Iran has nearly withdrawn all its military forces from Syria after rebels’ rapid victory over the Assad regime, impacting Tehran’s regional influence. The Iranian military’s hasty departure signals a significant strategic setback for Tehran, compounded by the new Sunni leadership’s opposition and potential U.S. actions against Iran.
Iran has significantly reduced its military presence in Syria following the recent success of rebel forces against the Assad regime, as per reports from Western and Arab sources. The once substantial Iranian contingent, which supported President Bashar al-Assad for many years, has virtually disappeared, with members fleeing or being ordered to withdraw. Visual evidence of abandoned military assets near the Lebanese border indicates a rushed exit as the Syrian rebels rapidly gained ground, achieving control in a mere 11 days. Barbara Leaf, a prominent official from the U.S. State Department, remarked, “Pretty much, yes,” when queried about the Iranian withdrawal, calling it an extraordinary development.
Syria had been a pivotal ally for Iran in the Middle East, serving as a crucial part of its so-called “Axis of Resistance.” This alliance enabled Iran to deploy resources against U.S. and Israeli positions in the region. Furthermore, Iran established Hezbollah bases in Syria, many of which have been dismantled either by Israeli actions or by the advancing rebel forces. The fall of Assad has left Iran without its critical ally, with the new Sunni leadership in Syria expressing a long-standing enmity toward both Iran and the Assad regime.
The leading rebel group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, is reportedly working to distance itself from its extremist origins to foster a better relationship with the international community. Rebel leader Ahmed al-Sharaa claimed the swift defeat of the Assad regime has effectively “set the Iranian project in the region back by 40 years.” Analysts note that the rebels’ intrinsic aversion toward Iran may prevent the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps from re-establishing influence in Syria, jeopardizing Iran’s long-term strategic endeavors in the region.
Recognizing the risks posed by the new governance in Syria, hard-line factions within Tehran are advocating for a counter-revolution. Media outlets associated with the IRGC have criticized the emerging Syrian government as “takfiri terrorists,” echoing terminologies previously used concerning ISIS, and indicating concerns over potential unrest in Damascus.
This setback for Iran coincides with President-elect Donald Trump’s anticipated inauguration, during which he may consider aggressive measures against Iran, including potential airstrikes aimed at curtailing its nuclear ambitions.
The current geopolitical landscape in Syria has dramatically shifted following the rebels’ recent military successes. Iran, which has historically relied on Syria as a strategic ally, has seen its influence wane significantly with the fall of the Assad regime. The Iranian military presence was part of a broader strategy to extend Tehran’s reach across the region, foster ties with militant groups like Hezbollah, and counter U.S. and Israeli interests. The current circumstances challenge Iran’s longstanding objectives in the Middle East amidst growing local resistance to its involvement.
In summary, the Iranian military has largely withdrawn from Syria following significant victories by rebel forces against the Assad regime. This shift represents a considerable reduction in Iranian influence in the region, with the new Syrian leadership opposing Tehran’s past alliances. Furthermore, ongoing tensions between Iran and the emerging rebel governance raise the stakes for future engagements in the area, as well as potential U.S. involvement under the incoming Trump administration.
Original Source: nypost.com
