AP Interview: UK minister says Iran must end support for Assad to take role in aiding Syria

NEW YORK, N.Y. – Britain’s Middle East minister says Iran should only take a role in helping end violence in Syria if it halts support for President Bashar Assad’s regime.

Alistair Burt told The Associated Press in an interview Thursday that Iran could “be part of the answer” if it changes approach.

Iranian leader Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said Wednesday he is developing a 12-nation group on Syria. Egyptian President Mohammed Morsi has also invited Turkey, Iran and Saudi Arabia to join a contact group aimed at ending the conflict.

Burt said many nations in the region were skeptical Tehran can take a role.

“Until the Iranians change their position in relation to Syria and stop their active support of a regime that’s killing its own people, it’s difficult to take them completely seriously,” he said.

News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join the Conversation!

Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community? Create a free account to comment on stories, ask questions, and join meaningful discussions on our new site.

Leave a Reply

The Associated Press

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.