Iran Voices Concern Over Rising Syrian Truce Violations

Iran has voiced concern at rising cease-fire violations in Syria, saying they could negatively impact peace talks this week aimed at ending the five-year-old conflict.

Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian made the comments in Tehran on April 12 after talks with United Nations envoy Staffan de Mistura.

The UN envoy arrived in Tehran after holding meetings with Syria's foreign minister in Damascus on April 11.

Nevertheless, he said Tehran was "happy to see that we are approaching a political solution to this crisis", ahead of talks due to resume in Geneva on April 13.

The United States on April 11 also expressed concern at the recent increase in violence, which it blamed on Syrian government forces that are backed by Iran.

Based on reporting by Reuters and AFP