New details emerge about Iraqi Intelligence Chief's visit to Syria
A source told Iraqi media that after the official talks, both sides talked about several detained members of armed groups in Damascus, with expectations of their release by Syria's new authorities.
Dec. 30, 2024
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - According to multiple sources, new information has surfaced about a high-level meeting in Damascus that included talks about the potential release of imprisoned militants.
On Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024, an Iraqi delegation led by Hamid al-Shatri, the Iraqi National Intelligence Service (INIS) Head, visited Damascus for meetings with Ahmed Al-Shara, Commander of Syria's New Administration.
While both sides have remained rather quiet about the meeting's details, leaked information suggests that "armed groups" were a chief topic of discussion.
A source told Iraqi media that after the official talks, both sides talked about several detained members of armed groups in Damascus, with expectations of their release by Syria's new authorities.
The meeting also highlighted border security between Iraq and Syria, as well as the recovery of the remains of Iraqis who had died in Syria, with renewed importance placed on efforts to locate these remains.
The Iraqi Parliament's Security and Defense Committee is set to summon al-Shatri to present the outcomes of the visit when the legislative session resumes.
Iraqi media outlets have reported that the delegation's visit was done under U.S. pressure and intended to align Iraq with Syria's new political reality.
This context helps explain the Iraqi Prime Minister's statement that "we respect the decision of the Syrian people."
This diplomatic engagement comes during a period of a momentous political shift in Syria's political landscape and regional dynamics.