Khamenei Accuses US, Israel in Assad's Downfall

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has accused the United States and Israel of orchestrating the downfall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, whom he described as a key ally in Iran's 'axis of resistance'. Khamenei claimed that a 'neighboring country', believed to be Turkey, played a significant role in supporting the opposition forces that led to Assad's overthrow. Despite the loss, Khamenei emphasized that Iran's influence in the region would not diminish, asserting that Syrian territories would eventually be liberated by local youth. He also pointed out that Iranian intelligence had warned Assad of threats, which were allegedly ignored. The fall of Assad is seen as a major setback for Iran's strategic alliances, prompting internal debates in Iran about its foreign policy and investments in Syria. Khamenei's rhetoric suggests a continued commitment to resisting U.S. and Israeli influence in the Middle East, while also hinting at potential future shifts in Iran's regional strategy.