US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned that ongoing Middle Eastern conflicts may allow Daesh/ISIS to exploit instability and urged international partners to enhance security efforts. Speaking at the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS meeting, he highlighted the transition of operations in Iraq and emphasized the need for Iraq to take greater responsibility in combating ISIS, alongside maintaining US counterterrorism initiatives in Syria. Moreover, he addressed the urgent need for the repatriation of foreign fighters as a part of a sustainable solution in the region.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken addressed the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS on Monday, emphasizing that the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East could foster an environment conducive for Daesh/ISIS to expand their influence. In this context, he stated, “It’s more important than ever that we enhance our efforts to strengthen security and stability, including in Iraq and Syria, and prevent extremists like ISIS from exploiting conflict in the region for their own benefit.” He urged international partners to synchronize their efforts in ensuring security, particularly as the US-led coalition’s military operations against Daesh/ISIS in Iraq are set to conclude by September 2025. Blinken underscored the need for Iraq to assume greater responsibility in combating ISIS, fostering discussions about the transition of military operations and security partnerships, particularly as the coalition shifts towards providing more supportive roles. Additionally, he stated that the US will sustain its counterterrorism efforts in Syria for as long as necessary. Reintegration of foreign fighters and their families back into their home countries was also highlighted as a crucial agenda item during the ministerial meeting, which Blinken referred to as the “only durable solution” for addressing the humanitarian and security crisis in northeast Syria. The coalition, established in September 2014, consists of nearly 87 member countries united against the threat posed by Daesh/ISIS. The meeting convened in Washington, D.C., with representatives including Türkiye’s Deputy Foreign Minister Nuh Yilmaz, to strategize on the coalition’s next steps against Daesh/ISIS.
The United States spearheaded a global coalition in September 2014 to combat the rising threat of Daesh/ISIS in Iraq and Syria. This coalition aims to dismantle the operational capabilities of the terror group, which has sought to exploit regional conflicts to expand its influence and activities. The volatility in the Middle East necessitates vigilant international cooperation to avert the resurgence of extremist violence, particularly in light of the impending conclusion of direct military operations by the US-led coalition by 2025. The coalition includes approximately 87 member nations, reflecting a committed global stance against terrorism.
In conclusion, Secretary Blinken’s remarks underscore the pressing need for enhanced international collaboration to counter the threats posed by Daesh/ISIS amidst the tumultuous situation in the Middle East. As the US-led coalition transitions to a supportive role in Iraq, it is imperative for local governments to prioritize their own security responsibilities. Reintegration measures for foreign fighters and ongoing counterterrorism efforts in Syria will be integral to realizing lasting stability in the region.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
