Cooperation with Syrian Government Needed to Battle ISIL, Says Bogdanov
The success of the US-led coalition’s campaign against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist group depends on its willingness to cooperate with the Syrian government, Russian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Mikhail Bogdanov said Sunday.
“How is it possible to fight against terrorism in a country, when the leadership of that country wishes to fight, but (US and its allies) do not recognize its sovereignty? There is a need for clear understanding of what a sovereign state is, and cooperation with this country’s government, like this is done in Iraq,” Bogdanov said, adding that “there should be no double standards”.
According to the deputy minister, who also serves as Russia’s special presidential envoy for the Middle East, terrorism issues must be addressed “collectively and on the basis of clear principles”.
In August, the United States authorized limited airstrikes against ISIL targets in Iraq. Washington extended its airstrikes against the militants into Syria in September, after US President Barack Obama announced his decision to form an international anti-ISIL coalition.
The ISIL Takfiri terrorists currently control parts of Syria and Iraq. They have threatened all communities, as they continue their atrocities in Iraq.
Senior Iraqi officials have blamed Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and some ArabGulf Arab states for the growing terrorism in their country.
The ISIL has links with Saudi intelligence and is believed to be indirectly supported by the Israeli regime.
FNA
R.S