Iraq Returns Almost 2,000 Syrian Soldiers Amid Ongoing Conflict
BAGHDAD – In a significant move, Iraq has returned close to 2,000 Syrian soldiers to Syria after they had fled to Iraq seeking safety during the recent upheaval in their country. This decision comes following the rapid advance of rebel forces that led to the fall of President Bashar al-Assad earlier this month.
According to a statement from the Iraqi military, the soldiers were sent back at their own request through a border crossing between Iraq and Syria.
The statement noted, “In coordination with certain groups on the Syrian side, we have legally handed over 1,905 Syrian officers and soldiers to a protection unit at the Al-Qaim border crossing.”
It was also mentioned that the soldiers’ weapons would remain with the Iraqi defense ministry and would be transferred to a newly established Syrian government once it is formed.
In related news, the United Nations has called for an immediate halt to Israeli bombardments in Syria.
The Syrian soldiers had crossed into Iraq shortly before a group of rebels, led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, took over the capital, Damascus, on December 8, prompting President Assad to seek refuge in Russia.
Following the takeover, Sharaa’s leadership has established a caretaker government, appointing Mohammad al-Bashir as prime minister until March.
The Iraqi military highlighted that the returning soldiers had expressed their desire to be included in an amnesty program put forth by the new Syrian authorities.
The statement went on to appeal to the current Syrian government, urging them to care for the returning officers and soldiers, include them in the amnesty, and facilitate their reunion with their families, in adherence to human rights standards and to build trust.
