On September 22, The Commander of IRGC's Quds Force (IRGC-QF), Esmail Qaani, visited Syria and met with senior officials in Damascus, overseeing a joint military drill. The conversations centered on addressing the multifaceted security challenges facing Syria. During the Iran-Syria joint military exercise, Qaani explored various operational zones, including a visit to the armored and artillery units of the Syrian army in Homs province.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) highlighted Qaani's participation in military exercises conducted by the IRGC and Hezbollah in the Syrian Desert near the Syrian-Iraqi border. IRGC-affiliated Tasnim released images showing soldiers in nondescript uniforms, hinting at the potential presence of members from Iranian-backed proxy Shiite militias.
Emphasizing the profound strategic relationship between Syria and Iran, Qaani reaffirmed Iran's unwavering support for Syria's populace and leadership in facing various challenges. He identified the U.S. as the primary source of turmoil, labeling it the epicenter of corruption, chaos, terrorism, and conflict within Syria and beyond.
Iranian media outlets reported that Qaani also visited several regional countries, demonstrating his commitment to bolstering the Resistance Front and "defending nations standing against global oppression and arrogance."
Qaani visits emphasize Iran's substantial focus on Syria in a bilateral context and regarding the coordinated operations of Shiite militias in alliance with Hezbollah and Iran’s intent to encircle Israel and expedite the departure of U.S. forces from Syria.
Despite facing domestic criticism for its substantial investment in Syria amidst its economic turmoil, Iran's commitment to its operations remains unfaltering, even at the expense of both lives and resources. Despite internal economic and infrastructural challenges, the continued emphasis on foreign engagements underlines Iran's international strategic priorities.
Comments