The strip of land to the west of Mosul in which the militias will operate is essential to that goal. It was taken by militias along with Iraqi forces on 22 September, delivering another blow to the terrorist group and an important boost to Iran’s ambitions. Photograph: Cengiz Yar for the GuardianOf all the points between Tehran and the Syrian coast, Aleppo has concentrated Iran’s energies more than anywhere else. Iran’s hard-won road ends at the port of Latakia, which has remained firmly in regime hands throughout the war. “It signifies the consolidation of Iran’s control over Iraq and the Levant, which in turn confirms their hegemonic regional ambitions,” he said.

Source: The Guardian October 08, 2016 19:25 UTC