Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei declared that young Syrians will resist the new government following President Bashar Assad’s ousting, blaming the U.S. and Israel for ongoing instability. He noted that Syrian youth suffer from insecurity but must oppose foreign influences. Khamenei also claimed that Iran does not rely on proxy forces for military action, reinforcing Iran’s direct approach within regional conflicts.
TEHRAN, Iran — In a recent address, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei asserted that young Syrians are poised to resist the anticipated government following the ousting of President Bashar Assad. He attributed ongoing instability in Syria to external interference, specifically accusing the United States and Israel of creating chaos. Khamenei emphasized that the youth of Syria, feeling they have “nothing to lose,” should maintain steadfast opposition against these foreign influences, hoping for eventual triumph over them.
Khamenei further articulated that Iran’s support for Assad throughout Syria’s long-standing civil conflict was not merely an issue of geopolitical strategy but framed it within a broader narrative of resilience against American and Israeli interests. He claimed that the actions of the United States and its allies in Syria are fundamentally about seizing control over resources, rather than genuine concern for the Syrian populace. In addressing the waning influence of Iranian allies, Khamenei distanced the Islamic Republic from allegations that these groups operate merely as proxies, stating, “If one day we plan to take action, we do not need proxy forces.”
The context surrounding this declaration is rooted in the prolonged Syrian civil war, which began after President Bashar Assad responded violently to protests against his regime. Over nearly 14 years of conflict, Iran has been a pivotal ally to Assad, facilitating military and logistical support. This alliance serves as a strategic pathway for Iranian resources to Hezbollah, the militant group in Lebanon. The recent shifts in power dynamics following significant confrontations involving Israel, Hamas, and Hezbollah reflect a changing landscape for Iranian influence in the region, prompting Khamenei’s remarks aimed at bolstering Syrian morale and Iranian prestige.
The remarks by Ayatollah Ali Khamenei encapsulate a critical moment for Iran’s positioning in the Middle East. As the region experiences tumultuous change, particularly in Syria, Khamenei’s speech seeks to galvanize Syrian youth against perceived foreign aggressions U.S. and Israeli actions. Furthermore, denying the proxy narrative demonstrates Iran’s intention to sustain its alliances while asserting its influence amidst regional setbacks. Ultimately, Khamenei’s insistence on youth resistance highlights the Islamic Republic’s strategic aims as it navigates international pressures.
Original Source: apnews.com
