Jordan and Syria have initiated a joint security committee to tackle arms and drug smuggling across their borders and address the threat of the Islamic State. The move comes amid rising concerns over the production of captagon in Syria, with Jordan serving as a transit route for the drug. Both countries are committed to coordinated efforts to enhance border security and combat these shared challenges.
In a significant move towards enhancing regional security, Jordan and Syria have established a joint security committee aimed at securing their shared border and addressing critical issues such as arms and drug smuggling, alongside the threat of the Islamic State’s resurgence. This announcement was made by Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safari during a press conference with his Syrian counterpart, Asaad Hassan al-Shibani. The discussions focused on the importance of collaboration in addressing these mutual threats in a cohesive manner.
Prominent anti-narcotics authorities from Western nations have highlighted that captagon, an addictive amphetamine-type stimulant, is being illicitly produced on a mass scale in Syria. Jordan serves as a significant transit point for this drug, which is destined for the affluent Gulf states. In response to these challenges, the Jordanian military has undertaken several preemptive airstrikes targeting militias within Syria, believed to be connected to the drug trade, thereby affecting their facilities and supply chains.
During the press conference, Minister Safari stated, “We discussed securing the borders, especially the threat of arms and drugs smuggling and the resurgence of Islamic State. Our security is one, we will coordinate together to combat these mutual challenges.” Minister al-Shibani subsequently reassured that under the new Islamist leadership in Syria, drug smuggling would not pose a threat to Jordan, indicating a potential shift in regional dynamics concerning drug enforcement measures.
This collaboration between Jordan and Syria underscores a strategic approach to address not only the pressing issue of narcotic trafficking but also the broader security landscape which includes the rising influence of extremist groups such as the Islamic State. Their combined efforts may lead to improved border security and a reduction in illegal cross-border activities, reinforcing regional stability in the long term.
The bilateral efforts by Jordan and Syria to combat drug and arms smuggling arise amid growing concerns over the production and distribution of captagon in Syria, which poses significant risks not only to Jordan but also to the Gulf states. The Islamic State’s potential resurgence further complicates security in the region, prompting this cooperative initiative to fortify border security and mutual intelligence sharing. Jordan’s proactive military actions, such as airstrikes against drug-linked militias, reflect its commitment to addressing these pressing challenges while maintaining stability.
In conclusion, the formation of a joint security committee between Jordan and Syria marks a critical step towards enhancing regional security and combating the intertwining issues of drug smuggling and the threat from Islamic State. Through collaborative efforts, both nations aim to secure their borders and fortify their responses to shared security challenges, ultimately striving for a more stable and secure environment. The ongoing dialogues and military actions highlight the seriousness of their commitment to this cause.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
