Iran Walking Fine Line on Syria

August 29, 2013

Iran is wording responses to Syria's alleged use of chemical weapons very carefully, although its rhetoric towards the international community remains tough. And, as the West mulls military action against Iran's ally, the new government in Tehran is caught between old allegiances and pressures to forge better ties with the West.

The images of suffering after the alleged chemical weapon attack - called appalling and abhorrent by many in the West - at first drew a muted reaction from new Iranian President Hassan Rohani who, without blaming the Syrian government, issued a general condemnation of chemical weapons use.

Former Radio Farda military correspondent Hussein Aryan says Rouhani had no choice.

"Not doing that, it would devaluate the credibility of a president who has taken over and seems or says that he is going to have a moderate approach in terms of international relations,” he said.

The escalating crisis in Syria may well test Iran's intent to improve ties with the West and the United States.

With the election of President Rohani, came a Western-friendly foreign minister, and Tehran has softened some of its rhetoric over its controversial nuclear program as it looks to get sanctions that have battered its economy lifted.

Still, as Western calls for military action against the Syrian government increase, Iran's defense of Syria has also strengthened.