq hopes that ongoing investigations by Syrian authorities will yield meaningful outcomes, fostering civil peace. In a recent incident, Iraqi officials condemned the massacre of over 1,383 civilians in coastal Syria, primarily affecting the Alawite community.
The visit of Syria’s interim Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani to Iraq marks a significant step in reinforcing cooperation against terrorism, specifically remnants of the Islamic State. The engagement highlights both nations’ desire to address security challenges amidst complex political relations. Additionally, ongoing concerns about human rights violations and efforts for accountability are poised to influence future cooperative efforts and regional stability.
Original Source: www.france24.com
