Iran backs sovereign, stable Syria free of terrorism, UN envoy says

Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations has reaffirmed Tehran’s support for a sovereign, stable, and united Syria, free from terrorism, occupation, and foreign interference.

In remarks at the UN, Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani emphasized the importance of “fighting terrorism in Syria, especially from foreign terrorist fighters (FTFs).” He described these groups as a “serious threat to Syria and the wider region.”

“FTFs must be returned to their countries and held accountable under international law. Iran is ready to work with all responsible partners to fight terrorism,” Iravani stated.

The Iranian mission also addressed the “tragic loss of civilian life in Latakia and Tartus on March 6, especially among the Alawite community,” expressing Tehran’s support for “the Security Council’s call for an independent and transparent investigation.”

“Syria’s interim authorities must ensure accountability and protect all communities in line with international law,” Iravani noted.

He also reaffirmed Iran’s “unwavering commitment to the sovereignty, political independence, and territorial integrity of the Syrian Arab Republic.”

“We call for the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of all foreign forces that are in Syria illegally,” he said, stressing that ending this occupation is “essential for restoring Syria’s sovereignty and achieving lasting peace.”

Iravani condemned the Israeli regime’s acts of aggression against Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, describing them as “a blatant violation of international law, the United Nations Charter, relevant Security Council resolutions, and the 1974 Disengagement Agreement.”

He cited the “latest UNDOF report which confirms Israel’s illegal incursions into the buffer zone and details the occupying forces’ abuses,” warning that the Israeli regime’s acts of aggression in Syria pose a “serious threat to international peace and security.”

The Iranian envoy further criticized Israeli forces for establishing “military outposts and promoting tourism in the occupied areas,” calling it clear evidence of Israel’s “expansionist agenda.”

According to Iravani, Israel’s objective is the systematic destruction of Syria’s infrastructure and the dismantling of its military and defensive capabilities, leaving the country unable to defend itself against further aggression.

The envoy also stated that Israeli acts of aggression in Syria “are possible only because of full US political and military support,” holding the US “directly responsible for Israel’s continued violations.”

In response to these “violations,” Iravani urged the Security Council to “act now,” warning that silence “encourages further aggression and impunity, just as we are tragically witnessing in Gaza.”

He also drew attention to the “severe humanitarian crisis” in Syria, noting that “around 16.7 million people, over 70% of the population, need aid, the highest level since 2011.”

“More than 7 million individuals are internally displaced, and millions more have sought refuge in neighboring countries. Humanitarian efforts are underfunded,” he warned.

Addressing the impact of US sanctions, Iravani said, “We are deeply concerned about the continued US sanctions on Syria,” describing them as “unjustified.”

Iravani called for the “immediate and unconditional removal” of sanctions on Syria, stating that such measures “block reconstruction, hurt the economy, and prevent refugees from returning.”

The Iranian envoy also emphasized that Tehran has never taken any action to destabilize Syria or the region, rejecting attempts to distort Iran’s position as "politically motivated."

He reaffirmed Iran’s support for a “Syrian-led, Syrian-owned political process, in line with Security Council Resolution 2254 (2015),” stressing the need for “free and fair elections, a national dialogue, and an inclusive government” as the foundation for a “peaceful solution.”

“The United Nations must lead this process fairly while respecting Syria’s sovereignty,” Iravani urged.

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