Russia, Turkey, Iran meet ahead of Syria talks

help the al-Aridi.

The scope of the aims reflects the constrained position of the opposition, which last year was pushing for a political transition in Syria that would exclude Assad.

Al-Aridi said there was no plan to discuss Assad’s position before addressing what he said were ongoing government violations of the ceasefire.

“I don’t think there’s a context for that now. Nobody is ready for this,” al-Aridi told reporters in Astana. “We need a commitment to that cease-fire.”

“If the other side doesn’t care about stopping the bloodshed in Syria, and cares most about staying in power at the expense of Syrian blood … in that case, nothing will work,” he said. Reflecting the enormous distrust at play, he described the Iranians as “spoilers” and “occupiers” and claimed they are not serious about the entire process.

Iran and Russia have provided key financial and military support to Assad’s government, while Turkey has backed the opposition. political process,” said