“A Very Severe Defeat”
Speaking at a mosque in Tehran, General Behrouz Asbati, whose rank is equivalent to a major general in the Israeli Defense Forces, admitted, “The defeat in Syria is not something to be proud of.” Asbati, a key figure in coordinating Iran’s military operations in Syria, stated that Iran had suffered a “very severe defeat” in its efforts to maintain influence in the region. His remarks, circulated in Iranian media, represent a stark contrast to the usual rhetoric from Tehran, which has sought to downplay the significance of its strategic setbacks.
Tensions Between Iran, Assad, and Russia
Asbati revealed that relations between Tehran and Syria’s deposed President Bashar al-Assad were strained, partially due to Assad’s rejection of Iranian-backed militias’ requests to launch attacks on Israel from Syrian territory. He described presenting Assad with detailed military plans on how Iranian forces in Syria could be mobilized against Israel. However, these plans were never implemented, as the regime faced collapse under pressure from rebels. Asbati recounted being on the last Iranian flight out of Damascus the night it fell to opposition forces.
“The Situation Doesn’t Allow for Another Attack on Israel”
When asked whether Iran plans additional strikes against Israel, Asbati admitted that the current situation does not permit another direct assault. He referred to previous missile strikes as Iran’s response to recent events but clarified that further action would be constrained by regional challenges.
Criticism of Russia
Asbati directed sharp criticism at Russia, accusing Moscow of misleading Iran during joint operations in Syria. He alleged that Russian forces bombed empty areas rather than rebel strongholds and failed to protect Iranian assets when Israel launched strikes. Specifically, he claimed that Russian forces turned off radar systems during Israeli air raids, allowing the attacks to proceed unimpeded.
Systemic Failures and Iran’s Limited Options
Asbati attributed Assad’s downfall to widespread corruption, political repression, severe economic hardship, and inadequate basic services, including fuel and electricity shortages. He criticized Assad for ignoring repeated Iranian warnings to implement significant reforms.
As for why Iran refrains from targeting U.S. military bases in the Middle East, Asbati explained that such an action would provoke widespread retaliation from the United States and its allies, posing significant risks to Iran and its regional partners. He added that Iran’s conventional missiles lack the capability to penetrate advanced U.S. defense systems.
Israel’s Strategic Advantage
Asbati’s remarks highlight Israel’s successful strategy in the region, including its ability to neutralize Iranian threats in Syria. The general’s comments also underline the growing tensions within Iran’s alliances, offering a rare glimpse into the challenges facing Tehran’s regional ambitions.
