Iraqi leaders issue calculated response to Assad's fall

In its first official reaction since the toppling of the Assad regime, the Iraqi government emphasized its respect for "the will of the Syrian people" and announced its opposition to any foreign interference. Government spokesperson Basim Al-Awadi stated that Iraq is closely monitoring developments in Syria and is cooperating with other countries to promote “efforts towards stability, safeguard public order, and protect the lives and property of the Syrian people.”

The statement underscored the necessity of respecting the free will of all Syrians and stressed that the security, territorial integrity, and independence of Syria are of paramount importance—not just for Iraq but for the stability of the entire region.

Awadi highlighted the government’s support for international and regional efforts to initiate a dialogue in Syria that would lead to establishing “a pluralistic constitution that upholds human and civil rights." He added that such a constitution should support Syria’s cultural, ethnic, and religious diversity.