Syrian Army Initiates Offensive Against Iranian-Backed Hezbollah Near Lebanon Border

The Syrian Army has launched a military offensive against Hezbollah militants in border areas with Lebanon, leading to intense clashes and casualties. This operation signals a shift in Syria’s policy towards Iranian influence, as the new administration seeks to secure national sovereignty and diminish external interference. Hezbollah’s setbacks may weaken Iran’s grip in the region and embolden opposition in Lebanon.

The Syrian Army has initiated a military offensive aimed at expelling Hezbollah militants, backed by the Iranian regime, from key border areas adjacent to Lebanon. This operation represents a marked increase in hostilities between Damascus and Tehran’s affiliates. Reports state that clashes have resulted in casualties on both sides, heightening Syrian-Lebanese collaboration against Hezbollah, as indicated by multiple sources including Al Arabiya and Sky News Arabia.

Heavy confrontations are reported in Hosh Al-Sayyid Ali, a strategic town under Hezbollah control since 2013. According to Al Arabiya, the Syrian military is executing a sustained artillery and missile campaign against Hezbollah positions. A Syrian defense ministry spokesperson stated that the objective is to “completely retake the town” and secure the border against Hezbollah activities, such as smuggling and arms trafficking.

Sky News Arabia reported that the Syrian Army is reinforcing cooperation with Lebanese forces to ensure border security. The Lebanese Army has begun responding to Hezbollah’s aggressions, signaling internal conflicts within Lebanon regarding Hezbollah’s conduct. “Our forces have been ordered to respond to any attacks from Syrian territory,” stated a military source from Lebanon.

Amid these developments, Hezbollah has retaliated with rocket assaults directed at Syrian Army bases near Homs. However, the Syrian military responded with heightened offensives, leading to significant losses for Hezbollah, including at least 12 fighters and 8 Syrian soldiers, as reported by Sky News Arabia.

These confrontations signify a critical change in the Syrian government’s approach towards Iranian influence. Under the leadership of President Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syria appears to be decisively realigning its foreign policy to reassert sovereignty and curb Hezbollah’s extrajudicial actions. Syrian officials have voiced their commitment to “restore full control” over borders, highlighting results aimed at reducing foreign interference in Syrian affairs.

The risks faced by Hezbollah and the potential diminution of its presence in Syria pose substantial challenges to Iran’s regional ambitions. The loss of strategic strongholds by Hezbollah could impede Tehran’s efforts to uphold its ‘Axis of Resistance’ against Western and Arab opponents. Moreover, setbacks for Hezbollah might instigate a resurgence of domestic opposition in Lebanon, potentially weakening Iran’s foothold in the nation.

As the situation unfolds, it becomes evident that fissures are developing within the Iran-led alliance, with Syrian interests taking precedence over Tehran’s expansionist pursuits. Confronted with military action from both Syrian and Lebanese forces, Hezbollah is increasingly left without allies, suggesting an erosion of Tehran’s unilateral control in Syria.

In summary, the recent operations by the Syrian Army against Hezbollah signify a notable shift in Syria’s relationship with Iranian influence. The offensive illustrates Syria’s commitment to reclaiming control over its borders and limiting Hezbollah’s unauthorized activities. This scenario not only endangers Hezbollah’s military presence but also threatens Iran’s broader strategic objectives in the region. The resulting isolation of Hezbollah may foreshadow an altering power dynamic within Lebanon and Syria, creating potential consequences for Iranian authority across the Middle East.

Original Source: www.ncr-iran.org