First Iraqi delegation meets new Syrian leadership following the fall of Bashar Al-Assad

NEWSROOM — An Iraqi delegation led by Intelligence Chief Hamid Al-Shatri met with Syria’s new leadership in Damascus, marking the first official Iraqi security visit since the fall of the Assad regime on Dec. 8.

The ruling General Command released photos on Thursday showing Al-Shatri meeting with Ahmed Al-Shara, de facto leader of Syria’s new administration, alongside Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shibani and Syrian Intelligence Chief Anas Khattab.

“An Iraqi delegation, led by Intelligence Chief Hamid Al-Shatri, met with Syria’s new administration to discuss recent developments in Syria and the mutual security and stability needs at our shared border,” Iraqi government spokesperson Basim Al-Awadi told the Iraqi News Agency on Thursday.

The visit comes after Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani announced the reopening of Iraq’s diplomatic mission in Damascus, marking a symbolic and strategic return after the embassy staff had been relocated to Lebanon following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime on Dec. 8.

“Iraq is committed to maintaining open lines of communication with Syria’s new leadership to ensure regional stability,” Al-Sudani said during the announcement.

On Dec. 19, Iraq’s Joint Operations Command announced the return of 1,905 Syrian military officers and personnel to Syrian authorities. These individuals had sought refuge in Iraq days before the regime fell.

Syrian rebels launched a swift and unexpected offensive culminating in the capture of Damascus and the ousting of President Bashar Al-Assad. The Iraqi government, led by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, responded with measured concern, emphasizing the importance of regional stability and the security of its borders. Iraq’s Joint Operations Command increased military presence along the Syrian border to prevent potential spillover of violence and to safeguard against extremist infiltration. Despite internal pressures from various political factions and armed groups advocating for intervention, the Iraqi leadership refrained from direct involvement.

On Dec. 8, Bassem Al-Awadi reiterated Iraq’s commitment to a policy of non-interference, stating, “Iraq supports all international and regional efforts seeking to open a dialogue for Syria.”

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