Syria’s interim Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani visited Iraq, emphasizing cooperation against the Islamic State. This visit comes amid recent security developments, including the killing of a senior IS leader. Relations between Syria and Iraq remain complicated post-Assad’s ouster, particularly concerning minority violence and efforts toward civil peace.
On a recent visit to Baghdad, Syria’s interim Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani expressed his government’s willingness to enhance collaboration with Iraq in combating the remaining elements of the Islamic State group. This trip coincided with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani’s announcement regarding the elimination of a senior IS leader, marking Shaibani’s inaugural visit since the recent shift in power that saw the removal of Bashar al-Assad in December.
The geopolitical dynamics between Syria and Iraq have evolved since Assad’s ouster, impacting their bilateral relations. Iraq, predominantly Shiite and an important United States ally, has also maintained strong ties with Iran, which historically supported Assad’s regime. During the protracted civil war in Syria, various Iraqi armed factions had aided Assad’s forces, complicating regional alliances further.
During his visit, Shaibani met with Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, where both officials discussed the shared responsibility of security. Shaibani asserted, “We are ready to reinforce cooperation with Iraq in the fight against Daesh (Islamic State) along the whole length of the border. Terrorism knows no borders.” This statement underscores the urgency of coordinated action against terrorism in the region.
The Iraqi Prime Minister highlighted the recent operation that led to the death of Abdullah Makki Muslih al-Rufayi, an IS leader identified as a significant threat. Sudani noted that this involved cooperation with the US-led anti-jihadist coalition, emphasizing the strategic ties between Iraq and its international partners in counter-terrorism efforts.
Hussein also addressed concerns over the mass killings of civilians in Syria, particularly targeting the Alawite community, and expressed hope for meaningful outcomes from an investigation by Syrian authorities. Baghdad had condemned the atrocities that led to the deaths of at least 1,383 innocents in coastal Syria, mostly Alawites, during the prior week.
In response to the violence, Iraqi authorities have initiated an investigation into attacks on Syrian nationals within Iraq. Recent arrests of 13 Syrians suspected of promoting extremist groups illustrate the heightened tensions. Furthermore, Syria’s foreign ministry has called upon Baghdad to implement measures ensuring the safety of its citizens residing in Iraq.
The visit of Syria’s interim Foreign Minister to Iraq marks a significant step towards rekindling collaboration between the two nations, particularly in the realm of security against terrorism. As they navigate complex historical ties and recent geopolitical shifts, the emphasis on cooperative efforts against the Islamic State group is paramount. The ongoing concerns surrounding violence against the Alawite community further underscore the necessity of addressing humanitarian issues alongside security cooperation.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
