Tehran has strongly reaffirmed its long-standing policies following controversial remarks by Turkey’s Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei emphasized that Iran’s positions remain consistent and do not shift arbitrarily.
Iran Stands Firm on Policy and Regional Stability
In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, Baghaei stated, “We are steadfast in our principled positions and do not shift from one policy to another every day. The Islamic Republic of Iran has always supported resistance while honestly confronting illegal behavior and terrorism.”
Highlighting Iran’s leading role in fighting terrorism, Baghaei recalled Iran’s early and decisive actions against Daesh (ISIS). He underscored the efforts of anti-terror commander General Qassem Soleimani, who played a critical role in eliminating extremist threats in the region.
Iran’s Support for Regional Stability
Baghaei also reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to stability in neighboring countries. He pointed out that Iran was among the first nations to oppose the attempted coup against the Turkish government in 2016. Additionally, Tehran welcomed the Kurdistan Workers’ Party’s (PKK) disarmament, viewing it as a significant step toward enhancing Turkey’s security.
His comments followed an appeal by Abdullah Öcalan, the jailed founder of the PKK, urging the militant group to lay down arms in pursuit of peace. The PKK conflict has spanned decades, resulting in tens of thousands of casualties.
Concerns Over US and Israeli Influence
Baghaei cautioned against ignoring external influences in regional affairs. “The overt and covert hands of the US and Israel in regional developments must not be overlooked,” he warned, attributing much of the instability to foreign interference.
Quoting Turkish Foreign Minister Fidan, who recently stated that “the region must be freed from the culture of one country dominating others,” Baghaei questioned why Israel was excluded from this discourse.
“But what about Israel?” he asked, pointing to the country’s aggressive actions in Syria and its broader expansionist agenda.
Israel’s Actions in Syria Under Scrutiny
Baghaei criticized Israel’s escalating military operations in Syria, particularly following the fall of Damascus on December 8, 2024. He claimed that within days of Damascus’ collapse, Israeli forces launched extensive strikes on Syrian military and research infrastructure, destroying over 90% of key facilities.
Furthermore, he accused Israel of reoccupying the Golan Heights and seizing strategic portions of Syrian territory. This, he argued, aligned with Israel’s broader ambitions rather than just security concerns.
Netanyahu’s Controversial Visit to Syria
Baghaei also referenced Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s December 2024 visit to Mount Hermon in Syria, describing it as part of the so-called “Greater Israel project.” While Netanyahu framed the visit as a military assessment, political analysts have suggested that it reflects a long-term expansionist strategy.
Additionally, Baghaei accused Israel of controlling Syria’s most critical water sources and repeatedly violating the country’s sovereignty.
Iran Reaffirms Commitment to Palestine
Addressing Iran’s regional priorities, Baghaei rejected claims that Tehran harbors territorial ambitions. He reiterated that Iran’s primary focus remains supporting Palestine against Israeli occupation.
“The issue of Palestine is more alive than ever, and Israel is more hated than ever,” he stated, condemning forced displacements in Gaza and annexation plans for the occupied West Bank.
Baghaei also criticized recent comments by former US President Donald Trump regarding Palestinian displacement, arguing that such actions would not be possible without betrayal by certain regional actors.
Iran’s response to Fidan’s remarks highlights its unwavering stance on regional security and opposition to foreign interference. As tensions persist, Tehran continues to advocate for stability, resistance against terrorism, and support for Palestine.
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