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Notably, Russian airstrikes are intensifying in response, aiming to dislodge the advancing rebel forces. Concurrently, naval drills in the Eastern Mediterranean demonstrate Russia's military might, featuring various missile capabilities that highlight its commitment to maintaining influence in the region. Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, meanwhile, seeks greater support from his ally, Putin, amid these developments. The presence of Iranian forces is also growing, with thousands of Iraqi fighters dispatched to fortify Assad's regime, though these groups remain vulnerable to targeting by U.S. forces aiming to weaken Iran's position in Syria.