The leader of the Islamic Revolution and the Islamic Republic of Iran Sayyed Ali Khamenei met with Bashar al-Assad on Thursday, commending the Syrian president for maintaining Syria's enduring resistance-based identity.

During a meeting with President Bashar al-Assad and his delegation in Tehran on Thursday, Sayyed Khamenei regarded Resistance as Syria's esteemed identity, stressing that Syria's unique position in the region stems from this identity, which must be safeguarded.

The Iranian leader expressed gratitude to al-Assad for visiting Tehran to offer condolences to the Iranian people following the passing of President Raisi, highlighting the late Iranian president's influential role in enhancing relations between Iran and Syria.

He also acknowledged the significant contribution of Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian in strengthening the ties between Tehran and Damascus.

Furthermore, Sayyed Khamenei emphasized the importance of enhancing relations between Iran and Syria, considering them as pivotal components of the Axis of Resistance.

He highlighted that Syria's esteemed identity, rooted in resistance, was cultivated during the tenure of the late Hafez al-Assad and with the establishment of the Resistance Front. This identity, he noted, has consistently upheld Syria's national unity.

Khamenei slams Western intervention

Stressing the imperative of safeguarding Syria's resistance identity, the Iranian leader highlighted how Western nations and their allies in the region sought to overthrow Syria's political system and eliminate its regional significance through warfare but failed in their attempts.

He noted that Western powers are now aiming to sideline Syria from regional affairs using alternative methods, including unfulfilled promises.

Sayyed Khamenei praised President Bashar al-Assad's steadfast positions, underlining the unique strength of the Syrian government, which lies in its commitment to resistance.

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He addressed the political and economic pressures imposed by the US and Europe on Iran and Syria, advocating for increased cooperation between the two nations as a means to overcome these challenges.

Regarding the late President Raisi's efforts to enhance cooperation between Iran and Syria across various sectors, the leader highlighted that Mohammad Mokhber, currently acting as president, is treading on the same path.

He criticized the positions and inaction of certain regional countries concerning the ongoing Israeli aggression on Gaza.

Furthermore, he commented on the recent gathering of Arab leaders in Bahrain's capital, Manama, criticizing some attendees for their inadequate response to the Palestinian cause and war on Gaza.

Strengthening bonds

During the meeting, Sayyed Khamenei also emphasized Iran's optimistic outlook for the region, expressing hope that collective responsibility would lead to a brighter future.

President Bashar al-Assad underscored the strategic nature of Iran-Syria relations, crediting the guidance of the late leader of the Islamic Revolution, martyr Raisi, and the proactive role of Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian for advancing this partnership.

Reflecting on President Raisi's character, al-Assad lauded his embodiment of the values and aspirations of the Islamic Revolution, highlighting the late president's significant contributions to Iran's regional role and its relations with Syria.

Al-Assad noted the evolution of the Resistance paradigm in the region over the past five decades, stressing Syria's unwavering stance against Western pressure and affirming that the costs of Resistance outweigh those of compromise.

In light of recent events in Gaza and victories achieved by the Resistance, al-Assad asserted the principle of Resistance as a pivotal force in the region.

He expressed gratitude for the leader's steadfast support for regional Resistance movements and Syria across various domains.

In conclusion, Sayyed Khamenei reiterated al-Assad's stance on Resistance against Western encroachment, affirming Iran's enduring commitment to this principle over the past four decades.

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