Richard Parks Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi visited Damascus on Sunday, expressing Tehran’s unwavering backing for Syrian President Bashar Assad. The visit coincided with fierce battles in Aleppo and Idlib, where Syrian forces, supported by Russian airstrikes, fought to regain territory lost to insurgent groups in a surprise offensive.
Syrian Forces Struggle Against Rebel Advances
A coalition of insurgents, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), launched a sudden assault last week, seizing key locations in Aleppo, including military academies and strategic sites. The offensive forced government troops to temporarily retreat before regrouping for counterattacks.
Syrian state media reported significant insurgent casualties, but independent verification remains absent. The White Helmets, an opposition-affiliated group, claimed joint Syrian-Russian airstrikes caused civilian deaths and injuries, underscoring the heavy toll of the escalating violence.
Regional Stakes Heighten Amid Conflict
Araghchi’s visit aimed to solidify Iran’s role as a critical ally to Assad. Both Iran and Russia have historically supported Syria’s government, but ongoing regional crises threaten to complicate their involvement. Meanwhile, Türkiye, which backs opposing forces, remains a key player in the conflict.
With Middle Eastern tensions already high due to the Israel-Hamas war and unrest in Lebanon, the Syrian conflict risks pulling regional powers into deeper disputes. Araghchi is set to meet Türkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan to discuss the escalating situation, as analysts warn of far-reaching consequences if the conflict widens.