Iran Reaffirms Commitment to Supporting the Syrian People Amid Ongoing Crisis

Iran’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Amir Saeid Iravani, recently addressed the UN Security Council, emphasizing the Islamic Republic of Iran’s commitment to support the Syrian people in their quest for peace, stability, and reconstruction. This statement highlights Iran’s position on the ongoing crisis in Syria and its implications for regional stability.

The full text of Ambassador Iravani’s speech at the UN session in New York on September 18, 2025, is as follows:

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, 18 September 2025

Thank you, Mr. President.

We express our gratitude to Special Envoy Mr. Pedersen and Under Secretary Mr. Fletcher for their informative and insightful briefings. We have duly noted the statement delivered by Ms. Majd Chourbaji.

Key Issues Discussed

On the situation in Syria, I wish to address several critical points:

1. Humanitarian Situation:
   The humanitarian crisis in Syria is severe and continues to worsen. Critical funding shortages threaten essential aid operations, leaving millions of Syrians at risk. We commend the efforts of OCHA, UN agencies, and humanitarian partners who tirelessly work to provide assistance under challenging conditions. It is crucial to ensure full, safe, rapid, and unhindered humanitarian access to all affected communities, adhering strictly to the principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence.
2. Economic Challenges:
   Beyond immediate humanitarian relief, Syria faces significant economic hurdles and a worsening food crisis. Factors such as inflation, destroyed infrastructure, disrupted supply chains, energy shortages, and recurring droughts threaten the survival of millions. These challenges stem from years of unilateral coercive measures imposed on Syria—measures that are illegal and violate the Charter of the United Nations. The lifting of these sanctions is imperative to allow Syria to rebuild its economy, restore livelihoods, and facilitate the safe return of refugees and internally displaced persons. Sanctions should never serve as tools for political coercion or interference in Syria’s affairs.
3. Security Situation:
   The ceasefire arrangements in Syria remain fragile, with ongoing insecurity in regions such as Sweida. Groups like Da’esh, Al-Qaida, and affiliated foreign terrorist fighters continue to threaten stability in Syria and the broader region, undermining both regional and international peace and security. Furthermore, the Security Council must address the destabilizing actions of the Israeli regime, which persistently conducts airstrikes against Syrian territory, violating international law and the UN Charter.
4. Political Process:
   Lasting peace and stability in Syria can only be achieved through a comprehensive, Syrian-owned, and Syrian-led political process free from foreign interference. This process should be genuinely inclusive, ensuring representation from all communities. Excluding significant groups would only deepen grievances and risk further destabilization. It is vital that such a process respects the legitimate rights and aspirations of all Syrians while preserving Syria’s sovereignty, independence, unity, and national institutions. We support the recent diplomatic engagements by the Special Envoy with Syrian authorities in Damascus concerning an inclusive political transition.
5. Iran’s Position:
   Iran reiterates the necessity of fully respecting Syria’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. Any attempts to impose external agendas or fragment the nation are unacceptable. We express concerns regarding demands for federalization or autonomy that, if mishandled, could lead to fragmentation and renewed conflict. However, if addressed responsibly through inclusive national dialogue under UN auspices, these aspirations could foster reconciliation and stability.

In conclusion, Iran remains committed to supporting the Syrian people in their ongoing efforts to achieve peace, stability, reconstruction, and national reconciliation, fully aligned with the will of the Syrian people themselves.

I thank you, Mr. President.

MNA/