Iran declared its plan to keep military advisers in Syria after Aleppo fell to militants, emphasizing its role was based on the Syrian government’s invitation. Official statements indicate continued support for President Assad, amid ongoing civil conflict and recent developments raising concerns about military strategy.
On Monday, Tehran affirmed its intention to maintain military advisers in Syria following the recent takeover of Aleppo by militant groups. The Iranian government has consistently supported President Bashar Assad since the onset of Syria’s civil war in 2011, emphasizing that its military presence is based on a formal invitation from the Syrian administration. Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaeil stated, “We entered Syria many years ago at the official invitation of the Syrian government, when the Syrian people faced the threat of terrorism,” and confirmed that military advisers would continue to operate in alignment with the Syrian government’s wishes. He refrained from disclosing any potential increase in Iranian military personnel in Syria amid the ongoing conflict. Baqaeil’s comments followed a meeting between Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and President Assad intended to demonstrate solidarity following the loss of Aleppo to an Islamist-led coalition, as reported by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.
The continued presence of Iranian military advisers in Syria can be traced back to the onset of the civil war in 2011, when Iran began supporting President Bashar Assad’s regime against various insurgent factions. This strategic alliance has empowered Assad’s government to withstand prolonged conflict and external pressures. By framing their military involvement as advisory support, Iran seeks to legitimize its role in the region while mitigating backlash against foreign intervention.
Iran firmly intends to retain its military advisers in Syria, reflecting its longstanding commitment to support President Assad amidst escalating militant threats. The Iranian government underscores that its military presence is at the behest of the Syrian government. The situation continues to evolve with regional dynamics, particularly following the recent offensives in Aleppo, though specific plans regarding troop levels remain unaddressed by Iranian officials.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
