FALCON POWERS – Syria and Iran have maintained strong relations since 1979 following the Islamic Revolution in Iran, driven by a mix of strategic, ideological, and geopolitical interests. The alliance was most evident in their opposition to common regional adversaries such as Israel and Iraq (during the presidency of the late Saddam Hussein). This relationship was further strengthened during the Syrian civil war, when Iran played a crucial role in supporting the Assad government.
The Syrian government has openly aligned itself with Iran and the Lebanese Hezbollah, particularly through its participation in the so-called “Axis of Resistance,” a coalition aimed at countering Israeli and Western influence in the Middle East.
Syria views Israel as an enemy, especially after Israel’s occupation of the Syrian Golan Heights in 1967. Moreover, Damascus shares common strategic interests with Iran and Hezbollah.
Despite this, Syria’s relationships with these actors are complex and shaped by its own interests. While it relies on Tehran’s support in its fight against Syrian opposition factions that emerged after 2011—factions that still control significant provinces and cities in northern Syria and other scattered areas—there have been signs that Syria is attempting to navigate between this alliance and improving its relations with some Arab countries.
Notably, in recent years, the Arab League announced last year that it had decided to restore Syria’s membership and resume its participation in the League’s meetings and all its affiliated organizations and bodies, effective May 7, 2023. This indicates that while Syria remains allied with Iran and Hezbollah, it may be open to reevaluating its stance depending on regional developments and pressures.
