Syrian refugees, including military personnel, enter Iraq as Damascus falls

According to the security source who spoke to local media, "The number of Syrians who have entered Iraq ranges between 500 to 700 people, including soldiers, officers, and civilian customs employees."

Iraq-Syria border crossing. (Photo: AFP)
Iraq-Syria border crossing. (Photo: AFP)

Dec. 8, 2024

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - Iraqi security sources reported on Sunday that Syrian civilians, military personnel, and government employees have crossed into Iraqi territory amid the unfolding crisis in Syria.

According to the security source who spoke to local media, "The number of Syrians who have entered Iraq ranges between 500 to 700 people, including soldiers, officers, and civilian customs employees."

The source further revealed that "The total number of Syrians who have crossed the border since Saturday has reached 2,500 people." Additionally, "Due to the deteriorating situation in Syria, 1,500 Syrian soldiers have entered Iraq through the al-Qaim border crossing."

These developments come as opposition forces reportedly took control of Damascus, while Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has fled to an unknown location.