WANA (Jan 22) – In an interview with the Arabic-language network Al-Mayadeen, Mohsen Rezaei, a member of Iran’s Expediency Council, commented on key regional developments, including the ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon, the situation in Syria, and Iran’s nuclear file.

 

Palestinian Resistance’s Victory

Rezaei affirmed that the Palestinian resistance, led by Hamas in Gaza, achieved victory, supported significantly by allied fronts in Lebanon, Yemen, and Iraq. He stated that the coordinated efforts of these groups played a pivotal role in assisting the Palestinian people.

 

He attributed the wars in Gaza and Lebanon and developments in Syria to a larger American-Israeli plan, which, he warned, had the potential to extend its reach to East Asia.

 

Lebanon and Israeli Retreat

Addressing the conflict in Lebanon, Rezaei said Israeli forces had hoped to advance to the Litani River following the assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. However, their plans failed. “Today, the Israeli occupiers have no choice but to withdraw from southern Lebanon, as the Islamic resistance remains vigilant and prepared,” he emphasized.

 

Syria’s Future and Regional Stability

Commenting on Syria, Rezaei revealed Iran’s efforts to facilitate dialogue between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. However, the clashes in Idlib disrupted these plans. He stressed that Syria’s future government must represent all its people and preserve its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

 

Iran’s Role and Nuclear Agreement Concerns

Rezaei highlighted Iran’s intention to leverage its relationships with friendly nations to counter U.S. hegemony and secure its interests. On the nuclear agreement, he criticized the inability of previous signatories to hold U.S. President Donald Trump accountable for violating the deal, leading to Iran’s mistrust of these countries.

 

Rezaei also dismissed accusations that resistance groups in the region act as tools for Iran. “Iran does not have weapons in the region but is ready to assist any country that requests help,” he clarified.