Iran Establishes Direct Contact with Syria’s New Rulers
Following the sudden ouster of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, a senior Iranian official said Monday that Tehran has opened a direct line of communication with factions within Syria’s new leadership. This move aims to prevent the deterioration of Iran-Syria relations and safeguard Tehran’s strategic interests in the region.
The swift victory by a rebel coalition led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, once affiliated with al-Qaeda, dramatically reshaped the Middle East’s power landscape. Assad’s collapse ended a regime that had long served as a key conduit for Iranian and Russian influence in the Arab world.
Hours after Assad’s removal, Iran publicly called for maintaining ties based on “far-sighted and wise” strategies, urging the formation of an inclusive Syrian government representing all social groups. Still, officials in Tehran are keenly aware that the change in Damascus could threaten their regional standing. Syria has been a critical element in Iran’s network of allies, known as the “Axis of Resistance,” which includes the Lebanese Hezbollah and connects Iran to the Mediterranean and Israel’s border.
RINSE & REPEAT IN SYRIA:
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Hillary Clinton pic.twitter.com/Ak7FNDNocG
“There is no panic,” said one Iranian official, though Tehran is concerned the new leaders may steer Syria away from Iran’s orbit. Losing influence there would cut off Hezbollah’s overland supply line and limit Iran’s ability to challenge Israel. Iranian officials also worry about the return of Donald Trump to the White House in January, fearing Washington could exploit Assad’s downfall to pressure Iran economically and politically.
To safeguard its interests, Iran has initiated dialogue with two groups among Syria’s incoming rulers. These contacts will be reviewed by Iran’s Supreme National Security Council in the coming days. Tehran wants to ensure Syria’s new leadership does not become overtly hostile, especially since Trump’s renewed influence could be used against Iran.
Trump’s previous administration withdrew from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, imposed severe sanctions, and ordered a drone strike that killed Qassem Soleimani, the architect of Iran’s overseas military operations. With that history in mind, Tehran hopes that by proactively engaging Syria’s new authorities, it can reduce the risk of regional isolation and avoid further escalation.
BREAKING 🚨 Donald Trump just now posted on Truth a URGENT message on the collapse of Syria
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For over a decade, Iran invested heavily — financially and militarily — to uphold Assad’s rule. His removal severs a crucial link in Iran’s regional supply chain to Hezbollah and other allies, forcing the Islamic Republic to adapt to a transformed Middle East order.
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