Fires are currently devastating the Middle East, with conflicts in Israel, Lebanon, and Syria. President Barack Obama’s prediction of a Russian quagmire in Syria turned out to be incorrect as Russia and Iran collaborated to support Bashar Assad’s regime. This alliance has led to Iran using Syrian territory to train proxies who now target American allies like Israel and the Gulf states.
Syria has become an Iranian puppet state, with Assad allowing Russian and Iranian forces to operate freely within its borders. Iran’s goal is to use Syria as a base to threaten Israel, creating a “Ring of Fire” around the Jewish state. Meanwhile, Lebanon remains under Hezbollah’s control, another Iranian proxy with a significant military arsenal. The explosion at the Port of Beirut in 2020 exposed Lebanon’s vulnerabilities and economic woes, prompting calls for Western aid.
While Lebanon poses challenges for Iran and Hezbollah, Syria offers more freedom of operation due to Assad’s brutal regime and lack of opposition. Iran has been smuggling weapons, including precision-guided munitions, through Syria, prompting Israeli airstrikes in response. However, the Biden administration has largely neglected the Syrian conflict, hoping it will resolve itself.
Despite efforts by some Arab allies to engage with the Syrian regime, these attempts have failed to yield results. It is crucial for nations like Jordan and Egypt to reassess their approach, and for the U.S. Senate to pass the Assad Regime Anti-Normalization Act. It is essential for the U.S. and its allies to prevent Assad and Iran from carrying out their hostile plans in the region.
