Fall of Assad, rise of Trump: Why 2024 was a very bad year for Iran
The downfall of Bashar al-Assad in Syria marked the culmination of a tumultuous year for the Iranian regime. With setbacks in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, Iran’s Axis of Resistance suffered significant blows. The Iranian currency plummeted to become the world’s lowest valued, and tensions escalated as Israel targeted Iran’s proxy forces. The election of a U.S. president despised by Iran added to the regime’s woes.
In April, Israel bombed the Iranian embassy in Syria, prompting a failed retaliation from Iran with drones and missiles. May saw the tragic death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash, casting a shadow over potential leadership succession. In July, Israel successfully eliminated Hamas commander Ismail Haniyeh during his visit to Tehran, disrupting Iranian plans.
October witnessed the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, a significant blow to Iran’s efforts in Gaza. The loss of Sinwar and other key figures weakened Hamas, diminishing Iran’s influence in the region. November brought further challenges with the election of a new U.S. president, causing Iran’s currency to plummet and raising concerns about a return to harsh sanctions.
Throughout the year, Israel intensified efforts against Hezbollah in Lebanon, leading to a ceasefire agreement in November. The fragile truce between Hezbollah and Israel has held, but tensions remain high. In December, Syrian rebels captured Damascus, forcing Iran’s Quds forces to retreat. The fall of Assad’s regime dealt a severe blow to Iran’s influence in the region, disrupting supply lines to Hezbollah.
The Iranian regime faces a challenging road ahead as it navigates the fallout from a series of setbacks. The loss of key allies and strategic positions have weakened Iran’s position in the Middle East. As tensions with the U.S. and Israel persist, Iran must reassess its regional strategy and adapt to a changing geopolitical landscape.
