“As the guarantor states of the Astana Process, we always support Syrian-Syrian dialogue within the framework of the agreements under the Astana Process, and reaffirm our determination to fight against the terrorism of Daesh, al-Qaeda, and their other offshoots across the entire region, as in Syria,” Rouhani said in an address to an online summit of the Astana Peace Process on Wednesday.
In the meeting, held via videoconference, the Iranian president said the war on terrorism must continue until it is totally eradicated in Syria and the region, but emphasized the need to protect civilian lives in this battle. “We must not allow the terrorists to use people as human shields.”
Rouhani also condemned the US sanctions against Syria as an act of economic terrorism, stressing that Iran will continue to support the Syrian people and legitimate government more vigorously.
“The US regime’s illegitimate and inhumane measures will by no means weaken the resolve of Syria’s friends and allies,” he said.
Rouhani further emphasized that the crisis in Syria has only a political, not military solution, reminding the US that economic pressures against Syria will not help it achieve what it has failed to obtain by military pressures and resorting to terrorist groups.
The Iranian president also highlighted the significance of respecting Syria’s national sovereignty and independence, saying a united and independent Syria without the illegitimate presence of foreign forces will help restore calm to the Arab country and ensure the stability and security of its neighbors.
Iran, Russia and Turkey, as guarantors of the Astana Process, are working to reinforce the Syrian-Syrian dialogue and let Syrians decide their future by establishing de-escalation zones, forming a constitutional committee, and following up on the dialogue process and national reconciliation.