Iranian MP Affirms Support For Syria Amid Own Economic Crisis

During a visit to Damascus, Vahid Jalalzadeh, the head of Iran's parliamentary national security and foreign policy commission, conveyed the message that Iran's support to Syria extends beyond military aid.

"Just as we have been with the Syrian government and people in the war with terrorists, we will also be with them in the economic war," Jalalzadeh said during his visit. He also emphasized Iran's stance against foreign presence on Syrian soil, rejecting any foreign intervention, “be it Turkish or American.”

Arriving in Syria on Monday with a delegation for a three-day visit, Jalalzadeh held discussions with Prime Minister Hussein Arnous and Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad.

The extent of Iran's military expenditures in support of Syria's President Bashar al-Assad remains undisclosed. While initial estimates placed the support between $20 billion and $30 billion, evidence of Iran's increasing industrial capabilities suggests the true figure could be significantly higher. Leaked documents from Iran's foreign ministry reveal that Syria's debt to Iran has reached $50 billion, stemming from a long-term agreement signed in January 2019.

Many Iranians have raised discontent with their government's regional policies and its financial aid to militant groups, particularly in light of domestic economic challenges. Inflation exceeding 50 percent and a devalued national currency have led to widespread economic hardship, with nearly half the population living below the poverty line.