Iraq’s Unified Tribal Council in Basra is advocating for stronger security measures through the Popular Mobilization Forces due to increasing sectarian violence in Syria. They accuse Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan of supporting extremist factions responsible for civilian casualties. The council’s demands include stricter security vetting and legislative actions against figures inciting sectarianism. One group plans a protest to stand in solidarity with persecuted Shia communities.
The Unified Tribal Council of Basra, Iraq, has urged the government to bolster the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) in response to escalating unrest in Syria. During a recent press conference, they called for an effective governmental response citing rising tensions in Palestine, Lebanon, and attacks on Alawite communities in Syria. This unrest is viewed as part of a larger geopolitical struggle related to regional power changes and normalization efforts.
The council accused several regional powers, including Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan, of supporting extremist factions in Syria. They alleged that these factions, specifically those linked to transitional President Ahmad Al-Sharaa, have engaged in mass killings of unarmed civilians, facilitated by regional support and global silence on these actions.
Further, the council made several key demands to religious and political leaders, as well as Iraq’s three branches of government. These included stricter vetting of Syrian nationals in Iraq, legal consequences for individuals like Khamis al-Khanjar, and a cautious approach toward Al-Sharaa’s government. They also advocated for the passage of the PMF Service and Retirement Law to fortify the PMF’s activities.
Simultaneously, the Shia Followers of Ahl al-Bayt group scheduled a protest to show support for persecuted Shia communities in Syria. The demonstration, planned for Tuesday evening, also aims to signal readiness to combat extremist threats.
This move by the Tribal Council comes amidst a surge in sectarian violence in Syria, particularly against the Alawite community, with significant casualties reported in coastal areas since March 2025. Recent diplomatic talks have occurred between Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shibani and Iraqi officials, focusing on improved security coordination to combat the increasing presence of terrorist groups in Syria’s desert regions.
In conclusion, the Basra Tribes’ call for action reflects deep concerns over sectarian violence and geopolitical instability in the region. Their demands highlight the necessity for enhanced security measures, careful engagement with Syrian authorities, and cooperation among regional powers to address growing extremism. The planned protests further illustrate a commitment to solidarity within Shia communities, underscoring the widespread anxiety about the evolving situation in Syria.
Original Source: shafaq.com
