WANA (Dec 17) – Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmail Baghaei, emphasized that Iran’s presence in Syria was not to defend or support any individual, group, or party but rather to help establish peace and stability, specifically to combat terrorism and ISIS.

 

Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday, Baghaei highlighted Iran’s foundational and responsible role in Syria. He stated, “We were not in Syria for territorial ambitions or to revive past empires. What mattered to us was Syria’s security and territorial integrity, as insecurity in one country impacts the entire region.”

 

Regarding the reopening of Iran’s embassy in Damascus, Baghaei noted that necessary preparations, particularly ensuring the safety of diplomats and staff, are underway.

 

Addressing remarks by Turkish officials regarding Syria’s developments and claims of coordination with Iran and Russia over Bashar al-Assad’s departure, Baghaei emphasized that countries often present their own narratives.

 

He referenced consultations in Doha and the Astana meetings, where all parties underscored the need to halt conflicts, encourage dialogue between opposition groups and the Syrian government, and prevent terrorism and territorial breaches.

 

Criticism of EU Remarks on Syria

Baghaei dismissed the EU foreign policy chief’s statement that Iran and Russia should have no role in Syria, calling it “a historical irony.” He urged the EU to reevaluate its role in West Asia, particularly its involvement in crises, including the flow of European terrorists into Syria during the early days of ISIS.

 

On Iran-EU Dialogue

Discussing future talks between Iran and Europe, Baghaei stated that while no exact date has been set, both sides are committed to continuing the dialogue. He criticized European efforts, such as letters to the UN and threats of triggering the “snapback mechanism,” as unconstructive and legally baseless, reaffirming the peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear program.

 

Japan and Sanctions Negotiations

Baghaei noted that Iran maintains direct communication with JCPOA parties and does not require intermediaries. He added that while ideas from other countries, including Japan, are welcomed, negotiations will continue directly with European parties.

 

No Transitional Government Yet in Syria

Responding to a question about Iran’s interaction with a potential transitional government in Syria, spokesperson Ismail Baghaei clarified that no formal transitional government has yet emerged.

 

“Syria is in a period of transition, and while various entities are active, we hope this process will be peaceful, preserve the security of Syrian citizens, and ensure the country’s unity and territorial integrity, ultimately leading to an inclusive government,” he said. Baghaei added that Iran would make decisions regarding this issue at the appropriate time.

 

Iran Awaits US Administration’s Official Policies

Regarding comments by former US State Department official Wendy Sherman, who claimed that Trump seeks a comprehensive negotiation with Iran, Baghaei said Iran has yet to hear an official stance from the incoming US administration.

 

“This is natural as they are not yet in office,” he noted. Baghaei emphasized that Iran refrains from reacting to speculation by former officials or media outlets, adding that decisions will be made once Iran is confident about future proposals or options.

 

Western Narratives on Syria Rejected

Addressing Western claims that Iran and Russia’s involvement weakened Syria’s government, Baghaei dismissed such narratives as attempts to portray Iran in a negative light. He reiterated that Iran’s presence in Syria was never to support any particular individual, group, or faction.

 

“Our role was fundamentally to help establish peace and stability, specifically by combating terrorism and ISIS, whose supporters were known. The presence of ISIS not only threatened Syria’s stability but also that of the entire region,” he explained.

 

Baghaei criticized the US presence in Syria, questioning its legal basis. “Was their deployment authorized by the UN Security Council or requested by the Syrian government? What have they achieved during this time?” he asked, emphasizing that every country must rely on its own defensive capabilities rather than foreign forces.

 

Syria’s Diplomatic Presence and Iran’s Position

Commenting on the future of Syria’s diplomatic presence in Iran, Baghaei noted that the Syrian Embassy’s diplomatic staff remains active in Tehran.

 

Decisions about its future operations will depend on developments in Syria and the decisions of Syria’s new ruling authority. He added that Iran’s embassy in Syria and its consulate in Aleppo will be reviewed within this framework.

 

Syria’s Financial Obligations to Iran

On the issue of Syria’s debt to Iran, Baghaei dismissed reports about exaggerated figures. He emphasized that agreements, treaties, and memorandums between the two countries remain valid and will be transferred to any future government based on the principle of state succession. “This matter is part of Iran’s ongoing agenda,” he said.

 

Iran’s Continued Support for Syria

Baghaei reaffirmed Iran’s longstanding cultural, religious, and political ties with Syria, emphasizing that Iran remains committed to supporting the Syrian people. “We will continue to act in good faith toward Syria and will make decisions based on the overall situation and the actions of active players in the country.”

 

Referring to UN Resolution 2254, Baghaei highlighted its role in shaping Syria’s future and Iran’s efforts to bring the Syrian government and opposition closer together. “If amendments to the resolution are needed, this depends on the evaluations of stakeholders involved in Syria. Iran’s position is clear: whatever is chosen by the Syrian people, in its broadest sense, will have our full respect.”

 

Iranian Armed Forces Pledge Full Defense of National Integrity

The spokesperson reiterated the country’s commitment to defending its sovereignty in response to threats from Israel. “We have no doubt that the malice of the occupying regime knows no limits. However, we hope other parties recognize their own interests and understand that Israel has a history solely marked by destruction, chaos, and aggression.”

 

He noted that Israel openly claims to have attacked over 400 sites in Syria and shows no hesitation in expanding its aggression in the region. At the same time, he emphasized, “All parties are aware of Iran’s exceptional defensive capabilities and know that Iran’s Armed Forces will fully defend the nation and its territorial integrity.”

 

He stressed that Iran has never posed a threat to regional countries, highlighting the nation’s consistent commitment to peace and stability, which it considers integral to its own security.

 

Commenting on various domestic and international viewpoints expressed through the media, he clarified that these are personal opinions, adding, “Iran’s official positions are announced by the country’s official spokespersons.”

 

Protecting Sacred Sites in Syria

In response to concerns about the treatment of sacred sites in Syria by the country’s new governing forces, the spokesperson stated there is no reason to believe these sites will be disrespected. He reiterated Iran’s goodwill towards the Syrian people, emphasizing that such sites are important cultural, religious, and civilizational treasures that must be preserved.

 

The spokesperson added, “We have consistently stressed the importance of securing these sacred sites and hope this situation continues. Similarly, protecting diplomatic sites is an obligation for governments under all circumstances.”

 

Afghan Official’s Assassination Condemned as Terrorist Act

Addressing the recent assassination of Khalil-ur-Rahman Haqqani, Afghanistan’s acting Minister of Refugees, the Iranian spokesperson described the incident as a terrorist act. “We condemn all forms of terrorism and extend our condolences to the victims’ families and the Afghan interim government,” he stated.

 

Any Occupation Violates UN Security Council Resolution

Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson warned that in recent days, an area in Syria equivalent in size to the Gaza Strip has been occupied. He urged all regional countries to stay alert to Israeli aggressions in Syria and called for the international community, especially the United Nations and the UN Security Council, to take action. He stressed that this occupation violates a UN Security Council resolution, demanding the cessation of these actions and the eventual liberation of the Golan Heights.

 

In response to another question regarding the role of Kurds in Syria and their involvement in the formation of Syria’s future government, the spokesperson reiterated Iran’s commitment to preserving Syria’s territorial integrity. He emphasized that it is essential for all groups within Syria to have a say in the future of the country, ensuring that the process is free from discrimination, exclusion, or any form of deprivation.

 

On Iran’s involvement in Syria, the spokesperson stated, “As an influential country, we will actively participate in any opportunity that arises regarding the region and Syria’s security and stability.” He highlighted that Iran maintains continuous contact with Syria’s neighboring countries and will continue to address Syria’s future at the upcoming Cairo conference, where discussions will be held with foreign ministers.

 

Astana Process a Crucial Platform

He further emphasized the importance of the Astana process as a crucial platform, asserting that Iran will make every effort to ensure the region’s security and stability. He reaffirmed Iran’s position as a supporter of the Syrian people and pledged to work toward preventing chaos and terrorist exploitation during Syria’s transitional phase.

 

Regarding the recent meeting in Jordan on Syria, where Iran was not invited, and the claim that Iran is being sidelined in regional processes, the spokesperson responded: “Everyone is entitled to their own narrative, and you will hear ours, based on facts.”

 

He clarified that Iran has no territorial ambitions in the region, and its presence in Syria is aimed at supporting the Syrian people. He added that the future of Syria will be decided by Syrians themselves, and other countries should assist without interference, pressure, or threats.

 

The spokesperson also noted that while European countries were absent from the meeting, many Arab countries supported the Astana process in the past, despite not physically attending. He expressed hope that new diplomatic initiatives will help advance Syria’s future, but emphasized that these processes must be Syrian-led.

 

In conclusion, the spokesperson stressed that foreign intervention in Syria’s internal affairs will not benefit the region or its neighbors. The future of Syria, he asserted, depends on decisions made by Syria’s internal actors. All countries involved must act without selfish ambitions and support the Syrian people’s self-determined future.