U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned at the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS meeting that Daesh/ISIS could exploit Middle East conflicts to expand its influence. He called for increased international cooperation to maintain stability in the region, especially in Iraq and Syria, and highlighted the importance of transitioning security responsibilities to Iraqi forces as the coalition’s mission evolves. Discussions will also focus on the repatriation of foreign fighters and addressing humanitarian challenges in northeastern Syria.
On Monday, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken cautioned that the terrorist organization Daesh/ISIS may take advantage of ongoing conflicts in the Middle East to expand its influence and operations. Speaking at the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS ministerial meeting in Washington, he emphasized that the current volatility in the region necessitates enhanced international efforts to ensure security and stability, particularly in Iraq and Syria. Blinken stated, “It is more important than ever that we enhance our efforts to strengthen security and stability, including in Iraq and Syria, and prevent extremists like ISIS from exploiting conflict in the region for their own benefit.” He further noted that as the U.S.-led coalition’s military mission in Iraq is set to conclude by the end of September 2025, discussions must focus on transitioning operational responsibilities to the Iraqi government. The Secretary reiterated the importance of partnership with Iraq to sustain security collaboration, saying that Iraqi forces will assume greater responsibility for preventing ISIS from holding territory within their borders. He added that the U.S. would continue its counterterrorism operations in Syria as necessary. Additionally, repatriation of foreign fighters and their families was highlighted as a crucial topic during the ministerial meeting, identified as a durable solution to the humanitarian and security crises in northeast Syria. The Global Coalition to Defeat Daesh/ISIS, which was established in September 2014, includes participation from nearly 87 member countries and organizations and aims to combat the threat posed by the terror group. Notably, Türkiye was represented at the meeting by Deputy Foreign Minister Nuh Yilmaz, reflecting the coalition’s commitment to a unified approach against terrorism.
The ongoing conflicts in the Middle East have created an unstable environment, which terrorist organizations like Daesh/ISIS are poised to exploit for their aims. Since its formation in 2014, the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS has been actively engaged in military operations against the group in Iraq and Syria. As the U.S. military mission in Iraq approaches its conclusion, discussions are critical regarding the responsibilities of the Iraqi government in maintaining territorial integrity against Daesh/ISIS threats, while also addressing humanitarian issues related to foreign fighters and their families.
In summary, Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s remarks underscore the pressing need for enhanced international efforts to combat the potential resurgence of Daesh/ISIS amidst the volatile backdrop of the Middle East. While the U.S.-led coalition prepares for a transition regarding its military presence in Iraq, it is pivotal that Iraqi authorities are equipped and empowered to manage security independently. Furthermore, addressing the humanitarian crises related to foreign fighters remains a key aspect of the coalition’s strategy moving forward.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
