The secretary of Iran’s National Security Council warned Israel on Tuesday of a “firm and appropriate” response aimed at deterring Israeli attacks in Syria, and “teaching a lesson” to "criminal Israeli rulers”.

Ali Shamkhani made his remarks during a meeting with Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Muallem who is in Tehran meeting senior officials, including Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif.

Muallem in turn thanked Iran for its support and reiterated his government’s position that Iranian “military advisers” are in Syria with the invitation of the host government to strengthen its “military forces” in the fight against “terrorism”. He added that the Syrian government feels responsible for the “safety of Iranian forces” present on its soil.

Shamkhani also thanked Syria for offering the opportunity “civil society” members to take part in the overhaul of the country’s constitution. He accused the West of sabotage greed in this process aimed at continuing the Syrian conflict.