Russia's recent use of Shahid Nojeh Air Base in Iran's western province of Hamadan to conduct military operations in Syria has brought about divisions within the Iranian elite where one group rejects the move and called it a breach of the Iranian constitution and national security, and an indication that Iran's pivotal role in Syria in shrinking. On the other hand, the second group backs the move on the basis that it contributes towards stronger military cooperation with Russia and reaffirms their aligned positions on the conflict in Syria. On the other hand, the new controversy has affected an already existing dispute surrounding the jurisdictions of the various state institutions and in particular the Consultative Assembly.