Iran criticizes US for using minority groups in Syria

By Ahmet Dursun

ANKARA (AA) - The U.S. is using some minority groups as a tool in a bid to achieve its goals in Syria, Iran’s Mehr news agency reported quoting Iranian foreign minister.

According to the news agency, Javad Zarif’s comments came upon his arrival in Moscow to attend Valdai Discussion Club as well as to meet his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov.

Referring to PYD/PKK terrorist group, Zarif said the use of such groups by the U.S. would result in the rise of tension in the region.

Iranian foreign minister also described the U.S. presence in Syria as “very dangerous”.

The terrorist PKK group and its Syrian offshoot PYD had captured large parts of northern Syria, after receiving U.S. military aid.

The U.S. administration has called the PYD/PKK a “reliable ally” in its fight against Daesh, despite strong protests by Turkey.

On Jan. 20, Turkey launched Operation Olive Branch to clear PYD/PKK and Daesh terrorists from Afrin.

According to the Turkish General Staff, the operation aims to establish security and stability along Turkey’s borders and the region as well as protect Syrians from oppression and cruelty of terrorists.