Iranian General Behrouz Esbati accused Russia of deception and serious mistakes in Syria, calling the overthrow of Bashar Assad's regime a "serious defeat" for Iran in an audio recording quoted by The New York Times.
"I don't think that the loss of Syria is something to be proud of. We suffered a defeat, which is very serious," Esbati said.
The general noted that Iran's relations with Assad had worsened in recent months, as Assad refused to open a front against Israel after the start of military operations in the Gaza Strip.
Esbati also accused Russia of misleading Iran by claiming that its air force was striking opposition forces, saying Russian planes bombed deserts instead of real targets.
In addition, the general stated that during Israeli attacks on Iran-related facilities in Syria, Russia disabled the radars, effectively helping Israel.
Esbati emphasized that Iran will continue its activities in Syria by forming "resistance cells."
Russian authorities have not yet commented on the allegations.
