Iran quickly reached-out to Syrias new power-holders after Bashar al-Assad lost control of Damascus this week. A top-level source confirms Tehran opened direct communication lines with rebel groups that now run the country
The sudden take-over by militia groups (led by former al-Qaeda linked Hayat Tahrir al-Sham) changed Mid-East politics overnight — ending decades of Iranian-Syrian partnership. Tehran wants to keep its position in Syria which was key for:
- Arms supply routes
- Access to Mediterranean
- Support for Hezbollah
- Regional influence against Israel
“We expect good relations to continue based on far-sighted approach“ said Iranian officials who dont want Syria moving away from Tehranʼs sphere. Three high-ranking sources say Iran isnt panicking but working fast to find common-ground with new Damascus rulers
The timing is extra-hard for Iran because Donald Trump might return to White House next month. His last term brought major problems for Tehran: nuclear-deal exit in 2018; killing of military commander Qassem Soleimani; harsh sanctions that hit Iranʼs economy
Tehran spent billions supporting Assad since 2011 civil war started: now its diplomatic team races to save what it can from this strategic setback. Iranian leaders already talked to two groups in Syriaʼs new government — showing theyʼre ready to work with former enemies to keep some influence in Damascus