Iraqi PM: Iran’s involvement in Syria comes on request of Assad government, primarily to combat terrorism

During an official visit to London on Tuesday, Iraqi Prime Minister Sudani provided commentary on the current situation in Syria and addressed the dynamics of Iran-Iraq relations in an interview with the BBC.

He stated that they maintain a strong stance opposing any foreign meddling in Arab nations. However, he noted that Iran’s involvement in Syria during President Bashar al-Assad’s tenure occurred at the behest of the Damascus government, as they sought assistance to address terrorism and the Daesh threat.

Sudani underscored the necessity for the administration of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham in Syria to disavow terrorism and extremism, uphold human rights, and maintain independence, avoiding becoming an instrument of any foreign entity.

The Iraqi Prime Minister has labeled certain claims regarding Iran’s influence in Iraq as “Iranophobia.” He emphasized that these assertions are overstated, and highlighted that Tehran supported Baghdad during its fight against terrorism, which, he noted, had infiltrated through Syria.

‘A Key Strategic Partner’

He further stated that the relationship between Iran and Iraq is founded on mutual respect, emphasizing Tehran’s significant role as a key ally to Baghdad.

He stated that Iraq exercises full independence in its decision-making processes, free from external influences, including those from Iran or any other nation.

Prior to his visit to London, Sudani traveled to Tehran, the Iranian capital, as part of efforts to enhance bilateral cooperation and communications between the two nations.

The official’s visit to Iran coincides with a period of instability in Syria, one of Iraq’s immediate neighbors. This turmoil follows the fall of President Bashar al-Assad and the subsequent takeover by the militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).