Iraq stresses need for continued U.S.-led coalition presence in Syria

BAGHDAD — Iraqi Defense Minister Thabet al-Abbasi has emphasized the importance of maintaining the U.S.-led coalition’s presence in neighboring Syria, citing ongoing threats posed by Islamic State (ISIS). 

In a recent televised interview with a Saudi news channel, Al-Abbasi emphasized the vital role of the U.S.-led coalition forces in countering the ISIS remnant cells in Syria. He stressed that this presence remains essential for the security of Iraq and the wider region, noting that Iraq’s national security is deeply interconnected with developments in Syria, particularly in light of the ongoing threat posed by ISIS militants operating across the border. 

Marking 11 years since ISIS took control of the Nineveh Governate, Al-Abbasi stated that the threat of the terrorist organization still exists. He specifically mentioned Al-Hol camp in northeastern Syria, which houses the families of ISIS militants, describing it as a constant threat to Iraq’s security and potential breeding ground for future extremism. 

Al-Abbasi revealed that Iraq, through Turkish mediation, has urged the Syrian government to shut down the camp. A major obstacle, he said, is the presence of foreign nationals—particularly from Europe—whose governments refuse to repatriate them. 

The minister also confirmed that cooperation with the international coalition remains ongoing and that Iraq has not received any formal notification about a full withdrawal of foreign forces. He noted that some military sites will be vacated and handed over to the Kurdistan Regional Government by the end of September. 

Al-Abbasi concluded by saying that Iraq has not been informed of any plans by the United States to expand or reduce its military presence in his country.