Iran replaces ambassador to Syria

A state-owned Iranian newspaper says the Islamic Republic has named a new ambassador to Syria. The Iran daily said on Sunday that Mohammad Raouf Sheibani has replaced Ahmad Mousavi as Iran’s chief envoy to Damascus. Sheibani is currently deputy foreign minister in charge of Middle East affairs. The report offered no explanation for the move. However, the Kaleme opposition website reported last week that Mousavi planned to run for parliament in March elections. Under the law, officials are required to resign from their post to run for office. Iran is Damascus’ chief ally and a staunch supporter of Syrian President Bashar Assad. Tehran says the uprising in Syria is instigated by the U.S. and Israel.