Strategic Council Online: Russia seeks to thwart US efforts to build coalitions in the region. Moscow sees the US plan as very dangerous that could both increase military presence in the region and enhance the likelihood of conflicts. So the Kremlin is trying to prevent the US-led coalition from escalating tensions in the region.
Mahmoud Shouri – Russia Affairs Expert
Strategic Council Online: The United States has announced its withdrawal from Syrian soil at a time that it gives the green light to Turkey to violate the national sovereignty of Syria and occupy 450 square kilometers at a depth of 30 kilometers.
Azam Gol Mohammadi – International Law Researcher
Strategic Council Online: Former Middle East Department Director General of the IRI Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said it may be better for Iran and Saudi Arabia to talk directly and without mediation. “If Iran and Saudi could reach agreement on a framework both the US influence will decline in the region and the big powers that are interested in getting stronger and seek tension and escalation of regional competitions will become weaker in playing their game,” he said.
Strategic Council Online: The escalation of Washington’s strict policies against Iran and Turkey over the past year has made the two neighboring countries more resolute in further strengthening their relations.
Siamak Kakaie – Turkey Affairs Expert
Strategic Council Online: Norway’s ambassador to Iran said, unfortunately, unilateral US sanctions after the Iran Nuclear Agreement (known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action) made it difficult for Norway and Iran to cooperate in the field of energy.