Iran is facing substantial setbacks in its support for the Syrian regime amid increasing pressure from opposition groups like Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and foreign actors. The Iranian military has expressed concerns over the destabilizing impact of American and Israeli activities in Syria and is actively seeking support from Russia and regional allies. Weaknesses among Iran’s proxies, particularly Hezbollah, further exacerbate the situation, prompting discussions about potential troop deployments to assist the Assad regime.
Iran is currently facing significant challenges in its efforts to support the Syrian regime led by President Bashar al-Assad, especially following the recent territorial gains made by opposition groups such as Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). The Iranian regime has acknowledged these setbacks as part of a larger strategy by the United States and Israel aimed at destabilizing the Axis of Resistance, which includes Hezbollah, Hamas, and Iraqi militias. As hostilities increase in Syria, Iran is attempting to galvanize its regional proxies and seek support from Russia to bolster the Assad regime.
In recent communications, Major General Mohammad Bagheri, the Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, articulated concerns regarding foreign-backed militants making advances in northwestern Syria. He emphasized the coordinated nature of recent attacks as indicative of a broader scheme orchestrated by the U.S. and Israel to undermine the Syrian government and its allies. Iran’s military apparatus is engaging in discussions with regional partners, including Russia and various militia leaders, in an effort to stabilize the situation.
Additionally, Iran’s proxies in the region are under significant strain, with Hezbollah, for instance, having lost thousands of fighters due to ongoing conflicts. This weakening of Iran’s support base has prompted Iranian officials to explore potential direct military enforcement options while simultaneously seeking to avert sending Iranian troops into combat. Indeed, the presence of senior IRGC figures in Damascus underscores Tehran’s urgent need to shore up support for the Assad regime amid growing pressures from opposition forces.
Although Iran may consider deploying forces like the Kataib Hezbollah militia to support Assad’s efforts, it remains cautious about escalating its involvement militarily. The Iranian regime’s recent deliberations suggest an understanding of the precarious situation in which it finds itself and the imperative for strategic alliances, particularly with Turkey, to counter the advancing htS forces in key regions such as Aleppo and Hama. Without immediate and effective intervention, the potential for further losses heightens dramatically.
Iran’s involvement in the Syrian conflict dates back to 2011 when it began supporting the Assad regime against various insurgent groups. Over the years, Iran has strategically aligned itself with a coalition of non-state actors referred to as the Axis of Resistance, which includes militant groups such as Hezbollah and various Iraqi militias. This alliance has been pivotal in enabling the Assad government to regain control over significant portions of Syria. However, recent developments, including the resurgence of HTS and other opposition forces, have put immense pressure on Iran’s hold in the region, challenging its capacity to maintain influence over Damascus and undermining its broader geopolitical objectives in the Middle East.
The current state of affairs in Syria represents a critical juncture for Iran as its efforts to stabilize the Assad regime are stymied by the resurgence of opposition forces and the weakened status of its proxies. The acknowledgment by Iranian officials of these setbacks underscores the regime’s desperation to maintain its foothold and mitigate pressures from both regional adversaries and internal challenges. Strategic partnerships and geopolitical maneuvering will be essential for Iran moving forward as it seeks to navigate this complex landscape.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
