Iran-Backed Fighters Enter Syria Amid Intensifying Conflict in Aleppo

Hundreds of Iran-aligned Iraqi fighters entered Syria on Monday to support government forces battling rebels who recently seized Aleppo, according to reliable sources. However, Lebanon's Hezbollah, a key ally of the Syrian regime, currently has no plans to join the operation.

Iran’s network of allied militias, bolstered by Russian airpower, has played a critical role in propping up Syrian President Bashar al-Assad since the rebellion began in 2011. Yet, this coalition faces new challenges following the rebels' swift advance in northwest Syria, as Russia remains preoccupied with the war in Ukraine and Hezbollah grapples with losses from its recent conflict with Israel, which concluded with a ceasefire last week.

The rebel capture of Aleppo marks their most significant victory in years. Government forces had maintained control of the city since 2016, a pivotal moment in the civil war that has killed hundreds of thousands and displaced millions. Hadi al-Bahra, head of Syria’s main opposition group, attributed the rapid fall of Aleppo to the distraction of Iran-backed groups, including Hezbollah, by ongoing conflicts elsewhere. Preparations for the Aleppo offensive had reportedly been in place for over a year but were delayed by the war in Gaza.

While Syria’s civil war had been largely dormant since 2020—with Assad holding most of the territory and major cities—the renewed fighting threatens to further destabilize a region already strained by conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. Millions of Syrians remain displaced, and global powers continue to back opposing factions in the country.

Reinforcements and Escalation

Iraqi and Syrian sources confirmed the arrival of over 300 Iran-backed fighters, primarily from Iraq’s Badr and Nujabaa groups, who crossed into Syria on Sunday via unofficial routes to avoid detection. The fighters reportedly aim to defend a significant Shi'ite shrine and reinforce government positions in northern Syria. Syrian military sources indicated that these reinforcements are being deployed discreetly to avoid airstrikes.

Iranian officials have expressed unwavering support for Assad’s government, with Tehran pledging to provide any necessary assistance. However, Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), which includes Iran-aligned militia groups, denied any official involvement in Syria.

Hezbollah’s Position

Despite its historical role as a key player in Assad’s military campaigns, Hezbollah has refrained from deploying forces to Aleppo. Sources close to the group cited its recent conflict with Israel as a major reason, with senior officers previously stationed in Syria redirected to aid in the fighting against Israel. Hezbollah has also reportedly reduced its presence in Syria since mid-October.

Meanwhile, diplomatic discussions involving Arab nations and the United States have explored ways to reduce Assad's reliance on Iran. However, the rebel advances and their potential to draw Assad closer to Tehran could complicate such efforts.

Airstrikes and Civilian Impact

Syrian and Russian air forces have intensified strikes on rebel-held areas in Aleppo and neighboring Idlib province, targeting both residential areas and displaced persons camps. The White Helmets, a rescue organization, reported civilian casualties, including children, in these strikes.

The Syrian government claimed significant victories, recapturing several towns and killing hundreds of rebel fighters. However, these assertions remain unverified. Meanwhile, rebel factions, including the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army and the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, continue their operations across Aleppo, Idlib, and Hama provinces.

Regional Implications

Turkey, a key backer of some Syrian rebel groups, denied involvement in the recent offensive, while its foreign minister called for compromise among opposition forces. Kurdish YPG fighters, who have long held positions in Aleppo, reportedly withdrew under a deal with rebel forces, signaling shifting dynamics on the ground.

The renewed fighting in Syria underscores the fragility of the region, with major players like Turkey, Iran, and Russia deeply entangled. Meanwhile, Israel has warned it will not allow the Syria conflict to facilitate weapons transfers to Hezbollah.

As the battle for Aleppo continues, the outcome will likely have significant ramifications for the balance of power in Syria and the broader Middle East.