Iranian diplomat deplores West’s unilateral, illegal sanctions against Syria

A senior Iranian diplomat has condemned the West for the imposition of unilateral and unlawful sanctions on the Syrian people censuring the international community for its inaction.

Ali Asghar Khaji, a Senior Aide on Political Affairs to Iran’s Foreign Minister, made the remarks on Saturday during a meeting between representatives of Astana guarantor states in the Syrian peace process, including Russia and Turkey, and the United Nations Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen.

Khaji slammed the West for “unilateral and illegal sanctions against Syrian people” and saying no to Syria's reconstruction until there is a political process on track [meaning a transition away from Syrian President Bashar al-Assad].

He also condemned “the Israeli regime's growing attacks targeting Syrian infrastructure and civilian areas amid international communities’ inaction.”

Pedersen, for his part, thanked Iran, Russia, and Turkey for their cooperation and support for continued consultations with the Syrian Constitutional Committee.

The senior UN official also elaborated on the latest round of talks among Syrian parties within the framework of the constitutional committee talks saying that the “encouraging and positive ambiance” could “pave the way for better results in the future.”

The senior diplomats of the three guarantor states also outlined their views regarding recent developments in Syria and expressed concern over the uptick in the suffering of the Syrian people.

The meeting was held at the end of the 8th round of Syrian Constitutional Committee talks.

MG