WANA (Nov 19) – In a joint press conference with Syrian Foreign Minister Bassam al-Sabbagh, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized Tehran’s unwavering stance against any threats or violations of its sovereignty.

 

“Iran has demonstrated its strategic resolve to the Zionist regime and any party eyeing aggression against us. We will not leave any violation of our territory unanswered,” Araghchi stated, referring to recent Israeli attacks.

 

“Iran reserves the right to respond decisively, as part of our defensive strategy. We act with wisdom, avoiding haste or delay, and will respond at the appropriate time.”

 

Araghchi also highlighted Iran’s resilience against international pressure, stating that maximum pressure tactics have failed. “When the U.S. adopted a maximum pressure policy, we responded with maximum resistance. Even U.S. officials have admitted their strategy has failed. We recommend they replace maximum pressure with maximum rationality.”

On regional cooperation, Araghchi described the talks with his Syrian counterpart as “productive,” focusing on developments in Gaza, Lebanon, and strengthening bilateral relations.

 

“We reaffirm our commitment to supporting the Syrian people and government and welcome the country’s stability and territorial integrity,” he said.

 

Araghchi condemned Israeli actions, stating: “The Zionist regime’s aggression, from Palestine to Lebanon and Syria, reflects its expansionist and criminal nature. We call on the international community and the United Nations to end their inaction and condemn these crimes.”

 

Syrian Foreign Minister Bassam al-Sabbagh echoed these sentiments, describing Israeli escalation as part of a broader U.S.-Israeli project to redraw the region’s geopolitical map.

 

“Israel acts as a tool in this agenda. Despite this, we have successfully expelled many terrorist groups, though some remain in northern Syria, and we are actively combating them,” Sabbagh noted.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi speaks during a joint press conference with Syrian Foreign Minister Bassam al-Sabbagh in Tehran, Iran, November 19, 2024. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia press Agency)

He condemned Israel’s recent attacks, including one targeting Iran’s consulate in Syria, and stressed the need for global accountability. “Israeli crimes must stop before humanitarian aid can flow uninterrupted. We support Iran’s right to defend itself against any aggression,” he added.

 

Sabbagh also addressed bilateral agreements, highlighting joint economic and strategic commissions set to convene in Damascus. “We are satisfied with our progress but recognize the need for further cooperation, particularly in mitigating the effects of illegal sanctions,” he said.

 

The ministers emphasized their shared commitment to ending Israeli occupation in the Golan Heights, combating terrorism, and countering foreign interference in Syria.

 

Al-Sabbagh concluded with a call for enhanced coordination between the two nations. “Certain countries continue destructive actions against our sovereignty. We hope for increased collaboration to address these challenges effectively,” he said.

 

The joint press conference followed a meeting between the two ministers in Tehran after Bassam Al-Sabbagh arrival, underscoring the deep strategic ties between Iran and Syria.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi meets with Syrian Foreign Minister Bassam al-Sabbagh in Tehran, Iran, November 19, 2024. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia press Agency)