Iraqi lawmaker proposes 10% salary deduction to bolster army as Syria conflict grows

BAGHDAD — In response to the recent capture of Aleppo by Syrian opposition forces, Iraqi lawmaker Talib Al-Yasari has proposed a 10% salary deduction from all public sector employees to fund the nation’s military. He argues that this measure is essential to prepare Iraq for potential threats stemming from extremist factions near its borders.

Speaking on Al-Rasheed TV, Al-Yasari, a member of the parliamentary Security and Defense Committee, emphasized the gravity of the situation. “The dangers surrounding us demand immediate action, unity, and sacrifice. Allocating 10% of salaries would directly support our armed forces during this critical time,” he said.

Al-Yasari linked the urgency of the proposal to fears that extremist groups such as Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and other groups could destabilize Syria and pose a spillover threat to Iraq. “If these factions succeed in overthrowing the Syrian government, they will become a constant source of tension for Iraq, turning into a direct and dangerous neighbor,” he warned.

The lawmaker urged the government to prioritize defense spending in the upcoming budget, highlighting the need to maximize resources. “Every moment counts, and we must ensure our military is equipped to deal with any scenario,” Al-Yasari said. “This is about safeguarding our nation’s future, and sacrifices must be made.”

In a significant escalation of the Syrian conflict, opposition forces led by the Islamist Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham have captured Aleppo city, the entire Idlib province and are advancing into Hama. This offensive, which began on Noc. 27, 2024, has seen rebels swiftly overrun government defenses, seizing key towns and villages with minimal resistance. The rapid gains have raised concerns about the stability of President Bashar Al-Assad’s regime and the potential for further regional destabilization.

In response to these developments, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani held a telephone conversation with Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad. During the call, Al-Sudani expressed Iraq’s support for Syria and discussed enhancing joint efforts to combat terrorism.

Concurrently, Iraq has taken precautionary measures by closing its borders with Syria to prevent potential spillover of the conflict and to safeguard its national security.