Iran’s interaction with Syria depends on HTS behavior, says FM

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said the country’s interaction with Syria depends on the behavior of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) militant group.

News ID: 5696

Date: 04 January 2025 - 12:25

TABNAK, Jan 04: “We will not decide based on changes in appearance, comments and slogans. Our decisions will be made based on behaviors. The way we will interact with Syria depends on the behavior of the other side in Syria,” he said in an interview with China CCTV, referring to the HTS militant group in Syria.

“Iran is acting with complete good faith in Syria and wants tranquility in the country,” he said.

One of the most defining moments of 2024 was the departure of President Bashar al-Assad from Damascus following the takeover of the Syrian capital by West-backed militant groups.

Following the takeover of Damascus by militant groups, led by Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham, the power shift has plunged the Arab country into deeper uncertainty and chaos.

Iran has already said that it is in talks with the Syrian side to reopen its embassy in Damascus.

The announcement comes two weeks after militants from Hayat Tahrir al-Sham seized control of Syria on December 8, ending the 24-year presidency of Bashar al-Assad. On the same day, the Iranian diplomatic mission in Damascus was stormed and looted by unknown forces.

Syria continues to face a worsening humanitarian crisis, with food insecurity and displacement affecting millions of its citizens. Mohajerani noted that Iran remains dedicated to helping Syria overcome these obstacles while advocating for stability and peace in the region.