Hashemiyoun
Hashemiyoun was a Shia Syrian tribal militia group. It was founded in early 2021 and was reportedly backed by Iran. It was primarily made up of Shia Muslims from Syria. It operated in Eastern Syria until the collapse of the Assad regime.
Founding
According to reports, the group was founded in 2021 by Shia Syrians in Abu Kamal, Eastern Syria, with backing from Iran. It was primarily made up of Shia Syrians, including tribal fighters who had converted to Shia'ism. It was founded and headquartered in the city of Abu Kamal in Eastern Syria.Role in Syria
Combat support
The Hashemiyoun Brigade was formed with Iranian support to primarily combat the influence of the Islamic State and the Syrian [Democratic Forces] in Eastern Syria, using Shia tribal fighters from the local region. The brigade was also formed to fight alongside other Iran-backed militias and to alleviate pressure on Shia foreign fighters and Shia militias who were already fighting in Eastern Syria.Trust-building
The group was also used as a way for Iran to build trust among the tribal communities of Bedouins in Eastern Syria.Ideology spreading
It was alleged that the group was used to convert Syrians to Shia Islam and exploit sectarian division in Syria. It also alleged of spreading the ideology of Iran's Islamic Revolution.Organization
According to available sources, the group's leader was Youssef Al-Hamdan, also known as Abu Issa Al-Masshadani. Along with Al-Hamdan, Musa Al-Mahmoud, who was appointed by Iran as a dignitary in Abu Kamal, was also a known leader in the group.The group was estimated to have around 200 fighters.
The group reportedly recruited Shia tribesmen from Bedouin tribes in Eastern Syria, who were a part of the Iranian-affiliated Euphrates Valley Tribes and Clans Council.