WANA (Apr 16) – Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister has stated that the country is prepared to assist the current Syrian government in transforming into a more inclusive and effective administration.

 

Speaking on Wednesday at the Sulaymaniyah 2025 Elite Forum, Saeed Khatibzadeh, Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister, said: “We withdrew from Syria when we realized the central government was no longer willing to defend itself.”

 

He added: “The Islamic Republic of Iran has consistently supported central governments—whether in Syria or during Saudi Arabia’s blockade of Qatar. Even during the coup attempt in Turkey, we stood by our brothers and friends in that country and sought to address our differences through the Astana process.”

 

Khatibzadeh continued: “The Islamic Republic of Iran is fully prepared, if necessary, to help the Syrian government evolve into a more inclusive and improved administration. This is an official message that I am declaring from this platform.”

 

Elsewhere in his remarks, Khatibzadeh spoke about the restoration of ties between Iran and Saudi Arabia, noting: “The rapprochement between Iran and Saudi Arabia began in Baghdad and on Iraqi soil. The United States and European countries had no role in this process, which proves that if there is a genuine will, there is also a path to resolving disputes.”

 

He emphasized: “No country in the world is willing to compromise on its national security. Undoubtedly, Iran—with the world’s oldest continuous civilization—will never do so.”

 

Regarding indirect talks between Iran and the United States, mediated by Oman and with the first round held on April 11 and the next scheduled for April 18, he said: “If we can strike a balance between the two main issues—sanctions relief and legitimate security concerns—then we can work toward an acceptable framework for negotiations.”