Iran is set to increase its military support for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s regime, sending missiles, drones, and additional military advisors to bolster Assad’s forces against advancing rebel groups. This decision comes as anti-Assad rebels achieve significant territorial gains, marking the fastest battlefield advancements in the ongoing Syrian civil war.
According to a senior Iranian official, Tehran has taken all necessary steps to send military equipment, including missiles and drones, to Syria. The official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that Iran would also increase the number of military advisors deployed to Syria to help strengthen Assad’s forces. “Tehran has been providing critical intelligence and satellite support to Syria, reinforcing its long-standing alliance with Assad,” the official stated.
Syria holds significant strategic value for Iran as a key ally in the Middle East. Assad’s regime is a vital part of Iran’s “Axis of Resistance,” aimed at countering the influence of the U.S. and Israel in the region. Over the years, Iran, along with Russia, has been a crucial supporter of Assad, providing military and economic assistance. However, recent setbacks, including heavy losses suffered by Hezbollah, Iran’s main regional ally, have put additional pressure on Tehran’s strategy in Syria.
Over the past week, anti-Assad rebels have made their most significant territorial gains in years, putting the Syrian government under increasing pressure. Tehran, alongside Moscow, plans to intensify airstrikes to support Assad’s forces and prevent the rebels from advancing toward major cities. Despite these developments, Syria has not yet requested ground forces from Iran, with the official noting that the current focus is on increasing airstrike efforts with Russia’s support.
Iran is actively engaging in diplomatic efforts to address Turkey’s role in the conflict. Turkey, a NATO member, has long backed opposition forces against Assad’s regime. Tehran has urged Turkey to avoid aligning with the U.S. and Israel, believing that the latter two powers are working together to weaken Iran’s influence in the region. The foreign ministers of Turkey, Iran, and Russia are set to meet in Doha to discuss these developments and the ongoing rebel advances.
In addition to military support for Syria, Iran is also engaging with Iraq to discuss potential joint defense projects involving resistance groups and even regular military forces. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi is expected to meet with Iraqi and Syrian counterparts in Baghdad to further strengthen the cooperation between these nations.
Iran’s decision to send military support to Syria marks a critical moment in the ongoing conflict. With rebel groups gaining ground and Assad’s forces under pressure, Tehran’s involvement is set to intensify. While the outcome of these efforts remains uncertain, Iran’s strategic support for Assad underscores its commitment to maintaining its influence in the region and countering external threats.
