Iran Evacuates Quds Force, IRGC, and Embassy Staff from Syria as Assad's Regime Falters

Dec 7, 2024, 01:03 AM

Iran has begun evacuating its military personnel, including senior Quds Force commanders, from Syria, according to reports from The New York Times. This move signals Iran's assessment that it is unable to help maintain President Bashar al-Assad's grip on power amid a resurgent rebel offensive. The evacuation includes not only military officials but also IRGC personnel, embassy staff, diplomatic staff, and their families, as well as some civilians. The decision to withdraw comes as rebel forces, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, have made significant advances in Aleppo, Hama, and Deir al-Zour, putting increased pressure on Assad's regime. Iran's retreat is seen as an extraordinary development, given Syria's strategic importance to Iran's regional ambitions.