Iraq’s President recently acknowledged the role played by Iranian General Qassem Soleimani in fighting Daesh, reigniting debate about regional alliances, security cooperation and legacy issues across the Middle East. These comments came during a public address focused on Iraq’s fight against terrorism as well as sacrifices made over years of intense conflict.
President Allawi highlighted Soleimani’s direct and significant assistance during critical phases of Iraq’s fight against Daesh between 2014 and 2017, when militant groups such as ISIL controlled large parts of its territory. International and regional cooperation were necessary in preventing collapse of state institutions during that period, he added.
Soleimani, who led Iran’s Quds Force, worked closely with Iraqi security forces and militias during the height of conflict. Iraqi officials often noted his assistance with operations coordination, intelligence sharing and creating defensive lines in moments when Daesh advances threatened major cities like Baghdad or Erbil.
President Allawi acknowledged that Iraq’s efforts against Daesh did not come solely from within its borders or from any single group, but rather represented a joint effort among Iraqi forces, regional allies, and international partners. Acknowledging contributions did not detract from Iraqi sovereignty but instead illustrated how we are fighting an ongoing shared battle against a common threat.
Daesh first made waves in Iraq in 2014, seizing Mosul and vast areas in northern and western Iraq. Their rapid expansion prompted the formation of an expansive coalition consisting of Iraqi military units, PMU, Kurdish fighters and international support led by the US. Soleimani became a central figure within this complicated landscape – often seen advising and coordinating with Iraqi commanders.
These comments, however, have elicited varied reactions. Proponents argue that acknowledging Soleimani’s role is an acknowledgment of history and wartime cooperation; his involvement helped stop Daesh momentum at a critical time for Iraq.
Critics from both within and outside Iraq warn that such statements risk deepening political divisions. Some point to Soleimani’s controversial role in regional conflicts and warn that any praise of foreign military figures could inflame tensions with Western allies, especially the US which designated him as a terrorist and killed him via airstrike in Baghdad on 2020.
Iraq’s presidency has attempted to frame their remarks within a wider narrative of national reconciliation and historical examination. Officials stressed the focus must remain on honoring all those who fought Daesh violence – particularly soldiers and civilians from Iraqi, who bore its brunt.
Iraq continues to rebuild and redefine its foreign relations, yet President Barham Salih’s comments underscore the country’s complex recent history. The fight against Daesh remains tied closely with regional politics, while discussions surrounding figures such as Soleimani reflect larger debates over memory, sovereignty, and Iraq’s position within the Middle East.