Iraqi intelligence uncovers ‘Turkish military involvement’ in northern Syria offensive

BAGHDAD – Sources in Iraqi intelligence say it has developed a comprehensive understanding of the ongoing conflict in Syria, including the alleged presence of Turkish operatives in northern regions, according to sources close to the Iraqi government.

The sources revealed that Baghdad has detected heightened activity by Turkish military intelligence in northern Syria, including Turkish officers operating within a command room led by Abu Mohammad Al-Julani, the leader of Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham. In comments to 964media, the sources emphasized that Iraqi intelligence has constructed a “complete picture” of the situation, drawing from both longstanding and newly developed sources within various Syrian factions. This effort, they noted, builds on expertise accumulated during Iraq’s strategic involvement in combating ISIS.

In late November, Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham, an Islamist rebel group, along with other opposition groups, launched a surprise offensive in northwestern Syria, capturing significant territories, including parts of Aleppo, Idlib and Hama. This rapid advance marked a substantial shift in the prolonged Syrian conflict, as HTS and allied factions seized over 50 towns and villages, encountering minimal resistance from pro-government forces.

“Iraq has maintained significant connections with key players in the Syrian theater over the years,” one source said. “This has made us one of the most experienced countries in understanding the dynamics of the Syrian conflict, particularly given our past operations to neutralize threats targeting Iraq’s national security within Syrian territory.”

The sources further highlighted the role played by Iraqi intelligence and elite forces in operations over the years, including disrupting kidnappings, thwarting attacks, and containing movements that posed risks to Iraqi security. These efforts extended even during periods of relative stability within Iraq.

While the sources declined to confirm whether Iraq maintains direct channels to provide continuous updates on Syrian battlefield developments, they reiterated that Iraqi armed forces currently possess an “unparalleled understanding” of the shifting military and intelligence dynamics. This includes Turkey’s involvement and the scope of Syrian opposition groups engaged in the conflict following the ceasefire agreement reached in Lebanon.

In response to these developments, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani held a telephone conversation with Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad. Concurrently, Iraq has taken precautionary measures by closing its borders with Syria to prevent potential spillover of the conflict.