Syrian Foreign Minister's Warning to Iran
In a significant statement, Syria's caretaker Foreign Minister, Asaad al-Sheibani, has issued a stern warning to Iran, urging it to refrain from 'sowing chaos' in Syria. This warning comes amid ongoing tensions following the recent political upheaval in the country. Al-Sheibani emphasized the need for Iran to respect the will of the Syrian people and the nation's sovereignty, stating, "Iran must respect the will of the Syrian people and the sovereignty and integrity of the country." He further cautioned Iran about the potential consequences of its actions, highlighting the delicate situation in Syria.
Iranian Response and Regional Dynamics
In response to al-Sheibani's remarks, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei clarified that there is currently no direct communication between Tehran and the newly established Syrian administration led by Ahmed al-Sharaa. Baghaei reiterated that Iran's previous military presence in Syria was solely aimed at combating terrorism. He also noted that Iran has engaged in discussions with Turkey regarding the situation in Syria, indicating the complexity of regional dynamics. Baghaei claimed that there are no Iranian citizens remaining in Syria and advised against travel to the country due to the uncertain circumstances.
Transition of Power in Syria
The backdrop of this diplomatic tension is the recent political transition in Syria following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad, who had ruled for 24 years. The new Syrian administration, under Ahmed al-Sharaa, is tasked with leading the country through a transitional phase. The political landscape remains volatile as the new government seeks to establish its authority and navigate relations with regional powers, particularly Iran, which has been a key supporter of the Assad regime. The developments in Syria are closely monitored by various stakeholders in the region, each with their own interests and narratives regarding the ongoing crisis.