Iranian Military Advisor Killed in Clashes in NW Syria
ALEPPO, Syria (North Press) – An Iranian news agency confirmed on Thursday the death of Brigadier General Kiomars Borhashemi, commander of Iranian military advisors in Aleppo Governorate, Northwest Syria.
The Iranian official was reportedly killed during clashes with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS, formerly al-Nusra Front) and the Turkish-backed armed opposition factions, collectively known as the Syrian National Army (SNA).
The announcement comes amid escalating tensions in the region as Syrian government forces continue to withdraw from key areas.
According to a North Press correspondent, government forces recently vacated the town of Khan al-Assal in western Aleppo, a critical location near the city of Aleppo. The correspondent also confirmed Borhashemi’s death during the offensive.
A military source told North Press that the withdrawal was conducted gradually, with over 180 personnel transported to Homs Governorate in central Syria under direct orders to Hezbollah leadership in Idlib.
Hezbollah and Government Movements
Since late September 2024, Hezbollah has been relocating its forces from southern Idlib towns, including Maarat al-Numan and Khan Shaykhun, to consolidate resources and transfer control of headquarters and heavy equipment to Syrian government forces. This gradual redeployment reflects broader shifts in strategy amidst heightened opposition offensives.
HTS and SNA forces have capitalized on the withdrawals, advancing rapidly and seizing strategic locations in the countryside of Aleppo and Idlib.
Reports indicate that the opposition has approached as close as 3 kilometers from Aleppo city, with only the village of Binyan separating their positions from the outskirts of the urban center.
Implications of Borhashemi’s Death
The death of Brigadier General Borhashemi marks a significant loss for Iran’s military presence in Syria, where Iranian advisors play a pivotal role in supporting the Syrian government and its allied forces. Borhashemi’s role as a senior commander underscores the depth of Iran’s involvement in the conflict, particularly in Aleppo, a region of strategic importance.
HTS and SNA launched their coordinated offensive earlier this week, targeting government-held areas with heavy weaponry. Their actions have further destabilized the fragile balance of power in Northwest Syria, raising concerns over the potential for broader escalation.
Iran’s military and political influence in Syria remains a contentious issue in the conflict, particularly as it intersects with Turkey’s ongoing military activities and the strategic interests of other regional and international actors.