Syria situation impacts Iraq’s security, says PMF head

Faleh Al-Fayyad, head of Iraq’s Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF), announced increased reinforcements along the Syrian-Iraqi border yesterday evening, stating that the PMF remains solely within Iraq and has not entered Syria. This comes after reports that hundreds of Iraqi fighters have entered Syria to help the government fight rebels who seized Aleppo last week.

“What is happening in Syria has direct repercussions on Iraqi national security,” Al-Fayyad warned, cautioning against any attempt to encroach on Iraq.

The deputy speaker of Iraq’s parliament also called for enhanced intelligence coordination with Syria and other countries, stressing the need for pre-emptive strikes to deter terrorist infiltration. “Iraq has the right to defend its national security… under Iraqi and international law,” he said.

President Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid, meanwhile, reaffirmed Baghdad’s commitment to regional stability during a meeting with the Syrian Ambassador Sattam Jadaan Al-Dandah. “We in Iraq are keen on preserving the security and stability of our neighbour, Syria, and stand ready to provide any necessary support to ensure lasting peace in the region,” Rashid stated.

Muhannad Al-Aqabi, head of the PMF’s media directorate, echoed these concerns, noting that “what is happening in Syria is a source of concern not only for Iraq but for the entire region.” He added that “We are taking all necessary measures to protect the security of the Iraqi people and secure our borders.”

Iraq’s recent military reinforcements reflect growing fears of instability spilling over from Syria, where the Syrian army continues to battle militant groups across Hama, Idlib and Aleppo. According to Al-Mayadeen, citing a source from the Axis of Resistance’s factions, reinforcements from Syria’s allies in the region have reached the frontlines north and east of Hama, extending to the southern frontlines of Aleppo governorate.

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