Iran FM: It is premature to forecast Syria’s future for those who presume recent ‘victories’ have been secured
Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has stated that it is "premature" to forecast the future trajectory of Syria, given the numerous unfolding developments in the nation after the removal of President Bashar al-Assad's administration.
Araghchi stated that it is too early to draw conclusions regarding Syria’s future, highlighting that a multitude of elements will influence the nation’s trajectory, resulting in a profoundly uncertain outlook.
Iran’s top diplomat observed that although certain parties might assert that they have secured victories, the broader situation continues to be unpredictable.
The militant organization Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) has assumed control over Syria, effectively ending President Bashar al-Assad’s 24-year regime earlier this month.
In statements made the day before, Iranian government spokeswoman Fatemeh Mohajerani underscored the critical importance of establishing a Syrian government rooted in the will of its people. This, she noted, remains a primary focus for Iran. The following day, Iranian diplomat Araghchi echoed these sentiments.
She emphasized the urgent need to curb the proliferation and advancement of terrorism, highlighting its profound impact on Syria and the broader region.
In a weekly press briefing held in Tehran on Monday, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei reaffirmed the Islamic Republic’s steadfast dedication to safeguarding Syria’s national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
He claimed that the Syrian populace possesses the sole authority to determine their own destiny, without any external intervention.
In a swift and unexpected offensive, militants led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) seized control of Damascus on December 8, effectively announcing the termination of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime. The operation began in the northwestern stronghold and remarkably advanced to the capital within a fortnight.
The HTS militant group, which receives backing from the United States and its regional partners, has pledged to establish an inclusive government. However, the United Nations has described the situation as “fluid,” indicating ongoing uncertainties.
Regional countries have called on Syrians to take immediate action to prevent further destabilization following the takeover of Damascus by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). The plea comes amid heightened tensions and concerns over potential unrest in the capital.
Syria’s stability and future face significant challenges due to multiple factors, including Israel’s occupation of Syrian land, which is viewed as part of its expansionist agenda, and the continued presence of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in the northeast, a group supported by the United States.
Additional challenges arise from human rights violations perpetrated against minority groups by HTS militants, coupled with worsening humanitarian crises.
