Hezbollah MP Ali Fayyad admits to significant strategic setbacks due to the political transformation in Syria, which has changed Hezbollah’s operational landscape and alliances. He emphasizes a shift in organizational structure and acknowledges the challenges of losing logistical routes and support, while calling for Lebanon’s government to lead security issues.
In a recent interview with Hammihan, Hezbollah MP Ali Fayyad acknowledged that the political shift in Syria marks a significant strategic defeat for Hezbollah. He noted the crucial impact of Assad’s regime falling from power on Hezbollah’s regional influence, saying, “We cannot deny it.”
Fayyad outlined the new challenges facing Hezbollah, particularly how the new leadership in Syria is allied with groups previously opposed by Hezbollah. This shift complicates Hezbollah’s operational effectiveness, necessitating adaptation to the new political landscape.
He also pointed to the loss of essential logistical routes for weapons supplies, indicating that Hezbollah now confronts a transformed regional environment. He expressed concern about the changing dynamics with Syria, noting that the organization is vigilantly observing Syria’s stance toward Israel, signaling potential instability in ally relations.
Transitioning to the structure within Hezbollah, Fayyad revealed a shift from a leader-centric model under Hassan Nasrallah to a more institutionalized framework led by Sheikh Naim Qassim. He emphasized the group’s move away from dependency on charismatic leadership to a structured operational model.
Regarding military operations, Fayyad stated that Lebanon’s government must oversee security issues. While he dismissed the immediate integration of Hezbollah’s military forces into state institutions, he suggested that developments in Lebanon’s defense capabilities might influence future approaches.
He expressed awareness of Hezbollah’s evolving relationship with the Lebanese state, recognizing it as a key phase: “We consider this phase—the implementation of UN Resolution 1701—to be the government’s responsibility and we are closely monitoring the situation.”
Fayyad’s candid remarks shed light on Hezbollah’s strategic reevaluation against a backdrop of growing Iranian regional decline, showing a reluctant readiness to collaborate more closely with the Lebanese government rather than resorting to military solutions.
Hezbollah faces significant strategic challenges as it navigates the aftermath of the Syrian civil war and the diminishing influence of Iran in the region. Ali Fayyad’s acknowledgment of these setbacks reflects a need for adaptation, both operationally and structurally. His insights suggest that Hezbollah is recalibrating its approach, prioritizing collaboration with the Lebanese government while confronting new regional dynamics.
Original Source: www.ncr-iran.org
