In an interview with Al Arabiya, Iraqi Parliament Speaker Mahmoud Al-Mashhadani highlighted Tehran’s growing unease over recent political developments in Syria, particularly the fall of the Assad regime. Al-Mashhadani described Iran’s reaction as “deeply concerned and dissatisfied,” noting that these events have significantly disrupted Iran’s regional influence, often referred to as the “Iranian crescent.”
“The crescent established by Iran has had its arc altered after the recent events in Syria,” Al-Mashhadani remarked, signaling a shift in the geopolitical dynamics that Tehran once heavily relied on. He also emphasized that what happens in Syria directly affects Iraq’s security, politics, and society. “What happens in Syria impacts Iraq on security, political, and social levels,” he said.
Al-Mashhadani expressed caution regarding the formation of a quota-based government in Syria, similar to Iraq’s system, warning that it could deepen divisions within the country. He also revealed that a recent visit by an Iraqi intelligence delegation to Damascus focused on border security and curbing armed groups.
The discussions with the new Syrian administration were described as “positive and reassuring.” However, he warned that regional instability could serve the interests of only one or two nations, a veiled reference to external powers exploiting the chaos.
Highlighting Iran’s diminished sway, Al-Mashhadani called on Arab countries to avoid abandoning Syria, as happened with Iraq in the past, and to play a central role in stabilizing the region. He also advocated for a regional collaboration to restore Syria’s sovereignty and foster stability.
The Speaker concluded with a stark reminder: “Instability in Syria carries direct negative consequences for Iraq and the entire region.” His remarks underline Middle Eastern nations’ interconnected challenges amid the shifting dynamics in Syria.
Source » ncr-iran