Al-Jolani Calls For Iraq’s Neutral Stance In Syrian Civil War

Red emergency light glowing in darkness.

Amid the chaos of Syria’s ongoing civil conflict, the voice of Abu Mohammad al-Jolani echoes, challenging Iraq to distance itself from the turmoil.

At a Glance

The war in Syria has reignited amid broader Middle East turmoil following attacks in the region.
Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), led by Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, launched a significant offensive.
al-Jolani urges Iraq to remain neutral amidst calls for military involvement with Syria.
The conflict’s resurgence threatens regional stability and security.
Iranian influence and alliances are under strain due to the ongoing conflict dynamics.

Escalation in Syria

Syria’s decade-long conflict, stagnating for years, has seen renewed violence. The volatile Middle East region witnessed increased tensions after attacks, particularly concerning the Assad regime’s survival, aided by Russia, Iran, and Hezbollah. Iran’s weakening due to Israeli strikes and Russia’s focus on Ukraine has shifted dynamics. Despite reduced media coverage, the conflict has never fully ended, resurfacing with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) capturing strategic areas like Aleppo.

The rise of HTS, distancing itself from its al-Qaeda roots, has shifted the political landscape in northern Syria. Various groups vie for control; HTS’s offensive indicates fragmentation and chaos. A potential regime counterattack looms, raising international concern. The UN has repeatedly stressed the necessity for a political resolution, highlighting the unimplemented UN Security Council resolution 2254 calling for a peaceful Syrian future.

Iraq’s Dilemma

Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, HTS’s head, implores Iraq to stay neutral. With Iraq’s border abutting Syria, entanglement in the conflict poses risks. Iraq’s Kataeb Hezbollah, aligned with Iran, urged Baghdad to support Syria’s government militarily. However, Iraq’s involvement, notably through its Hashed al-Shaabi, integrated into its armed forces, remains contentious.

“The latest developments pose severe risks to civilians and have serious implications for regional and international security… No Syrian party or existing group of actors can resolve the Syrian conflict via military means,” said Geir Pedersen, UN envoy to Syria.

Iraq has fortified its Syria border with armored units, linking its security to Syria’s stability. Amidst conflicting interests, some factions deny involvement beyond Iraq, striving to maintain distance. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani and influential cleric Moqtada Sadr echoed calls for neutrality, wary of the Islamic State’s resurgence. Reports of pro-Iranian Iraqi fighters entering Syria complicate the delicate balance.

Geopolitical Implications

The renewed Syrian conflict has broader geopolitical implications. Iraqi neutrality could preserve stability in an already tense region. However, entanglement risks exacerbating tensions, impacting relationships and alliances throughout the Middle East. As Iraq grapples with history and geopolitical pressure, its actions can tilt the balance, influencing regional security and future alliances.

Al-Jolani’s plea underscores the need for Iraqi caution. In a region where the stakes are high, every move counts. The intertwined fate of Syria and Iraq remains a critical focus for observers and involved entities, as strategic decisions now may shape the region’s future for years to come.