Envoy Stresses Strong Public Support for Syrian Gov’t

A senior Iranian diplomat said the government of Syria is legitimate since it enjoys strong public support, and called on the West to avoid double-standard policy towards terrorism in Syria.

Speaking to France 24, Tehran’s Envoy to Paris Ali Ahani voiced Iran’s support for the Syrian people, adding that the Syrian government is lawful as long as it is supported by the majority of the Syrians.

However, the Iranian diplomat said the Damascus government has kept its power due to public support.

Ahani further lashed out at the West for its double-standard policy on fighting terrorism, and stated that a selective approach towards terrorism must be avoided.

It is not right to support and advocate terrorists who kill people in Syria while opposing rebels in Mali, he added.

The remarks by the Iranian envoy came after France intervened in Mali on January 11 by launching an air offensive under the pretext of halting the advance of the militants. France has also increased the number of its troops on the ground in the African country to 1,400.