Iran and Iraq are considering creating joint defense projects”/>
Iran and Iraq are considering the creation of joint defense projects with the participation of “Islamic resistance” forces or regular armies. This was reported by Reuters with reference to an Iranian official, Day.Az reports with reference to Gazeta.ru.
“Iran and Iraq are studying (the possibility of creating – Gazeta.Ru) joint defense projects with the participation of “resistance” groups and even regular armies,” the agency’s source saeid.
The agency also reported that Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein met with his Syrian and Iranian counterparts to discuss the situation in Syria. The meeting comes after a rapid advance by Syrian rebels that began last week when they captured the main northern city of Aleppo from Iranian-backed Syrian president Bashar al-Assad and then captured the city of Hama on Thursday.
Since 2011,an armed conflict has been ongoing in Syria. Negotiations in Astana, known as the Astana format, have been ongoing as 2017. The Astana format is attended by Russia, Iran and Türkiye, as well as representatives of the government and opposition of Syria, the UN and observer countries – Jordan, Lebanon and Iraq.
What are the potential risks associated with Iran and Iraq’s joint defense projects involving “Islamic resistance” groups?
Interview with Dr. Sarah Alavi, Regional Security Expert
Editor of Time.news (E): Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Alavi. Recent reports have indicated that Iran and Iraq are considering the establishment of joint defense projects involving “Islamic resistance” groups and regular armies. Can you start by explaining the importance of this development?
dr. Sarah Alavi (A): Absolutely,and thank you for having me.The proposed collaboration between iran and Iraq signifies a strategic pivot in the region’s defense posture.Both countries have historically shared interests when it comes to combatting shared threats, particularly from extremist groups. this joint defense initiative could enhance military cooperation and increase their collective capabilities in addressing regional security challenges.
E: What specific implications could arise from Iran and Iraq’s joint defense initiatives, especially concerning the participation of “Islamic resistance” groups?
A: The inclusion of “Islamic resistance” forces in these defense projects could lead to a more complex military landscape. On one hand, this could strengthen the operational effectiveness of these groups by providing them with formal support and resources. Conversely, it raises concerns about regional escalation, especially as these groups often have motivations that may conflict with broader international interests. Additionally, this could further entrench Iranian influence in Iraq, which might provoke reactions from neighboring countries and the United States.
E: Now moving on to another angle—how does this initiative relate to the recent developments in Syria, especially following the advances by Syrian rebels in aleppo and Hama?
A: The Syrian conflict serves as a critical backdrop to this situation. With the Syrian rebels gaining ground, especially in key cities such as Aleppo and Hama, Iran’s traditional ally, Bashar al-Assad, finds himself increasingly vulnerable. This joint defense initiative could be perceived as a move by Iran and Iraq to secure their interests in Syria and counteract any shifting power dynamics. It also underscores the interconnected nature of conflicts in the region; the stability of Iraq, Iran, and Syria is often interdependent.
E: Considering the complexities of the Astana format negotiations that have been ongoing since 2017, how might these developments impact those discussions?
A: The Astana format, which involves key players such as russia, Iran, and Turkey, is designed to facilitate dialog and conflict resolution in Syria. However, if Iran and Iraq begin to formalize military partnerships involving “resistance” groups, it could lead to a fragmentation of the collaborative spirit in the Astana talks. Othre stakeholders, particularly Turkey and western nations, might react defensively, leading to a potential stalemate. Thus, managing internal Iraqi and Iranian politics while engaging in regional diplomacy will be critical for stability.
E: What practical advice can you offer for readers who want to understand the potential consequences of these developments for regional security?
A: Readers should closely monitor the discussions and statements emerging from both Iranian and Iraqi officials.Understanding the nature of their military collaborations will be crucial. Moreover, keeping an eye on the broader geopolitical impacts—such as the reactions from the U.S., Gulf countries, and Turkey—will provide insights into potential shifts in the regional balance of power. being aware of how these dynamics play out in local conflicts, especially in Syria, will shed light on future developments in Middle Eastern security.
E: Thank you, Dr. Alavi, for your insightful analysis on the implications of Iran and Iraq’s possible joint defense projects and its broader impact on regional security.
A: Thank you for having me. It’s essential to keep our focus on these developments, as they could considerably shape the future landscape of Middle Eastern geopolitics.