Iraqi FM warns ISIS gaining strength after seizing weapons from Syrian depots

On December 19, Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein warned that ISIS is regaining strength after seizing weapons from abandoned Syrian military depots, heightening security risks in the region.

In a phone call with UK Minister of State for the Middle East and North Africa, Hamish Falconer, Hussein expressed concern that the terror group is using the seized weapons to expand its territorial control in both Syria and Iraq, Caliber.Az reports via Iranian media.

Hussein also raised alarms over the escape of ISIS militants from prisons and deteriorating conditions in Syria's Al-Hol camp, which he said could further destabilize the region. "The worsening situation could directly impact security in both Syria and Iraq," Hussein stated.

The Iraqi minister called for international support to rebuild Syria's political process, stressing the need for inclusive representation of all societal groups. He also urged continued humanitarian aid to address the suffering of the Syrian people.

Falconer, in response, welcomed the outcomes of the recent Aqaba meetings, in which the UK participated, and highlighted the importance of ongoing discussions to stabilize the situation in Syria.

He expressed concern over rising tensions between various factions and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), warning that further internal conflict could worsen the crisis.

Syria has been embroiled in a decade-long civil war, with President Bashar al-Assad's government battling opposition forces and extremist groups such as ISIS. The collapse of Assad's government on December 8, 2024, has created a power vacuum, allowing ISIS to regain strength by capturing abandoned military arsenals.

The ongoing Israeli airstrike campaign has further complicated the situation, with over 350 strikes targeting Syria's military infrastructure, including airfields and weapons production sites.

This has left Syria’s transitional government, led by Prime Minister Mohammed al-Bashir, struggling to restore stability and address mounting humanitarian and security challenges.

By Aghakazim Guliyev