Factsheet: The Iranian-Backed Militias Propping up Assad
by TheTower.org Staff | 11.03.17 4:54 pm
Iranian involvement in the Syrian conflict has gradually escalated since the beginning of the uprising in the country in 2011. As the result of international sanctions against Damascus and the drastic weakening of the Syrian economy, Iran has financially propped up the country by granting at least $4.6 billion in credit lines, as well as illicit deliveries of oil and military aid. By mid-2015, it was estimated that total financial support for Syria from Iran amounted to between $6 billion and $20 billion annually.
This aid was granted despite the pressure on the Iranian economy caused by the sanctions, leading to speculation that Tehran would be forced to make a choice between continued expenditure in support of Damascus and domestic priorities. However, the signing of the JCPOA resulted in both the lifting of sanctions and the unfreezing of around $100 billion in assets, considerably reducing pressure on the Iranian economy.
Graphic above is interactive at link, continued at: http://www.thetower.org/5597-factsheet-the-iranian-backed-militias-propping-up-assad/
Again, I'm a bit weary as to making Iran the bogey-man. Just posting for reading.
