The regional influence of Iran, Turkey, and the United States further complicates Iraq's relationship with Syria as these powers recalibrate their strategies following recent changes.

During their discussions, both leaders emphasized the importance of regional security and counterterrorism efforts, reflecting a shared commitment to stability.

Iraq is particularly concerned about the ongoing threat from Islamic State sleeper cells and the porous border with Syria, which facilitates cross-border militancy and smuggling.

Additionally, Iraq is grappling with a humanitarian crisis involving over 270,000 Syrian refugees and is discussing the feasibility of voluntary repatriation.

The historical context of Iraq's conflicts, including the US-led invasion and subsequent sectarian violence, continues to impact its regional relations, particularly with Syria.

Iraq's government is also addressing the illicit narcotics trade, particularly the trafficking of Captagon from Syria, raising concerns about potential cooperation from Syria's new leadership.

Despite the strategic necessity of stabilizing the region, the Iraqi government remains cautious about engaging in Syria's reconstruction due to financial and political risks.

Syria has expressed a commitment to counterterrorism cooperation with Iraq, as indicated by Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani's visit to Baghdad last month, highlighting a readiness to strengthen security and trade collaboration.

On April 18, 2025, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani met with Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Doha, marking their first official meeting since the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime.

The meeting also focused on the reopening of borders and the resumption of trade, with Sudani inviting Sharaa to the upcoming Arab League summit in Baghdad scheduled for May 2025.

The collapse of Assad's regime has prompted Iraq to reassess its approach towards Syria, driven by security concerns and the need for a stable neighbor.

Sudani has called for an inclusive political process in Syria that protects all social, religious, and national groups, urging the Syrian government to take serious actions against the Islamic State.