DAMASCUS — Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa has ruled out any military intervention in Lebanon against Hezbollah, stressing that Syria does not seek a return to domination or “tutelage” over Beirut.
In an interview, al-Sharaa said, “We have a deep problem with Hezbollah, but we do not want all of Lebanon to die,” rejecting interpretations that Damascus might engage in military operations inside Lebanon.
His comments came after reports that Donald Trump suggested the post-Assad Syrian leadership could play a more “precise” role in confronting Hezbollah, while criticizing Israel’s broader military approach in Lebanon. U.S. Vice President JD Vance has also echoed concerns over Israel’s conduct in the conflict.
Al-Sharaa pushed back on those interpretations, saying Syria would not violate Lebanese sovereignty and would instead focus on political and economic channels between the two countries.
“We are looking for economic channels between Lebanon and Syria, not military ones,” he said, emphasizing that any solution must avoid large-scale violence and civil war.
He added that Syria is open to limited security coordination if it serves both Syrian and Lebanese interests, but insisted that Lebanon’s internal affairs must remain sovereign.
The Syrian president also acknowledged efforts aimed at disrupting Hezbollah’s alleged supply and financing networks linked to Iran, but said any resolution should prioritize diplomacy over escalation.
The remarks come amid shifting regional diplomacy involving Lebanon, Syria, and broader U.S.-Iran negotiations, as actors attempt to stabilize tensions around Hezbollah and prevent a wider regional war.
Syria’s position reflects its complex historical relationship with Lebanon, having previously exerted strong influence over the country before withdrawing its military presence in 2005.
Al-Sharaa also signaled that, if necessary and agreed upon by Lebanon, Syria could engage in political dialogue even with Hezbollah, stating: “If this serves Lebanon’s interests and safeguards Syria’s interests, why not?”
