The Fatemiyoun and Zainebiyoun, Iranian-backed proxy groups in Syria, played a critical role in the Assad regime’s defense during the civil war. However, recent conflicts prompted their rapid withdrawal and the abandonment of key positions, leaving their future in question. Experts believe Iran will maintain these proxies due to regional instability and the need for reliable military support, although their immediate whereabouts remain unclear.
The Iranian proxy groups, namely the Fatemiyoun Brigade and the Zainebiyoun Brigade, originated during the Syrian civil war as part of Iran’s strategy to bolster the Assad regime against the Islamic State (IS) and other anti-government forces. Composed mainly of Afghan and Pakistani Shiites, these groups played significant roles in various battles, aiding Syrian forces in reclaiming territory. However, recent offensives from anti-Assad rebels have led to a rapid withdrawal of these proxies, resulting in abandoned bases and uncertain futures.
Amidst shifting dynamics in the region and significant challenges faced by Iranian allies such as Hezbollah and Hamas, experts suggest that Iran is unlikely to dissolve these groups, as they remain essential in maintaining influence in Syria and beyond. The Fatemiyoun and Zainebiyoun have fluctuated in number throughout the conflict, with estimates suggesting tens of thousands bolstered their ranks over the years. The groups demonstrated loyalty to the Assad regime, however, their presence has now become tenuous following recent military defeats and strategic shifts.
It is speculated that the remnants of these brigades have either retreated to Iran, crossed into Iraq, or followed retreating Hezbollah fighters into Lebanon. Despite official claims asserting their ongoing participation, evidence on the ground contradicts these assertions, revealing the extent of their withdrawal. Iranian officials remain silent on the current status of the Fatemiyoun and Zainebiyoun, leaving their exact whereabouts ambiguous as regional tensions continue to evolve.
The context surrounding the Iranian proxies in Syria is rooted in Iran’s broader objectives to expand its influence across the Middle East, particularly in support of the Assad regime during the ongoing civil war. The Fatemiyoun Brigade, composed of Afghan Shiite fighters, and the Zainebiyoun Brigade, made up of Pakistani Shiites, emerged in response to increasing threats from the Islamic State and their attempts to target Shiite sites. These groups received significant backing from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which was involved in their recruitment, training, and financing. As a result, the proxies became critical to the Assad regime’s military efforts, participating in numerous battles against IS and other opposition forces.
In conclusion, the Iranian proxy groups, particularly the Fatemiyoun and Zainebiyoun, have experienced significant operational challenges in recent weeks as anti-regime forces gained momentum. Their rapid withdrawal from previously held positions highlights the fluid landscape of the Syrian civil war. Given Iran’s urgent necessity to retain capable military forces amid regional upheaval, it is likely that efforts will be made to reorganize and utilize these proxies for future strategic objectives, despite their uncertain current status. The ongoing situation underscores the complexities of Iranian military involvement and the shifting allegiances within the region.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
