An article in Egyptian daily Al Ahram, that speaks for government policy, claims the explosive situation in Syria is not only targeting Iranian influence in Syria and Lebanon but also comes at a time that Iran is holding exploratory talks with advisors to President-elect Donald Trump.
Entitled “Middle East: The Domino Effect,” the article by Manal Lotfy first details how the conflict clearly targets Iran’s support for the Syrian regime as well as Hezbollah, and warns that it could also destabilize Iraq. While supporting the Astana process of Russia, Iran and Türkiye, Lotfy writes, “Türkiye’s role in the Syrian conflict adds another layer of complexity to Iran’s calculations. Ankara has historically supported opposition groups in Syria but has recently sought to normalise ties with the Al-Assad regime. However, the rebel offensive, which includes Türkiye-backed factions, suggests a recalibration of Turkish strategy.”
He goes on that just prior to the renewed conflict in Syria, “Tehran had been deeply engaged in high-level diplomatic efforts across the region and Europe. These talks also extended to individuals with close ties to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s inner circle, aiming to explore avenues for dialogue and diplomacy rather than escalation and entrenched hardline positions. During these exchanges, Iran adopted a tone and rhetoric markedly distinct from its customary approach.”
