Blinken Meets Iraq PM to Discuss Syria’s Future and Fight Against ISIL
Introduction
In a significant diplomatic move, United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Iraq Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani in Baghdad to discuss the future of Syria and the ongoing fight against ISIL. This unannounced visit marks the final stop of Blinken’s tour of the Middle East, following the recent collapse of President Bashar al-Assad’s government in Syria. The discussions focused on ensuring a smooth transition in Syria, reinforcing Iraq’s sovereignty, and preventing the resurgence of ISIL.
The Meeting in Baghdad
Blinken’s visit to the US embassy in Baghdad on Friday was a pivotal moment in his Middle East tour. The talks with Prime Minister al-Sudani centered on the future of Syria as it transitions from the Assad dictatorship to a hopeful democracy. Blinken emphasized the importance of protecting all minorities in Syria and establishing an inclusive, nonsectarian government.
Blinken highlighted the success of the United States and Iraq in dismantling the territorial caliphate created by Daesh years ago. He acknowledged Iraq’s critical role in this effort, given the ongoing presence of ISIS in Syria. Blinken reiterated the determination to ensure that Daesh cannot re-emerge
Syria’s Transition and Regional Stability
The opposition fighters who toppled al-Assad in Syria, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, have disavowed al-Qaeda and ISIL, stating they have no ambitions in Iraq. Despite Baghdad’s concerns about potential unrest spilling over the border, Iraq opted not to allow Shia rebel groups to intervene in Syria as the opposition forces advanced and ultimately seized Damascus
Blinken’s discussions with al-Sudani also touched on the broader implications for regional stability. He emphasized the need for Iraq to reinforce its sovereignty, stability, security, and success moving forward. The transition in Syria presents an opportunity for Iraq to strengthen its position and contribute to regional peace
Gaza Truce Talks and Turkiye’s Role
Before arriving in Baghdad, Blinken stopped in Turkiye, where he met with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The discussions in Turkiye focused on the imperative to work against a resurgence of ISIL. Erdogan assured Blinken that Turkiye would not ease up in the fight against ISIL in Syria, despite its operations against Kurdish fighters allied with the US in the fight against the group
Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan also expressed Turkiye’s commitment to ensuring stability in Syria as soon as possible and preventing ISIL fighters from gaining a foothold there. Blinken noted “encouraging signs” of progress towards a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and urged Turkiye to use its influence to encourage the Palestinian group Hamas to accept a proposed deal
Conclusion
Blinken’s visit to Baghdad and his discussions with Prime Minister al-Sudani underscore the United States’ commitment to supporting Syria’s transition to democracy and preventing the resurgence of ISIL. The talks highlighted the importance of regional cooperation and the need for inclusive, nonsectarian governance in Syria. As the Middle East navigates this critical period, the efforts of the US and its allies will be crucial in shaping a stable and secure future for the region.
