In a sharp rebuke to recent claims by Iranian officials, a source close to Syria’s new political leadership has categorically denied any ongoing diplomatic discussions with Iran regarding the reopening of embassies in Damascus and Tehran. The denial follows statements made by Iranian government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani, who claimed on Tuesday that talks were underway to restore diplomatic relations and reopen embassies between the two countries.
The Syrian source, speaking to Al-Arabiya on December 24, rejected these assertions, stating, “There has been no communication between the Syrian political administration and Iran, including diplomatic discussions about reopening embassies or consulates.” The source further confirmed that Syria’s new leadership has no plans to establish ties with Iran in the foreseeable future, neither concerning an embassy in Damascus nor an Iranian consulate in Aleppo.
In addition to distancing itself diplomatically, the Syrian government is reportedly preparing to file an international lawsuit against Iran. The source revealed that the case seeks $300 billion in reparations for damages allegedly caused by the Iranian regime’s military involvement and support for the now-deposed Assad regime. “This compensation is based on the destruction of infrastructure, crimes against the Syrian people, and active participation in the violent suppression of peaceful protests,” the source told Al-Mudun.
The legal filing, according to the source, aims to hold the clerical regime accountable for its role in “criminal and oppressive policies” that have devastated Syria’s infrastructure and contributed to immense human suffering. These actions, the source added, include Iran’s deployment of military personnel and proxy militias to bolster the Assad regime during Syria’s protracted civil war.
Mohajerani’s statements appear to contradict earlier remarks by Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baqaei, who had indicated that Iran has limited contact with Syria’s new leadership. While Baqaei claimed that Tehran was engaging with various opposition factions, he noted that there was no direct communication with the current ruling administration in Damascus.
Mohajerani, however, asserted during her weekly press conference, “We are committed to diplomacy and are prepared for discussions. Talks are underway regarding the reopening of embassies.” This apparent inconsistency reflects a broader state of disarray in Tehran’s messaging on its relationship with Syria, further highlighting the regime’s waning influence in the region.
The Syrian government’s strong rejection of ties with Iran and its planned lawsuit signal a decisive break from the policies of the previous regime under Bashar al-Assad. The move to seek reparations and distance itself from Iran marks a significant realignment in Syria’s foreign policy, emphasizing accountability and rebuilding efforts.
This development underscores the Iranian regime’s diminishing influence in the Middle East, as neighboring countries seek to hold Tehran responsible for its interventions and their devastating consequences. Whether the international community will back Syria’s efforts remains to be seen, but the clear message from Damascus is that Tehran’s role in the country’s turmoil will not be forgotten or forgiven.
Source » ncr-iran