Syrian Army Intensifies Offensive Against Hezbollah Along Lebanon Border

The Syrian Army has launched a full-scale operation to expel Hezbollah from strategic areas near Lebanon, marking a significant shift in Syria’s stance against Iranian influence under President Ahmed al-Sharaa. The operation has led to clashes resulting in casualties on both sides and strengthened cooperation between Syrian and Lebanese forces. This could herald a decline in Tehran’s dominance in the region.

The Syrian Army has initiated a comprehensive military offensive aimed at expelling Hezbollah militants, who are supported by the Iranian regime, from crucial border regions near Lebanon. This move signifies a notable escalation in the conflict between Damascus and Tehran’s proxies, leading to casualties on both sides while enhancing security coordination between Syria and Lebanon against Hezbollah’s activities.

In Hosh Al-Sayyid Ali, a town controlled by Hezbollah since 2013, the Syrian military has engaged in intense fighting with the group. Reports indicate that the Syrian Army is conducting a sustained artillery and missile campaign aimed at Hezbollah’s positions. An official from the Syrian defense ministry remarked that Damascus is focused on completely regaining control of the town and curtailing Hezbollah’s operations, particularly in smuggling and arms trafficking.

Additionally, the collaboration between the Syrian Army and Lebanese forces underscores the increasing tensions within Lebanon concerning Hezbollah’s actions. The Lebanese Army has also been ordered to react to any provocations originating from Syrian territory, illustrating the extent of frictions even amongst former allies.

Hezbollah has attempted to counterattack Syrian forces, employing rocket strikes against their positions near Homs, but this resulted in intensified assaults by the Syrian Army, causing Hezbollah to retreat from various locations. Reports from Sky News Arabia indicate substantial losses, with significant casualties on both sides, indicating a notable shift in the conflict dynamics.

The recent confrontations along the Lebanon-Syria border reflect a crucial change in the Syrian government’s approach toward Iranian influence. Under the leadership of President Ahmed al-Sharaa, there seems to be a concerted effort to reclaim full sovereignty, culminating in the assertion of control over national borders and the curb of Hezbollah’s actions.

This situation poses a serious threat to Iran’s regional ambitions. The potential loss of key positions held by Hezbollah in Syria could diminish Tehran’s capacity to maintain its so-called ‘Axis of Resistance’ against Western and Arab adversaries. Furthermore, such military reversals for Hezbollah might inspire internal opposition within Lebanon, leading to a decline in Iranian influence vastly.

As tensions rise, the dynamics within the Iran-led alliance appear increasingly fractured, with Damascus prioritizing its national interests over the ambitions of Tehran. With mounting military pressure, Hezbollah is becoming more isolated, a sign that could foreshadow a significant shift in Tehran’s unchecked power within Syria.

In summary, the Syrian Army’s recent military offensive against Hezbollah represents a pivotal change in the power dynamics between Syrian and Iranian forces. This confrontation not only exemplifies the growing assertiveness of the Syrian government under President Ahmed al-Sharaa but also highlights potential weakening of Iranian influence in Lebanon and Syria. As tensions escalate, it remains crucial to monitor these developments that may reshape regional alliances and confrontations.

Original Source: www.ncr-iran.org