Russia Cannot Drive Iran Out of Syria

A Researcher on Russia and the Caucasus in Iran believes: “In the same way that Iran cannot intervene in the future of Russian troops in Syria, Russia cannot do this either. Iran is in Syria at the invitation of the Syrian government and will leave only at their request.”

On Thursday, a day after meeting with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed the setup of a workgroup for the withdrawal of all foreign forces from Syrian territory. However, end of July this year shortly after meeting with the Supreme Leader of Iran’s envoy, Ali-Akbar Velayati, the Russian President had said that it was not Russia’s task to force Iran out of Syria.

Now, the question arises as to whether such a workgroup will be tasked with the withdrawal of Iranian troops from Syria?

Dr Mahmoud Shouri, senior researcher on Russia and the Caucasus in Tehran said: “The creation of an international workgroup for the withdrawal of foreign troops from Syria is a measure of cooperation between Israel and Russia on the future of Syria and the issue of withdrawal by US troops which was negotiated during Netanyahu's visit to Moscow and still has no operational form.”

He continued: “Israelis have great concerns in Syria one of which is the management of Iranian troops in this country. As such, they always bring up the issue in their interactions with the Russians. Tel Aviv is trying to diminish or end Iranian presence in Syria in the long run by using Russian influence. But it remains to be seen how successful it will be in these interactions.”

Dr Shouri reiterated: “Russia is also concerned about its relations with Iran and Israel and has to take this into account in its discussions. Without a doubt, Moscow cannot ask Iran or any other country to leave Syria. But overall, when conditions return to normal in Syria, the withdrawal of all foreign military forces will have to be discussed and the final decision remains with the Syrian government.”

He added: “Therefore, various powers are trying to find a way for the future withdrawal of all military forces from Syria.”

Pointing out the meeting between Netanyahu and Putin on Wednesday, he said: “This was discussed at the meeting of Russian and Israeli leaders; but the setup of an international workgroup for the withdrawal of foreign troops from Syria does not mean that Moscow is pursuing the exit of other countries or even if it means it has such a power. Currently, countries are discussing the issue and talks between Putin and Netanyahu are also a part of these discussions.”

Shouri stated: “World leaders interact and talk about their goals; but, in the same way that Iran cannot intervene in the future of Russian troops in Syria, Russia cannot do this either. Iran is in Syria at the invitation of the Syrian government and will leave only at their request. More importantly, the Syrians are not seeking the departure of Iran from their country, because this presence is inevitable and cannot be easily dismissed.”

Source: Persia Digest