Jordan and Syria have established a joint security committee to enhance border security and combat arms and drug smuggling while preventing the resurgence of the Islamic State. The agreement follows concerns regarding the mass production of captagon in Syria and aims to fortify mutual security interests. Jordan has also conducted airstrikes against militias related to the drug trade.
Jordan and Syria have entered into an agreement to establish a joint security committee aimed at fortifying their border security, addressing the issues of arms and drug smuggling, and preventing the resurgence of the Islamic State group. This initiative was announced by Jordan’s Foreign Minister, Ayman Safadi, during a press conference held jointly with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani.
The illicit production of captagon, a widely abused stimulant drug, has become a significant concern, as it is reportedly being mass-produced in Syria and smuggled through Jordan en route to oil-rich Gulf states. In response, the Jordanian military has executed multiple pre-emptive airstrikes in Syrian territory, targeting groups alleged to have connections with the drug trade and their facilities.
Minister Safadi emphasized the unity of security interests shared by Jordan and Syria, stating, “We discussed securing the borders, especially the threat of arms and drugs smuggling and the resurgence of Islamic State. Our security is one, we will coordinate together to combat these mutual challenges.” On the other hand, Minister al-Shibani reassured that drug smuggling would not pose a significant threat to Jordan under the leadership of Syria’s current Islamist authorities.
This collaboration comes at a critical time as both nations aim to address the dual threats of drug trafficking and extremist violence that have the potential to destabilize their regions significantly.
The relationship between Jordan and Syria has been historically complex, however, recent geopolitical changes have necessitated cooperation between the two nations. Jordan has been significantly impacted by the challenges posed by the ongoing civil conflict in Syria, particularly in terms of border security and the influx of drugs. The rise of the Islamic State group has further exacerbated these issues, prompting Jordan to act proactively to ensure its national security. The emergence of captagon as a major threat is alarming for both countries, making joint efforts imperative to dismantle drug smuggling networks and counter extremist activities.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Jordan and Syria marks a pivotal step in addressing the intertwined issues of arms and drug trafficking, alongside mitigating the threats from the Islamic State group. The establishment of a joint security committee signifies a commitment to shared security interests and collaborative strategies, especially amid growing concerns regarding drug-related violence and extremism in the region. Continuous monitoring and coordinated efforts will be essential for the success of this initiative.
Original Source: www.jpost.com