Syria’s interim foreign minister Asaad al-Shaibani visited Iraq to enhance security cooperation against Islamic State remnants. This visit follows tensions arising from violence against Alawites in Syria and reflects complex diplomatic relations. Both leaders emphasized shared responsibilities in fighting terrorism and addressing recent civilian massacres, marking a significant moment in regional security discussions.
Asaad al-Shaibani, Syria’s interim foreign minister, visited Baghdad to strengthen security cooperation with Iraq against the remnants of the Islamic State (IS). His visit coincided with the announcement from Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani regarding the killing of a senior IS leader, highlighting ongoing security concerns in the region. Shaibani’s trip marks his first visit to Iraq after the Islamist coalition overthrew Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in December.
The dynamics between Syria and Iraq have shifted since Assad’s ousting, affecting diplomatic relations. While Iraq has a majority Shiite Muslim population and maintains a strategic partnership with the United States, it also aligns closely with Iran, a previously significant supporter of Assad. During Syria’s civil war, various Iraqi armed groups defended Assad’s regime, complicating their relationship with the new Syrian government led by Sunni Muslim rebels.
In his meeting with Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, Shaibani emphasized shared responsibility, stating, “Security is a shared responsibility” and announced readiness for enhanced cooperation against IS along both countries’ borders, given that “terrorism knows no borders.” This collaboration is crucial now as Iraq continues operations against IS militants, including the recent targeted killing of Abdullah Makki Muslih al-Rufayi, recognized as a prominent IS figure.
In addition, Hussein expressed hope for conclusive results from Syria’s inquiry into recent mass killings of civilians, mainly targeting the Alawite minority. He stated concerns for the Alawite community and desired that the newly formed commission provides significant outcomes to ensure civil peace. The massacre in question led to the deaths of 1,383 Alawites and has raised alarms for both the Iraqi and Syrian governments.
Furthermore, Iraq is investigating an attack linked to a group vowing to avenge these mass killings. Iraqi authorities have detained several Syrians accused of advocating terrorism and complicity in violence against Alawites, reflecting the escalating tensions. In response to these developments, Syria’s foreign ministry has urged Iraqi officials to safeguard its citizens residing in Iraq.
The visit of Syria’s interim foreign minister to Iraq paves the way for enhanced collaboration in combating remnants of the Islamic State. It also underscores the deteriorating relationship between Syria and Iraq post-Assad, further complicated by ongoing violence against the Alawite community. Both countries are taking steps to address security concerns and the ramifications of recent mass killings, indicating a critical time for regional stability and cooperation.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
