Rouhani: We are ready to discuss actions in Syria after expelling 'terrorists'

Hassan Rouhani, the President of Iran, stated in an interview with National Public Radio (NPR) that his government is prepared to discuss a 'viable plan' for Syria after the expulsion of 'terrorists.' Rouhani, who traveled to New York early Friday to participate in the leaders' summit at the United Nations General Assembly, said on Sunday, October 5, in the NPR interview, 'We have no problem discussing and negotiating to determine a practical plan in Syria after the terrorists are expelled from this country, but everyone must act in coordination and quickly reach the necessary formula to expel the terrorists.' Tehran and Moscow are considered the main supporters of Bashar al-Assad's government. Iran has so far been sidelined from UN diplomatic efforts to find a political solution to end the war in Syria. However, it seems that the US and its allies are reconsidering their strategy in the fight against the group known as the 'Islamic State' in Syria. Recently, some senior European officials have also hinted at the necessity of dialogue with Iran to end the crisis in Syria. In recent weeks, Russia has also strengthened its military presence in Syria to assist Bashar al-Assad. US Secretary of State John Kerry, on Saturday, October 4, after meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, mentioned Yemen and Syria, stating that several countries, including Iran, could play a role in resolving some acute Middle Eastern issues. Reports indicate that the US and the West no longer see Bashar al-Assad's departure as a prerequisite for peace negotiations and believe he can play a role in the transitional phase. In his NPR interview, Rouhani reiterated that 'the Syrian government must participate in negotiations to reach an action plan.' The Iranian president also stated in this radio interview that 'it is the Syrian people who must have the final and most important say about the future of their country.' It is expected that Hassan Rouhani will address the Islamic Republic's positions regarding Syria in his speech at the UN on Tuesday, following the speeches of Obama and Putin. In an interview with CNN, which aired on Sunday, he said Tehran does not have 'direct' dialogue with Washington over Syria but engages in indirect discussions through the European Union and the United Nations. He emphasized that for the Islamic Republic, 'the priority in Syria is to strengthen the central government to end terrorism and bloodshed, the return of refugees, and political reforms.' Regarding Iran's policy towards the US after the nuclear agreement, Rouhani said, 'Tensions between the two countries can be reduced within the framework of a correct and constructive relationship based on mutual respect, and if we see serious commitment in implementing the nuclear agreements and the complete lifting of sanctions, perhaps the possibility of dialogue on other issues will also be created.'