The Syrian newspaper Thawra reports on a security crackdown targeting Hezbollah cells in Sayyidah Zainab, highlighting escalating tensions between Iranian influence and Syrian authorities. The report discusses Hezbollah’s infiltration, areas of conflict along the Syrian-Lebanese border, and Iran’s involvement in supporting the Assad regime. The findings underscore ongoing challenges to regional stability and security.
On March 28, 2025, the Syrian newspaper Thawra reported a security operation targeting Hezbollah cells in the Sayyidah Zainab area, close to Damascus. The Rural Damascus Security Directorate disclosed that these cells were apprehended for allegedly planning destabilizing “criminal operations.” Three individuals were reportedly arrested, highlighting the increasing scrutiny towards Iranian influence in Syria amid ongoing tensions between Syrian authorities and the Iranian regime.
The Syrian Ministry of Defense has alleged that Hezbollah operatives have infiltrated Syria, resulting in the deaths of three Syrian soldiers from the newly formed army. This incident marks a significant point in the persistent investigation of Tehran’s involvement in the Syrian conflict, which has been ongoing since 2011, raising concerns over Iranian military engagements and the use of proxy forces such as Hezbollah.
Thawra indicates that Iran has maintained a strategic presence in Syria through both direct military efforts and proxy groups. Hezbollah’s participation in critical battles, such as the 2013 conflict in Qusayr, along with the IRGC’s support, particularly through the late Qassem Soleimani, has been essential for the Assad regime. This involvement includes military training, intelligence, and suppression of opposition.
Furthermore, the article details the IRGC’s direct intervention in Syria, claiming that it has incurred losses exceeding 2,100 fighters as of March 2017. Thawra accuses Iran of facilitating the Assad regime’s chemical weapons use, specifically referencing the 2013 Ghouta attacks that led to numerous civilian fatalities. Furthermore, Iran, Russia, and Hezbollah have allegedly collaborated extensively in these military operations.
The report emphasizes the Syrian-Lebanese border as a vital corridor for Hezbollah’s illicit operations, including arms and drug smuggling, reportedly occurring with Iranian assistance. This 375-kilometer border region has experienced a rise in conflict, showcasing Hezbollah’s expansive cross-border engagement.
In conclusion, the Thawra report underscores the detrimental impact of Iranian interference in Syria, whether through direct military actions or proxy forces like Hezbollah. The recent crackdown on Hezbollah cells serves as a clear indication of the increasing tensions between Tehran and Damascus regarding Iranian influence in the area. The ongoing mobilization of IRGC units and affiliated brigades since the 2011 uprising underscores the complicated dynamics of regional security. Ironically, the new Syrian leadership has assumed responsibility for protecting the Sayyidah Zainab holy site, a task originally used by Iran to justify its military presence.
In summary, the Thawra report highlights significant developments regarding Iranian interference in Syria through Hezbollah and the IRGC. The ongoing conflicts and operations near Damascus reveal escalating tensions between the Syrian authorities and Iranian proxies. The situation raises critical concerns about regional stability, with implications that stretch beyond the immediate vicinity of the conflict zones. The complexities of Iran’s role in Syria necessitate continued scrutiny and analysis.
Original Source: www.ncr-iran.org
