WANA (Dec 08) – The Iranian ambassador to Syria said, “After the fall of Homs, not only did the Syrian army refrain from resisting anywhere, but the people also stopped resisting, ultimately deciding to hand over the situation peacefully to themselves, so to speak.”

 

Hossein Akbari, the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Syria, stated during a televised interview on Sunday, December 8: “Last night, the Syrian government convened a meeting and decided that there would be no resistance in the capital. Instead, they officially handed over the government, its various sectors, and the entire administration. This decision was announced through a statement made by the Prime Minister, informing the public and the armed forces of this move.”

 

He noted that the developments were predictable after the fall of Aleppo, saying, “By the afternoon, armed forces from the north entered. My colleagues stayed in Damascus until 11 p.m. and left the embassy, with some of them possibly crossing the Syrian border by early morning.”

 

The Iranian Embassy in Damascus Attacked and Damaged

Akbari confirmed, “None of our colleagues from various institutions of the Islamic Republic were present there as necessary measures had been anticipated. The Iranian embassy was attacked and damaged today, which is against international law.”

 

He reiterated, “After the fall of Homs, neither the Syrian army nor the people resisted. They reached the conclusion that they must leave the situation to themselves in a so-called peaceful manner.”

 

Complex Divisions Between North and South

Akbari continued, “Currently, Syria is not under a single coherent force but consists of various groups, some of which are extreme and radical. However, they are distinctly different from ISIS, with past instances of fighting against them due to ideological and doctrinal differences.”

 

He added, “If these groups establish themselves and take over the country, they will naturally pose significant threats to Syria’s neighboring countries.”

 

Israel’s Reaction and Risks

The ambassador explained, “The Israeli regime is currently expressing satisfaction, claiming it has eliminated one of its adversaries. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu views this development as a personal achievement during a crisis period, portraying it as a major action under his leadership.”

 

Nevertheless, Akbari pointed out the inherent risks for Israel: “If these forces gain power in the region, they will undoubtedly become a significant and intensified threat against the regime. Israel itself acknowledges that while the situation presents an opportunity, it also carries risks due to the uncertainty surrounding the establishment of a central, disciplined government in Syria.”

 

Wise Decision to Prevent Bloodshed

Akbari commended Syria’s decision to avoid resistance, stating, “When the army is unable to resist, the people naturally cannot resist either. The decision to refrain from confrontation prevented bloodshed and the destruction of infrastructure.”

 

He emphasized that the government opted to protect civilian life, understanding that without defensive capability, continuing would impose additional costs.

 

U.S. Role and Economic Impact

The ambassador criticized U.S. actions, explaining, “For over 12 years, the U.S. has occupied key economic regions in Syria, exploiting vital resources like oil, gas, and water, selling them through smuggling channels. This occupation is the root cause of Syria’s economic hardships, including only 24 hours of electricity per week.”

 

He argued that U.S. sanctions and support for opposition groups have exacerbated these challenges, and releasing these territories would significantly improve Syria’s economic situation.

 

Resistance Beyond Geography

Akbari reflected on the broader ideology of the resistance axis, stating, “Resistance is an idea that transcends geography. For example, Yemen is not geographically connected to the resistance axis but remains a vital player in it. Likewise, countries like Russia and several in Latin America align with this axis despite ideological differences.

 

He concluded, “Any nation that resists U.S. and Israeli hegemony becomes an ally in this axis, as it signifies a commitment to independence and dignity.”