The two-year conflict between the Syrian insurgents (predominantly Sunni Muslim) and the Syrian Government (Assad and the minority Alawite sect) demonstrated the real possibility of this conflict spilling over into its neighboring states last week. The Iraqi government ordered a border crossing with Syria to be closed on Sunday after the insurgents seized the Syrian side of the frontier post that was formally under the control of the Syrian government. The fighting occurred in the Syrian town of Yaarabiya. This fighting so close to Iraqi borders demonstrate the possibility of the Syrian conflict spilling over into Iraq and dragging its neighboring countries into conflict as well and further destabilizing the region. The insurgents are supported by Turkey and the Gulf Arab states and Iran supports the Syrian government. Iraq declared to stay neutral in this conflict, but the Iraqi government interests are aligned with those of Iran. The Syrian conflict puts further pressure on the already precarious sectarian and ethnic balance in Iraq.
This fighting so close to Iraq demonstrates the real threat Iraq as well as its neighbors face in regards to the circumstances of the Syrian conflict with regards to the internal issues and tensions of their own state.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/03/03/us-iraq-syria-border-idUSBRE92206U20130303
It is always interesting to read about the effect revolutions have on bordering states. I'm surprised that Iraq has decided to remain neutral in the situation, given that it is one of Syria's border states as well as a member of the Arab League.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Hana, it seems quite surprising that Iraq is seeking neutrality in the conflict. The conflicts in Syria have escalated to the point of suggestions being made to submit war crimes to the International Criminal Court. However, if the support of neighbors is divided, this could make any sort of reform or the overthrowing of Assad much more difficult. The involvement of neighbors would make for an even stickier situation since the Syria is already in a state of civil war.
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