Protests in Syria’s coastal cities have escalated amid allegations that the Iranian regime and Hezbollah are provoking unrest via remnants of the Assad regime. Colonel Riyad al-Asaad claims intelligence supports that Hezbollah is instigating these disturbances. The protests commenced after a video attack on an Alawite shrine, transitioning from peaceful demonstrations to violent confrontations, prompting heightened security measures and military action against regime loyalists.
Last week, protests erupted across Syria’s coastal cities, raising serious accusations against the Iranian regime and Hezbollah for allegedly inciting unrest through remnants of the former Assad administration. Colonel Riyad al-Asaad, founder of the Free Syrian Army, stated during an interview with Al-Hadath TV that their intelligence suggests Hezbollah is sending agents into Syria to create chaos. The situation has escalated, characterized by armed clashes and division along sectarian lines, heightening concerns over Iranian influence in Syria’s post-Assad transition.\n\nThe unrest reportedly ignited following the circulation of a video depicting an attack on an Alawite religious shrine in Aleppo, although analysts contend that the protests form part of a broader strategy involving Iranian militias and Hezbollah. Recent reports suggest Hezbollah has mobilized its operatives from Lebanon to deepen its influence in strategic Syrian territories. In particular, Talkalakh has witnessed intense confrontations between Hezbollah-affiliated forces and local opposition groups. The death of a significant pro-regime militia leader, Shuja al-Ali, linked to Hezbollah has altered the dynamics of these clashes, as Colonel al-Asaad points out, “The elimination of Shuja al-Ali dealt a significant blow to Hezbollah. His removal will restore calm to Homs and surrounding areas.”\n\nWhile the protests began peacefully, they turned violent after reports of live fire from regime-aligned forces. Sources indicate that the remnants of Assad’s regime, encouraged by Iranian backing, have been mounting surprise attacks against Syrian military units supporting the new government. This escalating violence has prompted increased security measures in regions like Talkalakh and Tartus, where Hezbollah operatives are allegedly under siege. Notably, military sources report progress in stabilizing these areas through the arrest of high-ranking regime loyalists and the dismantling of key figures like Shuja al-Ali. Furthermore, groups once loyal to Assad have begun to align with the new administration in Homs.\n\nThe timing of the protests coincides with statements from Iranian officials, which raises questions regarding Tehran’s involvement in the chaos. Iran has historically maintained its regional influence by leveraging militias and proxy forces in Syria. Analysts suggest these events may represent Iran’s desperate effort to manipulate the shifting political landscape in post-Assad Syria. Meanwhile, Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has voiced expectations of a “strong and honorable group” rising in Syria, claiming that “brave Syrian youth, with nothing left to lose,” will combat the forces causing insecurity in their nation. Mohsen Rezaee, former commander of the IRGC, echoed this sentiment, asserting on social media that “the resilient Syrian youth and people will revive resistance in a new form within a year.” The Arab League has condemned Iranian officials’ remarks concerning Syria, urging Tehran to cease actions that incite further discord among the Syrian populace.\n\nThe instability in Syria underscores the ongoing challenges posed by the clerical regime in Tehran. As long as this regime persists, achieving lasting peace in the Middle East remains a significant challenge. Their attempts to showcase that regime change would lead to chaos and destabilization highlight the broader implications of Iranian involvement in Syrian affairs.
The article outlines the recent protests erupting in Syrian coastal cities, revealing accusations against the Iranian regime and Hezbollah for allegedly instigating unrest. It discusses the backdrop of Syrian politics following the collapse of the Assad regime, focusing on the implications of Iranian influence and the involvement of Iranian proxies in the current unrest. The political landscape in Syria is complex, marked by factional divisions, sectarian strife, and external interventions, particularly from Iran, which has been accused of manipulating conflicts to maintain its foothold in the region.
In conclusion, the protests in Syria reflect a more profound struggle involving Iranian influence and the fragile political landscape following the Assad regime. The allegations against Hezbollah and the Iranian regime for instigating unrest highlight ongoing sectarian tensions, as regime remnants attempt to disrupt the fledgling government. The response from military and local forces, coupled with the statements from prominent figures, illustrates the precarious situation on the ground. The reactions of regional bodies, such as the Arab League, further emphasize the urgent need for stability in Syria, which remains essential for peace in the broader Middle East.
Original Source: www.ncr-iran.org
