The article examines the role of Damascus over decades of the Assad family's rule, highlighting its strategic alignment with Iran. From the moment the Assad regime came into power, it strategically distanced itself from its Arab neighbors, opting for a policy that favored Iranian influence in the region. This alignment, established as early as the 1970s, was exemplified by the regime's support for Lebanese resistance movements, particularly through the provision of resources and safe havens for groups like the Amal Movement. The support laid a crucial foundation for Iranian Revolutionary Guard operations in Lebanon and beyond.

As the years progressed, Damascus became a sanctuary for various militia groups not only from Iran but also from Iraq and Yemen. The regime's willingness to harbor sectarian militias, as evidenced by documents tracing communications between it and the Yemeni embassy in 1984, suggests a pattern of prioritizing sectarian alliances over Arab unity. This nurturing of sectarian forces extended to include Afghan and Pakistani militias that fought alongside Iranian forces, thereby demonstrating Damascus's role as a regional hub for Iranian-backed sectarianism and military operations.

This long-term strategy raises significant implications for regional security and stability, undermining the potential for collective Arab responses to threats. The strong ties between Damascus and Tehran have transformed Syria into a pivotal player in regional geopolitical dynamics. With such a history of dependency on Iranian support, Damascus's position as a pillar of Arab national security is increasingly challenged, suggesting that the country may be more of a pawn in Iranian grand strategy than a leading force in Arab affairs.