ALBAWABA - A senior Syrian military source revealed that Iran has begun a new phase of influence in Syria by reviving its militia networks in the southern region. The move follows the collapse of the Assad regime in December 2024 and aims to reestablish Iran’s presence after more than a decade of involvement in the country.
According to the source, Iran’s efforts have recently focused on parts of Daraa province, particularly areas like Al-Lajat and Tafas. Financial support estimated in the hundreds of thousands of dollars was funneled to small local groups through individuals linked to Hezbollah. The goal, the source explained, is to rebuild loyalty to Iran’s broader regional strategy under the guise of resisting Israeli incursions in southern Syria.
The source noted that Iran and Hezbollah are leveraging public anger over continued Israeli airstrikes and ground operations that have displaced many residents. The new Syrian government's passive response to these attacks has reportedly made some locals more receptive to Iranian influence.
Although Iran is presenting the new militias as a defense force against Israel, the source said that their actual role is still in development. Current recruitment emphasizes organization and planning, with no immediate military action expected. However, there are concerns the militias could eventually engage in targeted assassinations and bombings to destabilize the region and increase tensions with Israel — particularly in Quneitra and western Daraa.
Meanwhile, the Syrian government has launched a crackdown on Iranian-linked cells. On Thursday, a security operation in Sayyida Zainab near Damascus resulted in the arrest of several Hezbollah-affiliated individuals reportedly planning criminal activities.
The source said Syrian authorities are aware Iran won’t easily give up its foothold in the country and are intensifying monitoring efforts to prevent Tehran from rebuilding its paramilitary infrastructure.
