In a significant development in the ongoing Syrian conflict, sources report that Iranian-backed militias crossed into Syria from Iraq overnight, heading to reinforce Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s army as it battles a major insurgent offensive that has captured the key city of Aleppo.
The entry of Iranian forces comes as rebel factions, spearheaded by the Islamist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham alliance, seized control of Aleppo after days of intense fighting. The rebel advance has dealt a severe blow to Assad’s forces in the north.
“These are fresh reinforcements being sent to aid our comrades on the frontlines in the north,” a senior Syrian army source told reporters, confirming the arrival of the Iranian militias. The move underscores Iran’s deep support for the embattled Assad regime.
Kurds Seek Evacuation as Rebels Advance
As insurgents consolidate their grip on Aleppo, the US-backed Kurdish-led forces in the region are scrambling to evacuate Kurdish civilians to safe areas. According to the Kurdish commander, rebels have seized a town housing tens of thousands of Kurds, sparking fears for their safety.
“We are working to transfer Kurdish residents from parts of Aleppo to secure locations under our control,” the Kurdish commander stated. “The rebel advance threatens the lives of innocent civilians.”
– Kurdish commander, name withheld
Iran Vows Steadfast Support for Assad
Iran, Assad’s staunch ally, reaffirmed its resolute backing for the Syrian president amid the rebel gains. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi traveled to Damascus, conveying Tehran’s commitment to defending Syria’s “stability and territorial integrity.”
“Iran stands firmly with President Assad and the Syrian state in confronting all terrorists and their sponsors,” Araghchi declared in the Syrian capital.
– Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi
Assad himself vowed to “defend [Syria’s] stability and territorial integrity in the face of all terrorists and their backers,” a thinly veiled reference to the insurgent forces and their international supporters.
Turkey Urges De-escalation, Israel Watches Warily
On the diplomatic front, Turkey discussed the unfolding Syrian situation with the United States. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan told US Secretary of State Antony Blinken that Ankara backs initiatives to “reduce tension” in war-ravaged Syria.
Israel, meanwhile, is closely monitoring the Syrian developments with unease. Sources indicate Israeli concerns that Iran could exploit the rebel advance to deploy troops near Israel’s borders and funnel arms to Hezbollah militants in neighboring Lebanon.
“Israel is watching the events in Syria with great concern,” a senior Israeli official stated on condition of anonymity. “We will not tolerate Iranian military entrenchment on our doorstep.”
– Senior Israeli official
Fears of Prolonged Instability
The rapid rebel gains in Syria, coupled with the influx of Iranian forces to prop up Assad, are fueling fears of an escalating and increasingly internationalized conflict. Observers warn of a potential long-term Iranian military presence that could reshape the regional security landscape.
- Syrian army struggles to contain rebel offensive in the north
- Iranian militias cross from Iraq to bolster Assad’s forces
- Kurds evacuate civilians as rebels seize town in Aleppo
- Iran pledges unwavering support for Syria’s “territorial integrity”
- Israel frets over possible Iranian troop deployment near its borders
As the Syrian war takes a new turn, regional powers are maneuvering to protect their interests and allies. The unfolding battle for Aleppo could prove pivotal, with far-reaching consequences for Syria’s future and the broader Middle East.
