Iran and Syria are at the center of major issues within the Middle Eastern system, such as the Iranian nuclear program, escalating tensions between Iran and the U.S., Iran's presence on Syrian territory and Israel's response, the role of Hezbollah in Lebanon, and the future of Assad's regime in Syria.

The roots of the alliance between Syria and Iran can be traced back to the geopolitical landscape that was formed in the Middle East after 1979 and the Iranian Revolution. The catalyst for this alliance has been Lebanon, where the regional perspectives of Syria and Iran have since converged.

The Lebanese war (1975-1990) and the emergence of Hezbollah elevated Damascus's influence in the neighboring country, and Tehran gained foothold and influence in the Mediterranean.

After the military conflicts in Iraq (2003), Lebanon (2006), and Syria (2011), Iran expanded its influence within the Arab geographical center, solidified its presence in Baghdad and Damascus - the two historic Arab capitals - and united its regional power, which now extends from Tehran to Beirut.