Iranian-backed Iraqi militias have crossed into Syria to assist the Syrian government amid an insurgent takeover of Aleppo. Approximately 200 fighters were deployed to support military efforts against Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. Concurrent airstrikes have resulted in civilian casualties, raising concerns over escalating regional tensions.
Iranian-backed Iraqi militias have entered Syria to support the government’s efforts against a recent insurgent offensive that has overtaken Aleppo, Syria’s second-largest city. The Iraqi forces, numbering approximately 200, utilized the Bou Kamal border crossing to assist the Syrian army, which is currently struggling to reclaim lost territories amidst escalating conflict. These moves come as the jihadi group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) continues its aggressive campaign, threatening to advance further into key areas, including Damascus.
Amidst the turmoil, Syrian and Russian airstrikes have been launched against rebel positions, resulting in civilian casualties, with recent reports indicating at least 10 deaths in Idlib. An official from the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that the Iraqi militias aim to reinforce the beleaguered Syrian military. Concurrently, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reaffirmed his nation’s commitment to supporting President Bashar al-Assad, emphasizing the importance of maintaining stability in the region during this escalated conflict.
While insurgents have indicated intentions to move on Damascus, the situation in the capital remains relatively calm. However, the atmosphere in Aleppo reflects growing desperation, as many residents flee the city, facing fuel shortages and a tense environment. The ongoing conflict risks increasing regional instability, with potential ramifications for both Russia and Turkey, given their conflicting interests in Syria and involvement in the broader Middle Eastern strife.
The civil war in Syria, which began in 2011, has seen various factions, including Iranian-backed militias, actively intervene to support President Bashar al-Assad’s regime. The insurgent group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a key player in the current offensive, has demonstrated significant capabilities, threatening the stability of regions previously under government control. The involvement of Russian and Iranian forces illustrates the intertwining of geopolitical interests in Syria, making it a focal point of regional conflict and power dynamics.
In summary, the recent deployment of Iranian-backed Iraqi militias into Syria underscores the complexities of the ongoing conflict, highlighting the intertwined fates of regional players including Iran and Russia. As insurgent forces continue to press their advance, the situation in Aleppo remains dire, and the potential for further instability looms over the entire region. The dynamics of foreign intervention and local conflicts might prompt broader ramifications, emphasizing the necessity for continuous monitoring and diplomatic engagement.
Original Source: www.newsweek.com
