syria

With the regional focus elsewhere, violence in Syria grinds on. International backers of the various enclaves have a greater say in the direction of events than do their Syrian clients.

Iran is continually expanding its military, economic and political presence in Syria. Bashar al-Assad’s February 25 visit to Iran was an important marker in these efforts. Assad met with Iranian Leader Ali Khamenei and President Hassan Rouhani, who labeled him the “hero of the Arab world.” The presence of Quds Force commander Qassem Soleimani and

Iran to Lease Part of Latakia Port – Reports.
Dr. Yossi Mansharof: The rivalry between Tehran and Moscow is becoming “more visible” in post-war Syria.

The Golan Heights is Israel’s best northern defense line, especially since Iranian forces have moved into Syria. US recognition of Israel’s sovereignty on the Golan along with Israel’s military superiority ensure a secure border.

The fight to depose Assad is over. The battle over his regime’s boundaries has no end in sight.

Tehran eyes vital Syrian port of Latakia as gateway to Med.
Dr. Yossi Mansharof: Moscow is likely to allow Israel to launch strikes on Iranian targets around Latakia if it uses the port to ship weapons.

No new beginnings in sight for ravaged Syria.

Arab countries are re-normalizing their relations with the Assad regime, seeking to balance the strong Iranian and Turkish influences in Syria and to achieve some degree of influence in a new Syrian political-strategic structure. This further cements a Russian-oriented strategic architecture in the region. In the long term, this could lead to tensions between conservative Arab states and Israel, if Israel targets the Syrian military and government in the campaign against Iran, or if Israel continues to promote diplomatic recognition of its Golan annexation.

Israel has not fully deterred Iranian aggression in Syria.
Prof. Efraim Inbar: Iran still remains determined to open a second front against Israel in Syria.

One way Iran’s efforts are taking place are below the official Syrian state structures – in the arming and sponsoring of Iran-controlled paramilitary formations on Syria soil.