Reports from major news outlets such as BBC, Al Jazeera, or The New York Times

Iran Evacuates Senior Commanders from Syria as Rebels Seize Homs

Dec 7, 2024, 01:08 AM

Iran has begun evacuating its military commanders and personnel from Syria, including senior Quds Force commanders and parts of the Fatemiyoun Brigade, signaling its inability to help keep President Bashar al-Assad in power amid a resurgent rebel offensive. The evacuation began on Friday, with orders issued from the Iranian embassy in Damascus and IRGC bases, according to reports from The New York Times citing regional officials and three Iranian officials. The move includes the withdrawal of military leaders, diplomatic staff, and civilians, with some being relocated to Iraq and Lebanon via air, land routes, and the Syrian port of Latakia. This development reflects increasing instability for Assad's regime as rebel forces advance, having taken over cities like Homs and Deir al-Zour.