Iran’S Raisi In Syria; Visit Hailed As ‘Strategic Victory’

Iran's President, Ibrahim Raisi, has made a historic visit to the capital of Syria, Damascus, marking the first visit by an Iranian leader since the war began in 2011. This visit highlights the strong alliance between Iran and Syria, with both countries providing economic and military support to President Bashar al-Assad. Their support has helped Assad regain control of most of the country.

Raisi stated in a TV interview that he is ready to cooperate with Syria in the process of rebuilding the nation. This visit is significant due to the close political and economic ties between Iran and Syria. The timing of the visit is crucial as it comes after Assad has secured his position in the country following years of conflict.

Strengthening Resistance and Combating Enemy Powers

Raisi's delegation includes several high-ranking ministers, including the defense minister, foreign minister, economy minister, and oil minister. The main objective of their visit is to improve what they call the "access of resistance." This is aimed at providing support to Syria to combat what they perceive as enemy powers, particularly Israel.

Iran has been subjected to attacks from Israeli forces within Syria, with numerous Revolutionary Guard officials being killed. The Iranian president aims to address these attacks and strengthen Syria's ability to defend itself. They believe that supporting Syria is crucial in countering the influence of their common enemies.

Furthermore, Raisi's delegation includes members from the private sector, indicating their intention to explore business opportunities and seal deals for the reconstruction of Syria. Rebuilding the nation after the devastating war is a key topic of discussion during the visit.

Iran's Projection of Power and Influence

The strategic alliance between Syria and Iran goes back several decades. This visit is Iran's way of projecting its power and influence in the region. With Arab states recently re-engaging with President Bashar al-Assad, who was largely isolated for over a decade, Iran wants to emphasize its close alliance with Damascus.

Iran aims to reassure Syria that their partnership will remain strong and unaffected by any re-engagement with other Arab nations. Arab foreign ministers have landed in Damascus in recent weeks, and discussions have taken place regarding the possibility of Syria reintegrating into the Arab League. This potential reintegration raises concerns for Iran, as they fear losing their influence in Syria.

Raisi's visit sends a clear message that Iran will continue to stand by Syria and maintain their close alliance. They want to ensure that any re-engagement efforts by Arab nations do not come at the expense of their relationship. Iran sees Syria as strategically valuable, with its geographic location providing an additional front against their common enemy, Israel.

Syria serves as a vital link in the land corridor between Tehran and Beirut, which allows Iran to extend its regional reach and influence. Their alliances with Lebanon and Gaza, both bordering Israel, give Iran an upper hand in the region. Therefore, this visit by Raisi is not only a show of support but also a political maneuver to maintain their hold and influence in the area.

Conclusion

The landmark visit of Iran's President Ibrahim Raisi to Syria signifies the enduring alliance between the two countries. Iran's support, both economic and military, has played a significant role in helping President Bashar al-Assad regain control of Syria. This visit aims to strengthen resistance against their common enemies, primarily Israel, and to reinforce Syria's ability to defend itself.

Additionally, Raisi's visit projects Iran's power and influence in the region, emphasizing their close alliance with Syria. Iran wants to ensure that any re-engagement efforts by Arab nations do not undermine their relationship with Damascus. Syria's strategic location and its alliances with Lebanon and Gaza provide Iran with the upper hand against Israel.

The visit also serves as an opportunity to explore business prospects and seal deals for the reconstruction of Syria. Rebuilding the nation after the war is a crucial topic of discussion during the visit. Overall, Raisi's visit marks a significant moment in the ongoing relationship between Iran and Syria, highlighting their shared interests and goals in the region.