Sun Dec 08 13:57:14 UTC 2024: ## Iranian Embassy in Syria Attacked Amidst Rebel Offensive
**Damascus, Syria** – Iran’s embassy in Damascus came under attack on Sunday, according to Iranian state television, following a major rebel offensive that reportedly led to the fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Footage purportedly showing the attack circulated on various news networks.
While Iranian state media reported that all embassy staff had safely evacuated prior to the assault and blamed rebel forces, this claim remains unverified. Iranian authorities have yet to officially comment on the reported fall of Assad’s regime.
The attack comes after a significant shift in Iran’s stance. On Saturday, prior to the reported fall of Damascus, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called for negotiations between the Syrian government and opposition groups, a departure from Tehran’s previous refusal to recognize rebel groups as legitimate actors. This shift follows a visit by Araghchi to Damascus earlier this month, where he met with Assad. President Masoud Pezeshkian also reiterated Iran’s support for Assad in a recent phone call.
Iran has been a staunch supporter of the Syrian regime throughout the ongoing civil war, providing military advisors. The country has suffered significant losses, with numerous Revolutionary Guards commanders killed in combat and Israeli airstrikes.
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