Escape with the Sponsors’ Suitcases

The fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime and his escape from Syria have drawn significant attention to the extensive financial support provided by Iran and Russia during the civil war. These contributions, which were crucial to sustaining Assad’s rule, included military aid, economic assistance, and arms supplies.

Estimates suggest that Iran provided billions of dollars annually to Syria, particularly during 2012 and 2013 when Assad’s regime had nearly lost all sources of revenue. These funds included oil and gas supplies, credit lines, and investments in infrastructure. Similarly, Russia played a key role from 2015 onward, offering direct military intervention, weapons sales, loans, and economic investments.

With Assad’s fall, the repayment of these substantial debts has become uncertain. Iran and Russia may face significant challenges in recovering their financial investments, particularly if the new Syrian government lacks the will or resources to honor these obligations. This uncertainty could lead to diplomatic and economic tensions between these countries and Syria’s new leadership.

In summary, Assad’s fall has not only triggered political and military shifts in the region but also created serious economic repercussions for his primary backers, Iran and Russia.