Iran has begun evacuating military officials and personnel from Syria due to worsening conditions amid a resurgent rebel offensive. Key figures, including Quds Forces commanders and embassy staff, are relocating to Iraq and Lebanon, highlighting challenges to Tehran’s support for President Assad.
In a significant development amid a resurgence of rebel activities in Syria, Iran has commenced evacuating its military personnel and key officials from the region. The evacuation began on Friday, as reported by various Iranian and regional officials, indicating challenges faced by Iran in sustaining its support for President Bashar al-Assad’s government. Notably, members of Iran’s Quds Forces, part of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, were among those evacuated, alongside diplomatic staff and their families.
The evacuations have been orchestrated from the Iranian Embassy in Damascus and various Iranian military bases, with personnel being relocated to countries such as Iraq and Lebanon. Some have reportedly returned to Iran via air transport, while others are utilizing land routes to exit Syria. According to Mehdi Rahmati, an Iranian analyst, the need for evacuation stems from the reluctance of the Syrian army to engage in combat, diminishing the effectiveness of Iranian advisory and support roles.
The latest developments in Syria reflect the ongoing conflict between the Assad regime and various rebel factions, which have gained momentum recently. Iran has played a pivotal role in supporting Assad’s government, yet the rising pressure from rebel forces prompted significant shifts in Iran’s military strategy. The evacuation indicates a potential reassessment of Iran’s military commitments in the region amidst growing instability. Iran’s influence in Syria through the Quds Forces has been critical for Assad, making this evacuation a crucial turning point in the conflict.
Iran’s recent decision to evacuate military officials from Syria marks a notable shift in its approach to the ongoing conflict. The withdrawals spotlight the challenges faced by Iran in maintaining influence over the Assad regime during a time of intensified rebel offensives. As these developments unfold, the implications for Iran’s regional strategy and its support for the Syrian government remain a topic of significant concern and analysis.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
