Sat Dec 21 12:39:09 UTC 2024: ## Iran’s “Axis of Resistance” Under Strain After Syria Shift, but Tehran Vows to Persevere

**Tehran, Iran –** Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has dismissed claims that Tehran’s decades-long “axis of resistance” – a network of allied groups opposing the US and Israel across the Middle East – has crumbled. Following the significant shift in Syria’s political landscape, Khamenei insists the alliance, encompassing groups in Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and Palestine, remains strong, fueled by faith and commitment rather than simply military hardware. He declared the resistance will continue to expand across the region, ultimately expelling US forces.

However, analysts acknowledge the loss of Syria as a key strategic ally has significantly weakened the axis. The previously vital land route connecting Iran to Hezbollah in Lebanon has been severed, hindering the supply and support of the Lebanese group. This vulnerability has emboldened Israel, which has launched numerous strikes in Syria and intensified its attacks on Hezbollah. Israel’s actions extend to Yemen, where repeated strikes targeting Houthi infrastructure and leaders have been reported. The Houthis, in response, have launched ballistic missiles towards Israel, hitting Tel Aviv in one instance.

Meanwhile, the US has pressured Iraq to dismantle Iran-aligned armed groups, threatening military action if Baghdad fails to comply.

Despite setbacks, Iranian officials maintain a defiant stance. Commander-in-chief of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), Hossein Salami, vowed retaliation against Israel’s presence near Damascus, while Khamenei asserted that Israel’s attempts to encircle and uproot Hezbollah will ultimately result in Israel’s own downfall.

Experts suggest the axis, once characterized by geographical connectivity, close coordination, and a shared anti-US and anti-Israel ideology, has suffered significant damage to its first two pillars. While the ideological foundation remains, the network now functions with reduced capacity and coordination. The future of the axis, analysts conclude, will depend on adapting to the evolving situation in the Levant and finding a new operational structure.

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