Official announcements from the Iraqi government or verified news outlets

Thousands of Iranian-Backed Fighters Enter Syria from Iraq to Bolster Syrian Army Against Rebels

Dec 2, 2024, 07:27 AM

Iranian-backed militias have entered Syria from Iraq to support the Syrian army in its fight against insurgents. According to Syrian military sources, thousands of fighters from groups including the Popular Mobilization Forces (Hashd al Shaabi), Kataib Hezbollah, and Fatemiyoun crossed into Syria via the Al-Bukamal border crossing. The reinforcements, which include armored vehicles and drones, aim to bolster beleaguered Syrian forces battling rebels in the northern regions, where the army has been retreating after losing strongholds. Iraq has closed its border to facilitate the departure of additional fighters into Syria.