U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s visit to Baghdad highlighted the urgent need for a stable and inclusive Syrian government. He emphasized the importance of respecting human rights, including the rights of women and minorities, and ensuring that Syria does not become a haven for terrorism or a threat to its neighbors. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani supported these goals, stressing that Syria’s stability depends on a government that represents all its people. Both leaders underscored the deep connections between Syria’s future and the security of the region as a whole.
At a meeting of Arab foreign ministers in Aqaba, Jordan, Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein reiterated that Syria’s stability is essential to Iraq’s security. He warned against allowing Syria to descend into chaos like Libya, highlighting the interconnected nature of challenges in the region. The discussions reflected a collective understanding among Arab nations that unresolved conflict in Syria could have widespread repercussions for neighboring countries.
Some experts argue that Iraq’s internal issues, particularly the presence of militias, are more pressing than the potential fallout from Syria. Professor Mohammad Rauf highlighted the threat posed by these groups, many of which are supported by external powers like Iran. He warned that if unchecked, these militias could provoke actions from Israel, adding to Iraq’s vulnerabilities. The United States has also pressured Iraq to address these militias, seeing them as a major obstacle to stability.
Blinken Pushes for Syrian Stability Amid Regional Turmoil and Calls for Inclusive Governance
The Kurdish regions in Iraq and Syria face unique pressures in this broader context. Analysts have criticized the Kurds for their lack of unity and strategic planning, which has often weakened their ability to take advantage of key opportunities. Despite the potential for progress in the current regional upheaval, Kurdish disunity risks undermining their chances of achieving greater autonomy and rights. This disorganization has long been a barrier to securing their political goals.
Dr. Mohammad Ihsan described the turmoil in Iraq and Syria as part of a broader transformation in the Middle East, calling it the emergence of a “new map.” He emphasized the role of Iran’s influence through the “Shiite crescent” and the responses from global and regional powers. These shifting dynamics illustrate the complexities of the challenges faced by Iraq, Syria, and their allies as they try to balance internal and external pressures.
The crises in Syria and Iraq also expose deeper systemic flaws within the region, such as weak governance and the absence of consistent respect for human rights. Analysts believe that Iraq’s current political system is unsustainable and must undergo significant reform to achieve stability. This includes addressing internal divisions, uniting its diverse communities, and creating a government that is inclusive and representative. Similar reforms are necessary across the region to break cycles of conflict and foster stability.
This moment represents a critical juncture for the Middle East. Leaders and marginalized groups alike must seize the opportunity to address deep-rooted issues and set the foundation for a more stable future. For the Kurds, in particular, this is a rare chance to solidify their role in the region. However, failure to act decisively risks entrenching existing problems and diminishing the prospects for meaningful progress. Strategic cooperation and a shared vision will be essential in shaping the region’s trajectory.
