Baku, Azerbaijan, Nov. 18
By Khalid Kazimov - Trend:
Iraqi President Muhammad Fuad Masum says Iran has played a key role in fighting against the IS ("Islamic State" terrorist organization) in his country.
Speaking about the intelligence cooperation between Russia, Iraq, Syria and Iran against the IS, he added that Baghdad is ready to engage in further cooperation to fight against terrorism. However he dismissed the speculations that Iraq would ask Russia to conduct military operations on its territory.
He further dismissed rumors suggesting that US is planning to separate Iraq into three different countries, saying it is "propaganda", Mehr news agency reported Nov. 11.
The IS was created in 2003 in Iraq. Following the start of military confrontation in Syria between the armed opposition and the government forces, the IS penetrated the country in 2013.
Strengthening of the IS in Syria allowed it to return to Iraq, deploying military actions against government forces there.
Some western and Iraqi media have underscored the significant role of Iranian forces in fighting against the IS. The media reports say Iranian forces have a decisive presence on the battlefield. Meanwhile Iranian officials said the Islamic Republic only acts as adviser to the Iraqi forces.
Major General Mohammad Ali Jafari, the commander of Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) said Feb. 14 Iran has become a pain in the neck for the IS in Iraq.