Fuad Hussein Receives a Phone Call from the European Union High Representative to Discuss Developments in Syria and Regional Conditions

24 يناير
الوزارة والبعثات 145

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Iraq, H.E. Mr. Fuad Hussein, received a phone call on Saturday, 24 January 2026, from the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, H.E. Ms. Kaja Kallas.

During the call, the two sides discussed the longstanding and constructive relations between the Republic of Iraq and the European Union, as well as avenues to enhance joint cooperation across various fields of mutual interest.

They also exchanged views on developments in Syria, particularly the understandings and agreements reached, and the reasons behind the clashes that have occurred in certain areas.

The discussion addressed the issue of the ISIS terrorist organization and prisons in Syria, especially the escape of a number of ISIS members from some prisons no longer under the control of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The security situation in Syria’s Al-Hasakah Governorate was also reviewed, with emphasis on the need to sustain the ceasefire and resolve existing issues through peaceful means.

Both sides underscored the importance of Europe playing an active role in supporting talks between the Syrian Democratic Forces and the Syrian government, with the aim of reaching clear agreements and ensuring their implementation.

The fate of ISIS prisoners was also discussed, during which H.E. Ms. Kallas expressed her appreciation to the Iraqi government for its preliminary agreement to receive them, with H.E. Mr. Fuad Hussein affirming that the security and financial burdens associated with this issue should not be shouldered by Iraq alone, and that responsibility for addressing it rests with all concerned countries.

In a related context, H.E. Mr. Fuad Hussein reviewed the outcomes of his recent visit to the Islamic Republic of Iran, and the two sides exchanged views on EU relations in light of the tense and dangerous regional situation.