Iran Update, September 27, 2023
Iran deployed 50 reconnaissance officers to eastern Syria that could support Iranian efforts to prolong conflict between the SDF and Arab tribes and Operational security for Iranian and Iranian-backed forces, convoys, and positions.
Iran’s Deputy Oil Minister Jalil Salari announced on September 25 that Iran, Syria, and Venezuela had signed a memorandum of understanding to build a new oil refinery in Syria, likely to aid the Iranian economy and further solidify Iran’s economic influence over the Syrian regime.
Senior Iranian and Russian military officials reviewed Iranian advanced conventional weapons in Moscow and Tehran in August and September 2023, and may conclude a drone and missile sale agreement following the expiration of UN missile restrictions on October 18.
https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-september-27-2023
Iran Update, September 29, 2023
Tribal fighters initially rejected medical aid from pro-regime forces on August 31.[4] Leader of the Akidat tribe Musab al Hifl said in a statement on September 5 that there is no collaboration between the Arab tribes and Iran or Turkey.[5] Tribal fighters have since begun receiving aid from pro-regime forces, however. The SDF seized Iranian anti-tank rockets from tribal forces on September 25.[6]
Regime forces began arresting people who crossed from SDF-controlled territory on September 10 on charges of affiliation with opposition forces but ended the policy on September 26. The regime is now providing Arab tribesmen fleeing the fighting with an area to recuperate, on the condition that they return to fight the SDF. [7] A report from a UK-based outlet noted on September 27 that the regime is driving tribal forces in small boats to and from SDF-controlled territory.[8]
Al Hifl met with a Syrian Arab Army general in Damascus on September 20.[9] Hifl announced the formation of a tribal command on the same day involving an unspecified army.[10] It is not clear if Hifl is referring to the Syrian Arab Army or a separate entity. Pro-regime armed forces direct involvement in the insurgency would be a major inflection that risks prolonging the conflict.[11] Hifl is attempting to broaden his support base by appealing for support from “the people of the Euphrates” and calling for the return of Arab heritage to Deir ez Zor. A tribal command comprised of various anti-SDF elements would facilitate greater cohesion.
https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-september-29-2023