Enduring Alliances: Iran and Venezuela’s Unbreakable Friendship and Solidarity, Says Envoy

Tehran and Caracas have been forging a robust strategic partnership since the presidency of Hugo Chávez. This partnership has gained momentum particularly with the 20-year cooperation roadmap signed during President Nicolás Maduro’s visit to Tehran in 2022, which emphasizes collaboration across various sectors such as energy, health, science and technology, transport, and education.

Over the past three years, Iran and Venezuela have strengthened their bilateral relations through high-level exchanges, multiple sessions of the Iran–Venezuela Joint Commission, and the culmination of an impressive 299 sectoral agreements. This dense agenda highlights the commitment of both nations to deepen their cooperation.

However, the regional security situation has notably deteriorated, primarily due to the increased military presence of the United States in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific. This escalation includes recent deployments of carrier strike groups and other advanced military assets, raising tensions and prompting Caracas to undertake extensive defensive measures. Moreover, Caracas refers to United Nations drug-trafficking data which indicates that the majority of narcotics originating from Colombia transit through Pacific routes, a fact that the Venezuelan government uses to counter US claims that Venezuela serves as a major transit hub for drugs.

This article delves into three interconnected themes: the institutional strengthening of Iran-Venezuela ties, Venezuela’s narrative of external coercion and maritime incidents, and the domestic mobilization efforts in response to these challenges. The insights provided by the Venezuelan ambassador to Iran, José Rafael Silva Aponte, shed light on how bilateral diplomacy and regional geopolitics are shaping the complex dynamics of sovereignty, security, and economic resilience.

Below is the complete text of the interview with José Rafael Silva Aponte:

What is the current state of political, economic, and diplomatic cooperation between Iran and Venezuela?

The ties between Iran and Venezuela have evolved since President Hugo Chávez took office in 1999, and they have continued to strengthen under President Nicolás Maduro. A significant milestone occurred in June 2022 when President Maduro visited Iran and met with President Ebrahim Raisi, resulting in the signing of a 20-year strategic cooperation agreement. This agreement encompasses various sectors, including energy, healthcare, science and technology, transportation, and education, thus solidifying the partnership.

Politically and diplomatically, our relations remain robust. Under the presidency of Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, two high-level meetings have occurred between our presidents. Additionally, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yván Gil have engaged in dialogue more than five times at international forums.

• Numerous delegations have traveled between our countries since 2022.
• A Venezuelan delegation attended the 9th session of the Iran-Venezuela Joint Commission in Iran, signing various memoranda of understanding.
• The 10th session was held in Venezuela in 2024, chaired by Iranian Defense Minister General Aziz Nasirzadeh, during which further agreements were signed.

Despite the attempts by imperialist forces to undermine the unity of our nations, the friendship and solidarity between Iran and Venezuela remain resilient.

How does Venezuela view the current US military threats?

The United States has initiated threats against Venezuela, beginning with a fabricated narrative linking President Maduro to a so-called terrorist group named Tren de Aragua. This group, dismantled by our armed forces years ago, has been falsely associated with drug cartels at the highest levels of our government.

According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Venezuela is neither a producer nor a transit country for illicit drugs. In fact, statistics reveal that 87% of narcotics produced in Colombia are trafficked to the United States via the Pacific Ocean, while only 5% is linked to attempts by criminal groups to route drugs through Venezuela to Europe.

In response to these challenges, the Venezuelan government has taken decisive actions to dismantle criminal organizations without resorting to violence. This proactive stance contrasts sharply with the recent military deployments by the US, which have included eight warships and various aircraft, raising questions about the true intentions behind such a significant military presence.

What measures has the Bolivarian government taken to protect national sovereignty?

In response to the US threats, President Maduro initiated a call for public mobilization, resulting in approximately eight million citizens registering to defend their homeland. The Bolivarian National Armed Forces, comprising five branches—army, navy, air force, and the Bolivarian militias—have seen numbers swell to eight million with volunteer enlistment.

In the first two weeks of this initiative, citizens responded positively, receiving basic military training. Under President Maduro’s direct orders, operations like “Operation Independence 200” have been launched to counter imperialist actions targeting Venezuelan peace and security.

Currently, military exercises are ongoing in northern Venezuela, covering states such as Zulia, Falcón, Carabobo, Aragua, Miranda, and Sucre. These defensive maneuvers aim to protect the Venezuelan coast amid ongoing US provocations.

• The US has attacked vessels in the region under the pretext of drug trafficking, leading to civilian casualties.
• These unlawful actions have drawn condemnation, with survivors from various nations bearing witness to the reality of these attacks.

These exercises, supervised by Defense Minister General Vladimir Padrino López, underscore Venezuela’s dedication to protecting its sovereignty and the well-being of its citizens.

How does the Venezuelan government address US accusations and threats?

It is well-established that the United States frequently disregards international law and human rights, often promoting unfounded narratives. The US has a track record of attempting to destabilize governments that resist its influence, as seen in countries like Syria, Libya, Iraq, and Iran.

Venezuela has formally raised these concerns in international forums, emphasizing the importance of respecting national sovereignty and rejecting undue threats and sanctions. The UN Human Rights Office has also highlighted human rights violations affecting Venezuelan citizens in maritime areas.

Despite the challenges, many allied nations, including Iran, Russia, China, and Belarus, have voiced their support for Venezuela. Civil society groups, including anti-war activists in the US, have also opposed US interventions in Latin America.

What is the historical context of US-Venezuela relations?

The Bolivarian Revolution began with Chávez’s rise to power in 1999, marking the start of heightened US hostility. Attempts to destabilize Venezuela have included a media-led coup in 2002, which ultimately failed due to the unity of the Venezuelan people and the loyalty of the armed forces.

Since then, the US has consistently sought to weaken the legitimate government of Venezuela through various means, including orchestrating unrest and coups. The overarching goal has been to seize Venezuela’s vast natural resources and strategic position.

In recent years, the United States has escalated its efforts to undermine the Bolivarian government, but the resolve of President Maduro and the Venezuelan people remains steadfast. Their commitment to defending independence, sovereignty, and dignity continues to shape the nation’s response to external pressures.

How is Venezuela collaborating with allies to counter US aggression?

Venezuela has received diplomatic support from friendly nations during recent sessions of the United Nations Security Council, where most members opposed US measures. The solidarity from countries like Iran and Brazil highlights that the stability of Venezuela is vital for the entire region.

As the Bolivarian government remains vigilant against these external threats, the focus on unity and defense of peace remains paramount. The commitment to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty and protect the achievements gained through perseverance continues to guide Venezuela’s international relations.