Iran Urges Syrian Interim Authorities to Act Against Mass Killing of Civilians

Amir Saeid Iravani, Iran’s permanent representative to the UN, addressed the Security Council meeting on Syria, rejecting US accusations regarding Iran’s regional policies. “The Islamic Republic of Iran seeks to establish lasting stability and security in Syria and does not engage in any destabilizing activities in Syria or the region,” Iravani said.

Condemnation of Violence in Syria

Iravani condemned the widespread violence in Latakia and Tartus since March 6, which has resulted in mass civilian casualties. He urged interim authorities to take decisive measures to end violence, protect civilians, and ensure unrestricted humanitarian aid access. “All communities’ rights must be respected, and any attempts at forced displacement, particularly of Alawites and Shiite minorities, must be immediately halted,” he stated.

Iran welcomed the UN Security Council’s March 14 presidential statement, which condemned the attacks and called for a thorough, independent investigation. “Interim authorities must ensure full accountability and bring perpetrators to justice without delay,” Iravani emphasized.

Counterterrorism Efforts

Highlighting the need to combat terrorism in Syria, Iravani warned of the serious threat posed by foreign terrorist fighters to regional and global security. “This transnational threat requires coordinated collective action,” he said. Iran reiterated the Security Council’s call for interim authorities to take decisive counterterrorism measures, prosecute foreign fighters, and prevent further destabilization. “The Islamic Republic of Iran remains committed to fighting terrorism and is ready to collaborate with legitimate international partners to address this challenge,” Iravani added.

Condemnation of Israeli Strikes

Expressing deep concern over repeated Israeli violations of Syrian sovereignty, Iravani condemned recent airstrikes, including those on Daraa, which resulted in civilian casualties and heightened regional tensions. “These aggressions are blatant violations of international law and exacerbate regional instability,” he said. He also denounced Israel’s continued occupation of the Golan Heights as a major obstacle to peace and security. Referring to UN Security Council Resolution 497, he reiterated that Israel’s annexation of the Golan is “null and void under international law.” Iran called on the Security Council to take decisive action to halt Israeli violations and enforce a full withdrawal from occupied Syrian territories.

Economic Challenges and Sanctions

Iravani highlighted Syria’s severe humanitarian and economic challenges, stressing the need for immediate reconstruction and restoration of essential services. However, he criticized US and EU sanctions for obstructing Syria’s recovery and disproportionately harming vulnerable populations. While welcoming the EU’s recent suspension of sanctions in the transportation, energy, and banking sectors, he insisted, “This step is insufficient. All unlawful sanctions must be fully lifted to facilitate Syria’s reconstruction and ensure the safe return of refugees.”

Political Process and Syrian Sovereignty

Iran reiterated that Syria’s future must be determined solely by its people, free from external interference. “Iran supports the establishment of an inclusive government through free elections and comprehensive national dialogue that ensures fair representation for all communities,” Iravani stated. He emphasized the importance of a Syrian-led political process under UN facilitation, in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2254. “A new constitution should strengthen national unity rather than deepen ethnic or sectarian divisions,” he added, underscoring Iran’s support for the UN special envoy’s efforts.

Reintegration into the International Community

Welcoming Syria’s return to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation after 13 years, Iravani said this development allows Syria to reclaim its role as an active member of the international community. He reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, pledging to play a constructive role in achieving lasting peace and stability.

Rejection of U.S. Allegations

Iravani strongly rejected the baseless accusations by the US representative, slamming Washington for distorting facts to mislead the international community. “For years, the US has openly violated Syria’s sovereignty under the guise of counterterrorism, strengthened terrorist groups, and supported Israel’s occupation for its geopolitical interests,” he argued.

He blamed Syria’s ongoing humanitarian crisis and economic hardships on US sanctions, calling them “a direct violation of fundamental human rights.” “These are undeniable realities that the US cannot erase through deception, distortion, or unfounded accusations against Iran. The Islamic Republic remains committed to achieving lasting stability and security in Syria and does not engage in any destabilizing activities in the region,” Iravani concluded.