Tehran, Iran – Unknown gunmen stormed Iran’s embassy in Damascus on Sunday, following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government and the capture of the Syrian capital by rebel forces, according to Iranian state television.
“It is reported that an armed group, separate from Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which led the rebel offensive, attacked the Iranian embassy and nearby stores,” state TV announced. HTS has been at the forefront of rebel gains across western Syria, seizing control of key areas from government forces.
Footage circulating on Arab and Iranian media shows the aftermath of the attack, with assailants reportedly rifling through embassy furniture and documents, and windows visibly damaged. Reuters has not independently verified the authenticity of these videos.
Iran Denies Full Withdrawal, Cites Diplomatic Presence
On Saturday, Iran announced the evacuation of embassy staff families but denied claims by The New York Times that it had also withdrawn military personnel. Iran’s ambassador to Syria, Hossein Akbari, assured state television that the embassy remains operational. “The embassy is open, staffed by five or six diplomats, and conducting high-level meetings to monitor the evolving situation,” he said.
Shrine Security Assurances
Despite the upheaval, HTS has reportedly guaranteed the safety of the Sayeda Zeinab and Sayeda Ruqqaya shrines in Damascus, revered by Shia Muslims. Iran’s state TV emphasized the significance of protecting these holy sites, as they remain critical to the Iranian-Syrian alliance.
The developments mark a significant shift in the Syrian conflict, with implications for Iran’s regional influence and its longstanding support for the Assad government.
