Baghdad intensifies security measures along the 620-kilometer frontier, citing “heightened vigilance” and the need to counter ISIS activity. The command of the Iraqi Border Forces announced that it is continuing to reinforce control over the border with Syria by advancing construction of a concrete wall in the sector of the Border Ranger Brigade in the Turaifawi area, north of Al-Qaim.
A Multi-Layered Defense Strategy
In an official statement, the command said the work is part of a broader series of security fortifications aimed at strengthening control over the border strip. The measures are designed to complete plans to elevate field fortifications and safeguard Iraq’s borders, contributing to overall security and stability.
The defensive strategy extends beyond the concrete barrier. The fortifications include multiple layers of security features such as barbed wire, inflatable barriers and trenches. Thermal cameras have been installed, and large numbers of troops have been deployed to monitor and intercept any infiltration attempts or attacks.
Regional Instability Drives Action
Over the course of the revolution, attention to border security has steadily increased due to the activities of armed groups like ISIS and Iran-backed Iraqi Shia militias. Since forming the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) in June 2014, over 20,000 Iran-backed Shia fighters from around 20 armed Iraqi factions such as Badar Organization, Iraqi Hezbollah, Asiab Ahl al-Haq, Nujabaa, Abu Faddal Abass Division, Imam Hussein Division, Imam Ali Division, and other sectarian factions illegally crossed the borders and fought alongside the Assad regime forces and militias.
Despite tightening security, Baghdad has stressed its commitment to maintaining friendly relations with Damascus. Iraqi officials continue to emphasize a policy of non-alignment and non-interference in Syrian internal affairs.
In a previous statement, Iraqi Prime Minister Muhammad Shia al-Sudani said Iraq seeks to protect its border with Syria and support regional stability without becoming entangled in surrounding conflicts. He noted that Iraq is cooperating with Syria to counter ISIS activity, as the group still maintains fighters in eastern Syria. He added that Baghdad has exchanged security information with Damascus to improve border monitoring and prevent cross-border movement.
A Necessary Step for Regional Security
Iraq’s move comes amid complex regional challenges. Baghdad is working to manage its border with Syria carefully, aiming to reinforce security while preserving stable relations. Officials view Syria as a geographic and strategic security depth for neighboring states. Its stability, they say, is essential not only for Iraq but for the region as a whole.
