Syria’s Foreign Minister warns of regional security threats during visit to Iraq

Syrian Foreign Minister Bassam Sabbagh arrived in Baghdad on Thursday evening amid escalating conflict in Syria, with rebel factions gaining control of Hama and nearing the outskirts of Homs.

During his visit, Sabbagh met with Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein to discuss the security developments in Syria and avenues for joint cooperation. Hussein expressed Iraq's deep concern over the situation, highlighting the potential impact on regional stability and security.

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Sabbagh warned of the broader regional threats posed by the current situation, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to safeguard regional security.

On Friday, foreign ministers from Iraq, Iran, and Syria convened in Baghdad to address the ongoing crisis in Syria. Iraqi officials reaffirmed their commitment to Syria's territorial integrity.

Escalating Conflict

The visit follows significant advances by Syrian armed groups, which have claimed control over Hama and much of its northern countryside, while pushing closer to Homs.

According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the clashes—the most intense since 2020—have resulted in at least 826 fatalities among civilians and combatants.

Last week, Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and allied factions launched a surprise offensive in Aleppo, claiming full control of the city.

Meanwhile, a Syrian military source confirmed on Friday targeted strikes on militant vehicles and gatherings in northern and southern rural Hama.