Iraq’s intel chief in Syria to strengthen regional security, prevent armed factions PHOTO

A high-level delegation from the Iraqi National Intelligence Service (INIS), led by chief Hamid Al-Shatri, arrived at the People's Palace in Damascus earlier on December 26 to meet with Syria's new administration.

The delegation's visit is focused on reaffirming Iraq's commitment to non-interference in Syria’s internal affairs, according to a source who spoke on condition of anonymity, Caliber.Az reports.

The source told Shafaq News that the Iraqi government intends to prevent armed Iraqi factions from intervening in Syria, on the condition that armed groups within Syria avoid crossing into Iraq and that the borders are effectively secured on Syria's side.

The source also highlighted that the Iraqi government and political factions are particularly focused on ensuring Syria’s security and stability. The delegation is expected to discuss a variety of shared interests, including the protection of all Syrian communities, with a special emphasis on safeguarding minorities and respecting the rights of the Shia community and its symbols.

In addition, the source noted that Al-Shatri would express Iraq’s "genuine concern" over the potential escape or smuggling of ISIS members from Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) prisons near the Iraqi border.

The issue of security and military coordination between Iraq and the Syrian Ministry of Defence, which is set to be restructured under the new administration, will also be on the agenda.

The delegation is also expected to share Iraq’s security expertise and strategies for ensuring regional stability.

According to the source, Iraq's engagement with Syria's new government follows international pressures, particularly from the United States, which has urged Baghdad to establish ties with Damascus and align with recent developments, as other regional countries have done.

By Aghakazim Guliyev