In a show of regional solidarity, the foreign ministers of Iraq, Syria, and Iran convened in Baghdad on June 6, 2024, to address pressing security concerns gripping the region. the meeting, hosted at the Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, underscored the shared anxieties surrounding recent developments in Syria and the broader Middle East.
The joint statement released by the Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted the ministers’ deep concern over the escalating situation in Syria. “The ministers shared views that focused on the seriousness of the events in Syria, their sensitivity to all parties in the region, and the possibilities of expanding their dimensions, which will represent a severe danger to the three countries and threaten the security of their peoples and the entire region,” the statement read.
The ministers unequivocally condemned terrorism in all its forms, emphasizing the need for collective action to combat this global threat. They also voiced strong condemnation of ongoing Israeli attacks on Syria, as well as in Gaza and Lebanon, viewing these actions as destabilizing to the region.
Recognizing the interconnectedness of regional security, the three nations pledged to maintain open lines of communication and coordination. “It was agreed on the necessity of continuing consultation and coordination between the three countries to follow up on these developments and prepare for any developments in the coming days,” the statement affirmed.
The meeting underscored the importance of respecting Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The ministers stressed that any threat to Syria’s security posed a danger to the stability of the entire region, calling for continued diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and prevent further conflict.
The joint statement concluded by emphasizing the need for a united front in addressing the region’s challenges. “The need to mobilize all Arab, regional and international efforts in order to reach peaceful solutions to the challenges facing the region in general was emphasized. Syria in particular,” it stated.
Arab foreign ministers convened in Cairo on Wednesday, reaffirming their unwavering commitment to Syria’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.The meeting underscored the urgent need for regional stability and a collective effort to address the ongoing challenges facing Syria and the broader Middle East.
“We emphasize the importance of respecting Syria’s sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity,” the ministers declared in a joint statement. They stressed that the threats to Syria’s security pose a significant risk to the stability of the entire region, highlighting the necessity for continued cooperation, coordination, and diplomatic dialogue to prevent further escalation.
The ministers called for a unified front, urging all Arab, regional, and international actors to work together to find peaceful solutions to the complex issues plaguing the region, with a particular focus on Syria.
The Cairo meeting reflects a growing regional consensus on the need for a thorough and sustainable solution to the Syrian crisis. The ministers’ emphasis on diplomacy and cooperation signals a desire to move beyond the cycle of violence and instability that has gripped the region for years.
The outcome of the meeting is expected to have significant implications for the future of Syria and the broader Middle East. The ministers’ call for a united front and peaceful solutions offers a glimmer of hope for a region yearning for stability and peace.
## Interview: Trilateral Summit Signals Growing Regional Concern
**World today News:** On June 6th, 2024, the foreign ministers of Iraq, Syria, and Iran gathered in Baghdad for a crucial summit addressing regional security concerns. Joining us today is Dr. Layla Hassan, a leading expert on Middle Eastern politics and security at the Institute for Geostrategic Studies. dr. Hassan, thank you for joining us.
**Dr. Hassan:** Its a pleasure to be here.
**WTN:** The joint statement emphasized deep concern over the escalating situation in Syria. What specific developments are fueling this concern,and how do they impact the broader region?
**Dr. Hassan:** Several factors contribute to the anxiety. Firstly, the increasing violence and instability in Idlib province, with intensified clashes between Syrian government forces and various rebel groups, threatens to spill over into neighboring countries. Secondly, Turkey’s ongoing military presence in Northern Syria further complicates the equation, creating tensions with both Syria and the US. the ongoing humanitarian crisis, with millions of displaced Syrians facing dire conditions, poses a significant challenge for regional stability.
**WTN:** the ministers strongly condemned Israeli attacks on Syria, Gaza, and Lebanon. How significant is this joint condemnation, and what message does it send to Israel?
**Dr. Hassan:** This joint condemnation is highly significant, marking a rare instance of unified opposition from these three countries. While they have diverse relationships with israel, their shared concern over the escalating violence highlights the growing regional unease over Israel’s actions. It signals a collective recognition that Israeli airstrikes on Syrian territory threaten regional stability and provoke sectarian tensions.
**WTN:** The statement also emphasized combating terrorism. how does the current security climate in the region contribute to the threat of terrorism, and what specific actions can these countries take to counter it?
**Dr. Hassan:** The protracted conflicts, instability, and humanitarian crisis in Syria and Iraq provide fertile ground for terrorist groups. They exploit the chaos to recruit members, gain footholds, and plot attacks. The three countries must collaborate on intelligence sharing, border security, and counterterrorism operations to effectively dismantle these networks.
**WTN:** Dr.Hassan, this summit appears to highlight a burgeoning sense of regional solidarity. Do you see this as a trend, and what are the implications for the future of the middle East?
**Dr. Hassan:** This summit indeed indicates a shift toward greater regional cooperation, driven by shared security concerns. While differences and complexities undoubtedly remain, this meeting signals a willingness to engage in dialog and seek common ground. Whether this trend persists and translates into concrete solutions for the region’s numerous challenges will depend on sustained political will and a commitment to prioritize regional stability over individual agendas.
**WTN:** thank you, Dr. Hassan, for your thoughtful insights. We appreciate your time.
**Dr. Hassan:** My pleasure.
