Iran's newly elected president reaffirms support for Syria

Iran's newly elected President Masoud Pezeshkian has reiterated Tehran's unwavering support for Syria during a phone call with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

This conversation, which highlighted the enduring alliance between the two nations, Caliber.Az reports citing the foreign media.

During the phone call, Pezeshkian and Assad discussed the future development of their bilateral ties. Pezeshkian emphasised the necessity of strengthening these ties and implementing previously signed agreements to benefit both nations. 

"Strengthening our bilateral ties and executing our agreements is crucial for the interests of our peoples," Pezeshkian stated.

President Assad underscored the significance of Syria-Iran relations, describing them as based on "mutual faithfulness and certain principles."

He highlighted the importance of their united stance against colonial hegemony in the region, which he described as "tumultuous."

The phone call comes shortly after Pezeshkian's election as Iran's next president on July 6, following his victory in a runoff against Saeed Jalili, a former chief nuclear negotiator. Pezeshkian's reaffirmation of support signals continuity in Iran's foreign policy towards Syria, reinforcing their strategic partnership amidst regional challenges.

Iran and Syria have maintained a strategic alliance for decades, rooted in mutual geopolitical interests and shared opposition to Western influence in the Middle East.

Iran views its support for Syria as a means to maintain its influence in the region, counterbalance the presence of US forces, and support allied non-state actors such as Hezbollah in Lebanon. For Syria, the alliance with Iran has been crucial for the survival of Assad's government against various opposition groups and extremist factions.