US slams idea that Iran can help resolve Syria conflict

The Jerusalem Post – The White House criticized Tuesday the concept that Tehran could be constructive in resolving the conflict in Syria, after UN mediator Kofi Annan held meetings with Iranian officials.

“I don’t think anybody with a straight face could argue that Iran has had a positive impact on developments in Syria,” White House spokesman Jay Carney said Tuesday.

The comment came after weeks of discussion over Iran’s possible role in helping a UN-brokered attempt at a ceasefire in the strife-riven country in which the US has made it clear that it opposes Iranian participation.

Though Annan had overlooked US objections in reaching out to Iran, Carney still indicating US backing for his efforts.

“Broadly, on the Annan plan, we believe that it is essential that the international community come together behind the plan, that the plan be implemented,” Carney said.

He added, “We remain highly skeptical about Assad’s willingness to meet his commitments, which is another reason why Syria's future cannot plausibly have Bashar Assad in the government. He’s long since lost his credibility.”

Carney also urged a change of course in countries like Iran that have supported the Syrian leader.

“We also call on other nations to recognize the obvious, which is that allying with Bashar Assad is allying with a tyrant and putting your nation on the wrong side of the Syrian people,” he said.