Iran Champions a Sovereign Syria: A Stand Against Terrorism and Occupation, Says U.N. Envoy
In a recent statement, Ambassador Amir Sa’eed Iravani, the Permanent Representative of Iran to the United Nations, emphasized Iran’s steadfast support for a stable, independent, and unified Syria. He called for a Syria that is free from terrorism, foreign occupation, and external interference.
Iravani firmly stated, “Iran has never taken any action to destabilize Syria or the region, and any attempt to distort the principled position of Iran is a biased and rejected action.” Below is the full text of his statement delivered during a Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East, specifically regarding Syria.
Statement by H.E. Mr. Amir Saeid Iravani
Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the United Nations
Before the United Nations Security Council
On “The situation in the Middle East: (Syria)”
New York, 25 April 2025
Thank you, Mr. President.
As this is the first time my delegation takes the floor this month, I wish to congratulate France on assuming the Presidency of the Security Council. I also commend Denmark for its effective leadership and the successful conclusion of its Presidency in March. We appreciate Mr. Pedersen, the Special Envoy, and Ms. Joyce Msuya, the Assistant-Secretary-General, for their insightful briefings. We acknowledge the presence of HE. Mr. Assad Hassan Al-Shaibani in today’s meeting. In light of the evolving situation in the Syrian Arab Republic, I wish to make the following points:
- Commitment to Syrian Sovereignty: Iran reaffirms its 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. Ending their occupation is essential for restoring Syria’s sovereignty and achieving lasting peace. The Israeli regime’s escalating military aggression against Syria constitutes a blatant violation of international law, posing a serious threat to international peace and security.
- Humanitarian Crisis: Despite the UN’s efforts, Syria is facing a severe humanitarian crisis with around 16.7 million people in need of aid, the highest level since 2011. More than 7 million individuals are internally displaced, and humanitarian efforts are severely underfunded. We call for the immediate and unconditional removal of U.S. sanctions on Syria, which are unjustified and exacerbate the suffering of the Syrian population.
- Tragic Loss of Civilian Life: We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of civilian life in Latakia and Tartus on 6 March, particularly among the Alawite community. We support the Security Council’s call for an independent and transparent investigation to ensure accountability.
- Combating Terrorism: Iran stresses the importance of fighting terrorism in Syria, particularly from foreign terrorist fighters (FTFs). These groups pose a serious threat to Syria and the wider region. Iran is ready to collaborate with responsible partners to combat terrorism and ensure that FTFs are held accountable under international law.
- Political Process in Syria: Iran supports a Syrian-led, Syrian-owned political process in line with Security Council Resolution 2254 (2015). A peaceful solution must include free and fair elections, national dialogue, and an inclusive government that represents all Syrians.
Finally, Iran’s position on Syria is clear and consistent: we support a sovereign, stable, and united Syria, free from terrorism, occupation, and foreign interference. Iran has never taken any action to destabilize Syria or the region. Any attempt to distort Iran’s position is politically motivated and categorically rejected.
I thank you, Mr. President.
