In response to a question about possible military actions by Turkey on the Syria-Iraq border, Khatibzadeh noted that Tehran views such military actions as a violation of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of those countries and believes this will only further complicate the situation and intensify tensions.

The Foreign Ministry spokesman added that Iran understands Turkey’s security concerns. Khatibzadeh however noted that Tehran believes that the only way to dispel those concerns is dialog, respect for bilateral agreements with neighbors and also treaties reached within the framework of the Astana platform, including respect for Syria’s territorial integrity and national sovereignty, and observing the principle of avoiding the use of force.

Khatibzadeh maintained that experience gained over the past years has shown that military actions in other countries not only do not help resolve bilateral disputes but they have had serious humanitarian consequences and will further complicate the situation in the region.

In the end, Khatibzadeh invited friendly and neighboring countries to interaction and constructive dialog.

He said Iran is ready to play a role and do its best as before to prevent the escalation of the crisis and any clash whose victims will only be defenseless people and civilians. (ILKHA)