Iran signals optimism for future relations with Syria following indirect talks

Iran has acknowledged recent exchanges of messages with Syria, signalling ongoing diplomatic communication between the two countries.

Mohammad Reza Raouf Sheibani, the Iranian Foreign Minister’s special envoy for Syria, confirmed statements made by Assad Hassan al-Sheibani, the Foreign Minister of Syria’s transitional government, regarding the exchange of positive messages between Tehran and Damascus, Caliber.Az reports via Iranian media.

"The Islamic Republic of Iran is indirectly in contact with Syria’s current officials, and we have also received messages," Sheibani stated.

Expressing optimism about Syria’s developments and the potential restoration of ties, Sheibani emphasized Iran’s continued monitoring of the situation and its commitment to making informed decisions when necessary.

He reiterated Iran’s stance that Syria’s future should be determined by its own people, with the inclusion of all political groups. "Iran’s position on the events in Damascus is clear. Given Syria’s strategic importance in the Middle East, we believe that its future should be decided by its own people through the participation of all political currents," Sheibani asserted.

He also underscored Iran’s rejection of any foreign interference in Syria’s internal affairs. During a recent visit to Moscow, Sheibani discussed the Syrian situation with the Russian president’s representative and the Russian deputy foreign minister, reinforcing Tehran’s commitment to diplomatic engagement on the matter.

It is worth recalling that on December 8, 2024, the regime of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad collapsed following a rapid offensive by rebel forces. The insurgents, led by HTS and supported by the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army, advanced swiftly, capturing key cities including Aleppo and Hama. Their momentum culminated in the seizure of Damascus, prompting Assad to flee the capital and seek asylum in Moscow.

Following the collapse of Assad's regime, Ahmed al-Sharaa, formerly known as Abu Mohammed al-Golani, was declared Syria's interim president. Al-Sharaa, the ex-leader of the HTS, has initiated significant changes to guide Syria through its transitional phase.

By Tamilla Hasanova