Iran wishes for ongoing relations with Syria following coup
Iran has expressed hope of maintaining its relationship with Syria following the deposition of President Bashar Assad by jihadists. Read Full Article at RT.com.
The Foreign Ministry of Iran declared that the future of Syria must be determined by its own citizens without external interference, expressing optimism for continued relations between the two nations in a statement released on Sunday.
On the same day, jihadists captured control of Damascus, effectively ending Assad's 24-year reign.
The statement from Tehran also reaffirmed support for international initiatives guided by UN Resolution 2254, aimed at advancing the political dialogue in Syria. Iranian officials called for an urgent resolution to the military conflict, measures to combat terrorism, and the initiation of inclusive discussions involving all segments of Syrian society to facilitate the formation of a new government. The UN resolution advocates for a peaceful settlement of the conflict through free elections and the establishment of a new constitution.
“The Islamic Republic of Iran, emphasizing Syria’s position as an important and influential country in the West Asian region, will spare no effort to help establish security and stability in Syria, and to this end, it will continue its consultations with all influential parties, especially in the region,” the statement emphasized, and also highlighted Tehran’s longstanding support for Syria.
Iran further called for the protection of citizens and safeguarding religious sites and diplomatic missions in accordance with international law. Earlier on Sunday, a video surfaced reportedly showing looters wreaking havoc at the Iranian Embassy in Damascus following the jihadists' takeover of the capital.
Hayat Tahrir al-Sham alongside other anti-government factions seized control of Damascus after a rapid offensive from the Idlib province, led by a former Al-Qaeda commander.
Moscow confirmed on Sunday that President Bashar Assad had indeed stepped down and exited Syria following negotiations with the insurgent groups. Russian officials clarified that while Moscow did not participate in the discussions, they acknowledged Assad’s choice to transition power “peacefully.”
Ian Smith contributed to this report for TROIB News