Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has stated that young Syrians will resist the new government following the overthrow of President Bashar Assad, attributing chaos in Syria to U.S. and Israeli interference. He emphasized Iranian support for Assad and declared that the youth of Syria must stand resolute against foreign adversaries. Khamenei denied that Iranian-aligned groups are proxies, asserting they fight due to their own beliefs.
In a recent address, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei asserted that young Syrians are poised to resist the emerging government that will follow the ousting of President Bashar Assad. He reiterated accusations that the United States and Israel are responsible for destabilizing the Syrian state and sowing chaos amidst their quest for dominance in the region. Khamenei emphasized that the youth of Syria have nothing to lose in their struggle for stability following Assad’s fall, advocating for a firm resolve against foreign interference.
Khamenei underscored Iran’s long-standing support for Assad during Syria’s prolonged civil conflict, which commenced when the Assad regime aggressively suppressed initial protests. He pointed out that Syria has historically served as a significant route for Iranian assistance to Hezbollah, an ally in the region. In his remarks, Khamenei claimed that the insecurity faced by Syrian youths is a direct consequence of actions taken by external powers, specifically blaming the United States and Israel for orchestrating a campaign against Assad to seize Syria’s resources.
He further claimed that the strategic setbacks for Iranian-aligned groups, such as the military engagements in Gaza and Lebanon, do not imply a reliance on these groups. “If one day we plan to take action, we do not need proxy force,” he declared, asserting that these groups fight out of their own convictions rather than being mere extensions of Iranian influence. Despite recent regional challenges, Khamenei remains resolute in his support for the Syrian cause and urges the youth to stand united against foreign adversaries.
The ongoing conflict in Syria, which began in 2011, has acted as a battleground for various foreign powers and local factions. President Bashar Assad’s regime has faced significant opposition, prompting a prolonged civil war that has led to extensive loss of life and widespread displacement. Iran has steadfastly backed Assad, viewing Syria as a critical ally and a strategic partner, particularly in facilitating support to Hezbollah. As the situation continues to evolve, the role of youth in Syria and their resistance to external interference become focal points for leaders like Khamenei, who are concerned about the geopolitical implications of a changing government.
In summary, the statements made by Ayatollah Ali Khamenei highlight Iran’s commitment to supporting the youth of Syria amid the complexities arising from Assad’s government facing challenges. His accusation of the United States and Israel as instigators of chaos underscores Iran’s view of the ongoing power struggles in the region. Furthermore, Khamenei’s reiteration of Iran’s non-reliance on proxy forces emphasizes a strategic narrative aimed at solidifying regional alliances while promoting a sense of agency among Syrian youth.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com