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Iranian General Critiques Russia’s Role in Syrian Conflict
Brigadier General Behrouz Esbati of Iran has made controversial statements regarding Russia’s involvement in the ongoing conflict in Syria, suggesting that Moscow has not supported Bashar Assad’s regime effectively. During a speech in Tehran, Esbati expressed disappointment in Russia’s military actions, accusing the nation of targeting uninhabited desert areas rather than engaging with Syrian rebel positions.
Esbati’s remarks are particularly striking given Iran’s status as one of Russia’s key allies in the region. He claimed that Iranian officials were misled by Russian assertions that their airstrikes were focused on rebel forces, instead suggesting they were indiscriminately bombing empty terrain. This criticism surfaced in a speech recorded and shared by journalist Abdullah Abdi, prompting discussions around the reliability of Russia as a military partner for Tehran.
The general reflected on what he described as a significant defeat for Iran and its allies in Syria, stating, “We were defeated, and defeated very badly,” indicating that the situation has posed substantial challenges for Iran following Assad’s loss of control.
In his statements, Esbati, who represents the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps, brought attention to Russia’s failure to target specific rebel groups like Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, which has been pivotal in opposing Assad. He even accused Russia of complicity in Israeli airstrikes against Syrian targets by disabling their radar systems during such operations, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of these attacks.
Moreover, Esbati indicated that systemic corruption among Syrian officials contributed significantly to Assad’s decline, alleging that bribery was prevalent at high levels of governance. He also noted that tensions between Iran and Syria had increased following Assad’s refusal to permit Iran to launch attacks against Israel from Syrian territory.
While Esbati’s assertions could not be independently verified, they provide a rare insight into the strategic discussions occurring within Iran’s military leadership at a time when Assad’s political future appears fragile. Following the recent unrest in Syria, the complex dynamics of Iranian influence within the country may continue to evolve.
Official Iranian statements have maintained a cautious approach regarding Assad’s fate, emphasizing a belief that the resolutions to Syria’s turmoil should come from its people while offering support aimed at restoring stability.
As the situation in Syria remains in flux, Assad’s decision to flee Damascus underscored the instability that has permeated the regime. Critics suggest that Moscow’s military focus may have been diverted due to its commitments elsewhere, particularly concerning the war in Ukraine, leading to inadequacies in support for Assad’s government.
The Russian ministry has yet to respond to these allegations. Concurrently, a former aide to Assad disclosed to a Saudi media outlet that Russian assistance, which was requested by Assad, had stalled, with a lack of communication from Moscow regarding military support. This has sparked further scrutiny over the reliability of Russian backing for Assad.
As the geopolitical landscape shifts, the implications of Assad’s fall and the purported shortcomings of Russian military action could redefine relationships in the region, especially regarding Russian military infrastructure, including bases vital to its operations.
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