Iran has begun withdrawing troops from Syria amid rapid advances by rebel forces that threaten to topple the Assad regime. Syrian insurgents captured key cities including Hama, Aleppo, and Deir ez-Zor, putting pressure on the Iranian government.
According to reports, Iranian officials and regional commanders stated that Iran is evacuating its military personnel and diplomatic staff due to the lack of cooperation from the Syrian army. The evacuation was initiated after realizing that continued military involvement would be ineffective, with Iranian analyst Mehdi Rahmati saying “we cannot fight as an advisory and support force if Syria’s army itself does not want to fight.”
Iran has been a key ally to the Assad government throughout the 13-year conflict. However, with the rebel offensive gaining momentum, Iran is reevaluating its role in the conflict. The Iranian withdrawal puts Assad’s regime on the brink of defeat, and Russia may be called upon for assistance.
Experts have expressed doubts about Moscow’s ability to provide significant support to Syria amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Instead, some believe that Iran’s network of armed militias in Syria and the region may offer the best option for the Assad regime.
Source: https://www.newsweek.com/iran-evacuating-military-syria-rebels-advance-report-1997084