Syrian Vice President Abdel Halim Khaddam emphasized that all Arab countries, Turkey, and Iran recognize the gravity of the current situation in Iraq and advocate for the transfer of power to the Iraqi people. Khaddam made these remarks during a press conference following his meeting today with a delegation representing Iraqi tribes. He stated that the discussions focused on the imperative of rebuilding the Iraqi state, enabling the participation of all Iraqis in managing their country’s affairs, determining their future, and conducting elections under the supervision of the United Nations. The goal of these elections would be to select an elected legislative council responsible for drafting a constitution for the country. Khaddam further highlighted that “there is a national consensus on the importance of maintaining unity, and no differences exist that would undermine this unity, as any shortcomings in the process of national reconstruction would have serious consequences for all segments and sects of the Iraqi population.” He added, “Syria is exerting significant efforts to provide assistance to the Iraqi people and alleviate their suffering. We hope that the Iraqi people will swiftly achieve their national interests.”
Responding to a question regarding the establishment of federalism in Iraq, particularly in the north, Khaddam stated, “All matters concerning Iraq’s political, legal, or constitutional structure are decided by the Iraqi people through elections. No one can adopt a viewpoint or implement such measures until the Iraqi people have had their say.” Regarding Israel’s policy of increasing settlements in the Golan Heights and allocating funds for this purpose, he underscored that Israeli actions aim to undermine any peaceful approach and the Zionist project, which runs counter to the interests of the Arab and Islamic nations. When asked about Turkish mediation between Syria and Israel, Khaddam commented, “This is what I am hearing at the moment.” In response to inquiries about Israeli officials’ statements regarding targeting Damascus and threats directed at Syria, Khaddam acknowledged, “Every day, there are statements coming out of Israel, and Israeli policy is clear to us. We are pursuing a course of action that serves our national interests and secures the future of our country. And by ‘our country,’ I mean not only Syria but the entire Arab nation.”
