Iran is the decision maker in Syria, says Syria’s vice president

Syria represents a strategic site for Russia which wants to strengthen its presence in the region. The US reluctant position enabled Tehran and Moscow to intervene, Abdelhalim Kheddam, Syria’s former vice-president and symbol of the Syrian regime told Echorouk in an interview.

How do you assess the general scene in Syria?

The situation is very difficult. Massacres and immigration are still going on. Now, the conflict is with the killing regime in Syria, Iran and Russia as well. Tehran sends experts, arms and fighters. Moscow sends weapons. A few days ago, Bachar Al Assad was offered sophisticated arms. If Iran and Russia did not intervene, he would have been killed or detained.

Why did Russia intervene?

Russia considers Syria as a region where it can ensure the safety of its interests in the Middle East.

There is rapprochement between Russia and Iran. What is the reason?

It is interests. Iran is situated between Russia and Europe. It constitutes a base for Russia to ensure its interests in the Middle East.

What about the Iranian-US rapprochement?

It is all about interests. The US thought if Iran stopped its nuclear project, it would be like the other countries. Yet, the Obama administration was wrong.

The Arab Spring toppled a number of dictators. Tunisia’s Zinelabiddine and Egypt’s Mubarek were toppled in less than a month. Lybia’s Gaddafi was killed. Yet, Al Assad is still in power. How do you explain that?

Because he is not the decision maker in Syria. It is Iran then Russia.

What do you think of the Arab regimes’ position toward the Syrian crisis?

Arab states did not accomplish their role properly.

Why did you visit Saudi Arabia?

I explained the Syrian situation.

Turkey received two million Syrian refugees. Do you think it did that for political or humanitarian reasons?

Turkey offered an incomparable service. Syrian people will not forget what Erdogan did to them.

Earlier, you said you are part of the regime and you are ready to appear in court. Do you have the same position?

Yes, I was part of the Syrian regime. I am ready to appear in international or Arab court.

So, you admit that you took part in the current situation in Syria.

I was a main part in the regime. I was in charge of foreign affairs. I was not involved in interior affairs. The president was behind all the interne decisions. Sometimes, he formed commissions. Syrians were proud of their country’s foreign policy.

What do you think of Hafid Al Assad?

He is a dictator

What do you think of Khamenei?

He is a smart man and he served Iran. Yet, he disappointed Syrians by his position.