Protests have erupted in Syria’s coastal cities, with accusations against the Iranian regime and Hezbollah for inciting unrest through remnants of the Assad regime. Colonel Riyad al-Asaad claims they are sending agents to create discord. The demonstrations, escalating from initial peaceful protests, have led to violent clashes, particularly in Talkalakh, as Iranian influence complicates the transitioning political landscape.
Recent protests in Syria’s coastal cities have escalated, with accusations directed towards the Iranian regime and Hezbollah for inciting civil unrest. Colonel Riyad al-Asaad, founder of the Free Syrian Army, has claimed that Iran and Hezbollah are using remnants of the Assad regime to create discord and destabilize the region. His allegations suggest that Hezbollah is actively sending agents to Syria to foment disturbances. The protests were reportedly triggered by a controversial video regarding an Alawite shrine attack, yet many analysts believe that this unrest is part of a broader strategy orchestrated by Iranian proxies and Hezbollah operatives.
The situation has intensified, particularly in areas near the Lebanese border where clashes have occurred between Hezbollah-affiliated forces and local opposition groups. The killing of Shuja al-Ali, a militia leader connected to Hezbollah, has significantly impacted these confrontations; Colonel al-Asaad stated, “The elimination of Shuja al-Ali dealt a significant blow to Hezbollah.” Local reports indicate that the protests, which began as peaceful demonstrations, escalated into violent confrontations due to live fire from regime loyalists.
Emerging reports assert that remnants of the Assad regime, supported by Iranian elements, initiated assaults on Syrian military units aligned with the new government. Consequently, security measures have been heightened in regions such as Talkalakh and Tartus, where Hezbollah agents are under scrutiny. Military sources have observed a containment of unrest following the arrest of high-ranking regime supporters and the neutralization of significant figures such as Shuja al-Ali.
The protests arose concurrently with troubling statements from Iranian officials, sparking concerns regarding Tehran’s involvement in the unrest. Historically, Iran has depended on militiamen and proxy forces to further its influence in Syria. Analysts speculate that recent events might represent Iran’s final strategic attempt to redirect the shifting political and military landscape in post-Assad Syria.
Additionally, in a recent speech, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei prognosticated the emergence of a robust and honorable group in Syria, asserting that the nation’s youth would rally to counteract forces responsible for their insecurity. Echoing these sentiments, Mohsen Rezaee, a former commander of the IRGC, contended on social media that “the resilient Syrian youth and people will revive resistance in a new form within a year.” In conjunction, the Arab League condemned Iranian actions, accusing Tehran of fostering disunity among the Syrian populace and cautioning against instigating further conflict.
The protests in Syria’s coastal regions arise amid the ongoing struggle for power in the aftermath of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. With foreign powers and local factions vying for influence, the Iranian regime and Hezbollah have reportedly been implicated in exacerbating sectarian tensions to inhibit the integration of anti-Assad forces into the new political framework. The situation is complicated by a history of Iranian military and ideological support for the Assad regime throughout the Syrian Civil War, which has contributed to a persistent climate of instability in the region. In this context, the protests can be interpreted as part of a larger narrative of resistance towards both the Assad regime’s remnants and Iranian influence. Colonel al-Asaad’s allegations shed light on the ongoing struggle within Syrian society to forge a stable political future amidst external meddling and internal dissent.
The unrest in Syria’s coastal cities underscores the complex interplay of regional power dynamics, particularly the role of the Iranian regime and Hezbollah in inciting conflict. The statements from Colonel al-Asaad and the violent clashes between opposing factions highlight the challenges facing Syria’s transition to stability. Furthermore, the response of regional organizations such as the Arab League illustrates the significant concern regarding external influences on Syria’s fragile landscape. Overall, the situation remains delicate as internal and external forces continue to vie for control over Syria’s future.
Original Source: www.ncr-iran.org
