US blames Syria's allies for terror offensive, denies responsibility

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
Today 07:15

The US, which occupies several areas in Syria and backs insurgency in the country, said it has nothing to do with the HTS terror offensive.

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A United States flag is seen in front of the White House, Washington, the United States, on February 26, 2018. (AP)

The United States blamed Russia and Iran for the terror offensive that targeted the city of Aleppo and other Syrian towns.

Syria's "reliance on Russia and Iran... created the conditions now unfolding," National Security Council spokesperson Sean Savett said in a statement.

"At the same time, the United States has nothing to do with this offensive, which is led by Hayat Tahir al-Sham (HTS), a designated terrorist organization."

It is worth noting that both Iran and Russia have backed the Syrian government in its fight against terror, while the United States has sanctioned the Syrian people and occupied and backed insurgency in the country.

Earlier on Saturday, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad held discussions with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani and Emirati President Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan, focusing on counterterrorism efforts and regional developments.

In a phone call with al-Assad, al-Sudani emphasized that "the security of Syria and Iraq is interconnected" and reiterated Iraq's readiness to provide full support to Syria in combating terrorism and its organizations. He further affirmed Iraq's commitment to Syria's stability, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

President Assad also spoke with the UAE's President, addressing recent developments in Syria and broader regional issues. Al-Assad stressed in the call that Syria remains committed to defending its stability and territorial integrity against terrorist threats and their supporters. He asserted that with the backing of allies and friends, Damascus is determined to overcome these challenges and eliminate terrorist groups.

For his part, al-Nahyan reaffirmed the UAE's solidarity with Syria, expressing his country's support for Syria's fight against terrorism and efforts to maintain sovereignty, stability, and territorial unity.