US warns Iraq over aid to Hezbollah, regional escalation looms
Tom Barrack, the US envoy to Syria, has warned Iraq’s government against allowing Iran-backed militias in the nation to assist Hezbollah, as Israel threatens increased escalation against the Lebanese group, The New Arab and agencies reported on December 1st.
Barrack had a meeting with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani in Baghdad, where the two discussed recent events in Lebanon and Iraq’s purpose for stabilising Syria. An unnamed Iraqi government advisor claimed that Barrack called on Baghdad to stop groups providing military and financial aid to the Lebanese group.
The US continues to pressure Iraq’s government to dismantle armed factions linked to the Iran-backed Popular Mobilization Forces, who hold a presence in Iraq’s Shiite ruling class, and are allied with Hezbollah. Barrack also insisted that the Iraqi government remain on the sidelines in case of any escalation in the region.
The visit comes as Israel warns of escalating military operations against Hezbollah under the pretext of the group’s rearmament, and the Lebanese government’s failure to enforce disarmament. Tensions escalated as an Israeli strike in Lebanon led to the demise of senior Hezbollah commander, Haytham Ali Tabtabai. Hezbollah responded to the incident, though pledging commitment to upholding the ceasefire with Israel.
The discussion between Barrack and Sudani also focused on “practical ways in which Iraq can continue to support Syria’s stability, security, prosperity, and economic recovery”, the Iraqi Prime Minister’s Office said.
Another source claimed the visit intended to explain the Trump administration’s position on Syria and the situation in Lebanon.
“The Americans don’t want Iraq to interfere in the affairs of Syria or Lebanon, specifically the armed factions allied with Iran,” the anonymous source said.
The US has increasingly collaborated with Syria, particularly after a meeting between President Trump and Ahmed al-Sharaa in Washington.
The New Arab and agencies, Maghrebi.org
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