Iran’s Revolutionary Guards are reducing the presence of senior officers in Syria due to a series of Israeli strikes. Israeli attacks since December have killed over half a dozen Revolutionary Guards members, including a top intelligence general. Tehran is avoiding direct conflict escalation but remains committed to Syria.
The move highlights the broader consequences of the conflict triggered by Hamas’ attack on Israel. Iran, a Hamas supporter, backs groups in Lebanon, Yemen, Iraq, and Syria in the “Axis of Resistance” against Israel and the U.S.
Senior Iranian commanders, along with mid-ranking officers, have left Syria, describing it as a downsizing of the presence. The exact number remains undisclosed. The Guards will manage Syrian operations remotely, aided by Hezbollah.
The downsizing aims to avoid direct involvement in the Israel-Gaza conflict. Israel, seeking to roll back Iran’s presence, intensified airstrikes during the Gaza war. The Israeli military, as customary, didn’t confirm responsibility for the strikes.
In one attack on Jan. 20, five Guard members were killed, including an intelligence general. Another strike on Dec. 25 killed a senior Guards adviser. Concerns of an “intelligence breach” led to relocating operational sites and officers’ residences. Guards have been recruiting Shi’ite fighters from Afghanistan and Pakistan. Despite challenges, Iran is unlikely to end its commitment to Syria.
The reduced Iranian role could benefit Russia, which has supported Assad since 2015. Moscow and Tehran’s relationship may face strains if they openly compete in Syria. Russia anticipates signing a new treaty with Iran soon, strengthening its ties. The situation is delicate, with both regional and global implications.
