The head of the Iraqi Popular Mobilization Forces' (PMF) media directorate, Muhannad al-Aqabi, told Al Mayadeen on Monday evening that "what is happening in Syria is a source of concern not only for Iraq but for the entire region."

Al-Aqabi added that "Iraq has a security apparatus with extensive experience in confronting terrorist organizations" and emphasized, "We are taking all necessary measures to protect the security of the Iraqi people and secure our borders."

He argued that "the armed militants mobilizing within Syria are following external agendas aimed at destabilizing the region," describing the terrorist groups mobilizing in Syria as "Zionist fighters disguised as Islamists, trying to violate Arab lands and tamper with the region's security."

Al-Aqabi also pointed out that "some countries and extremist groups claiming to represent Islam do not promote an anti-Zionist ideology," arguing that if they had a correct understanding of history, "they would realize they will eventually be abandoned, as is the case with collaborators."

The PMF's media chief also said that "Iraq is sending military reinforcements from the PMF and the army to the western border with Syria."

Escalations in Syria have direct repercussions on Iraq: PMF chief

On Monday, Faleh al-Fayyad, the head of Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces, said in a statement that he instructed an "increase in the presence of units and reinforcements on the fronts," clarifying that the Popular Mobilization Forces operate solely within Iraq and have not entered Syria.

Al-Fayyad added that "what is happening in Syria has direct repercussions on Iraqi national security," warning "whoever tries to advance into Iraq" against doing so.

The deputy speaker of the Iraqi Parliament called for "activating intelligence efforts and coordinating with Syria, as well as brotherly and friendly countries, to exchange information," emphasizing the need to conduct "targeted preemptive operations to prevent the infiltration of terrorist groups."

He further stressed that "Iraq has the right to defend its national security and peace from a legal perspective and under Iraqi and international law."

Read more: No fear regarding secure Iraq borders with Syria: Border Forces chief