Sadr Calls on Iraqi Government to ‘Punish Those Interfering in Syria’

Iraqi Shia leader Muqtada al-Sadr emphasized the “necessity of non-interference in Syria” and urged Baghdad to “punish anyone disrupting security.”

In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday, Sadr stated that he is closely monitoring the situation in neighboring Syria. He expressed solidarity with the Syrian people, saying, “We pray for their freedom, regardless of sect, and hope God protects them from calamities, terrorism, oppression, and external interventions.”

Sadr’s statement coincided with Syrian opposition forces capturing two major cities. Avoiding direct criticism of the Syrian government, Sadr reiterated, “We maintain our stance of non-interference in Syrian affairs and support the people’s right to determine their own destiny.”

He also cautioned against falling into “the schemes of the U.S., Israel, Britain, and their allies, aiming to destroy religion, unity, and foster division.”

Sadr called on Iraq’s government, people, and all entities, including militias and security forces, to refrain from meddling in Syria, urging Baghdad to “punish those who violate security” and warning against past behaviors of involvement in Syria’s affairs.

Earlier on Thursday, Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, appealed to Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani to “keep Iraq out of the Syrian conflict and prevent Popular Mobilization Forces from supporting the Syrian army.”

Meanwhile, Iraq’s Islamic Dawa Party called for “prudent engagement with regional and international developments” and urged Iraqi political forces to “rise to the challenges to safeguard national achievements,” referencing the Syrian crisis.

On Tuesday, reports in Baghdad suggested that an intelligence assessment warned Iraqi actors against involvement in Syria’s ongoing battles, stating that “entanglement in Syria could lead to swift regional repercussions.”

The assessment concluded that “current Syrian conflicts pose neither a direct interest nor an immediate threat to Iraq, but vigilance is required.”

Syrian sources had reported earlier that convoys carrying armed Iraqi personnel entered Syrian territories near Al-Bukamal and were subsequently targeted by unidentified airstrikes near Al-Mayadin.