Part 4/12:
Since reclaiming Aleppo in December 2016, Assad has consolidated his power in a densely populated strip of Syria, but his victory was largely due to the steadfast support from Russia and Iran. As these alliances evolved, tensions between Russia and Iran surfaced, particularly following Russia's focused activities following its invasion of Ukraine in 2022. This left Iran in a stronger position temporarily, as it became the primary military backer of Assad's regime. Assad seized the opportunity to build relationships with Arab nations, including attempts to mend ties with Turkey.