Iraqi officials are increasingly concerned about the spillover effects of escalating violence in Syria, particularly following the seizure of Aleppo by rebel forces. Iraqi Prime Minister al-Sudani affirmed Iraq’s commitment to security, while reports indicate Iranian-backed militias are mobilizing near the border. Iraqi military authorities are enhancing security measures amid fears of a resurgence of the Islamic State, and coordination with U.S.-backed forces is being improved.
Concerns are intensifying in Iraq regarding the spillover effects from escalating violence in Syria, particularly following the recent capture of Aleppo by rebel forces. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani emphasized in a conversation with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan that Iraq will actively engage in addressing the significant developments in Syria to safeguard its own security.
Iraqi officials, including Prime Minister al-Sudani, have expressed their support for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad as he faces pressures from rebel forces. Reports suggest that Iranian-backed Iraqi militias, especially the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), are moving closer to the Syrian border to aid the Assad government. However, Rasha al Aqeedi from the Arab Gulf States Institute stated, “official statements and verified footage indicate Iraqi forces have moved en masse to the borders, but nothing yet shows that any factions have actually entered Syria.”
Despite claims from PMF leaders and other officials denying any presence in Syria, Iraqi military authorities are taking precautions. The country, which shares a 600-kilometer border with Syria, is wary of the resurgence of the Islamic State, which might exploit any instability. Security measures are being enhanced, particularly in the Nineveh Province, where thermal security cameras have been installed along the border.
Coordination with Kurdish-led, U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) is being strengthened to share intelligence about potential threats. Saif al-Saadi, an Iraqi affairs analyst, highlighted Iraq’s constitutional limitations regarding military involvement in Syria, noting, “according to Article 8 of the Iraqi constitution, Iraq must adhere to neighborly relations and not interfere in the internal affairs of other countries.” This legal obligation emphasizes Iraq’s complex position amid ongoing conflict in Syria.
In conclusion, Iraq is experiencing heightened anxiety about the implications of the Syrian conflict, particularly related to security along its borders. Iraqi officials are prepared to address these challenges while adhering to constitutionally mandated principles of non-interference and peaceful conflict resolution.
The situation in Syria has direct implications for its neighboring country, Iraq. With the recent advancements of rebel forces in Syria, particularly in Aleppo, Iraqi officials are increasingly concerned about the potential repercussions on Iraq’s fragile security state. Over the years, primarily due to the Syrian civil conflict, Iraq has maintained close ties with Syria and Iran, which complicates its security strategies and decisions against threats like the Islamic State.
Given the ongoing violence in Syria, Iraq must navigate a precarious balance between securing its borders and adhering to constitutional mandates that discourage interference in neighboring countries’ affairs. Strengthening security measures in response to possible threats remains a top priority for Iraqi officials, yet it is essential for Iraq to avoid actions that could exacerbate regional tensions. The cooperation with Kurdish forces further signifies Iraq’s commitment to collective security while upholding its legal responsibilities.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
