Ali Akbar Velayati, advisor to Iran’s Supreme Leader, warned of a potential civil war in Syria and criticized Turkey’s statements as exaggerated. He urged Turkey to observe diplomatic norms, underscoring the increasing tensions between the two countries over their contrasting roles in the Syrian conflict. Diplomatic interactions have deteriorated with incidents of summoning officials from both sides.
On Wednesday, Ali Akbar Velayati, an advisor to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, expressed grave concerns regarding the potential for a civil war in Syria. He stated that such a conflict could erupt at any moment, asserting the unpredictability of Syria’s future and citing evidence that hints at the country’s division.
Velayati admonished Turkish officials to observe diplomatic protocols, branding Turkey’s statements as “exaggerations.” He emphasized that Tehran will take a firm stand against these claims and will not remain passive in the face of perceived provocations from Ankara.
The relationship between Turkey and Iran has been historically strained, particularly following the fall of the preceding Syrian regime, with Iran frequently condemning Turkey’s support for opposition groups that facilitated Bashar al-Assad’s decline. Conversely, Turkey suspects Iran of inflaming hostilities among certain factions, especially within Alawite-majority regions.
As tensions have escalated, the Turkish Foreign Ministry summoned Iran’s chargé d’affaires on Tuesday, shortly after Iran called in Turkish Ambassador Hicabi Kırlangıç to express its displeasure regarding the ongoing situation.
In summary, Ali Akbar Velayati’s warning highlights the precarious nature of the situation in Syria, indicating that civil war remains a looming threat. His call for diplomacy reflects growing tensions between Turkey and Iran, exacerbated by historical grievances and mutual accusations. Both nations must navigate these challenges carefully to avoid further escalation.
Original Source: shafaq.com
