The Syrian Army has launched an offensive to expel Hezbollah militants from border areas with Lebanon, resulting in casualties and increased cooperation with Lebanese forces. This military action signifies a shift in Syria’s stance toward Iranian influence, with the new administration under President Ahmed al-Sharaa aiming to reclaim national sovereignty. The situation poses challenges to Hezbollah and Iran’s regional aspirations, signaling potential declines in Tehran’s influence.
The Syrian Army is currently engaging in a large military operation aimed at dislodging Iran-backed Hezbollah militants from key border regions adjacent to Lebanon. This escalation indicates a growing rift between the Syrian government and Tehran’s allied militia forces. Reports from sources such as Al Arabiya highlight that the clashes have resulted in casualties on both sides and that there is an enhanced security collaboration between Syria and Lebanon to counter Hezbollah’s influence.
Significant fighting has erupted in the town of Hosh Al-Sayyid Ali, held by Hezbollah since 2013. The Syrian Army has initiated an extensive artillery and missile offensive against Hezbollah positions. A Syrian defense ministry representative emphasized the objective of “completely retaking the town” and safeguarding the border against Hezbollah’s activities such as smuggling and arms trafficking.
Collaborating efforts have been noted between the Syrian military and Lebanese forces to bolster border security. The Lebanese Army is responding to attacks by Hezbollah, showcasing the group’s actions have antagonized past allies. According to a Lebanese military representative, “Our forces have been ordered to respond to any attacks from Syrian territory.”
In retaliation to Syrian assaults, Hezbollah has attempted to counterattack with rocket strikes targeting Syrian Army positions near Homs, leading to intensified Syrian responses and the retreat of Hezbollah from several locations. Recent reports suggest heavy losses for Hezbollah, with casualty figures reportedly including 12 militants and 8 Syrian soldiers.
This clash signifies a crucial shift in Syria’s approach to Iranian influence, with Hezbollah’s role being challenged under President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s administration. Syrian officials have stated their intent to “restore full control” over their borders, diminishing Hezbollah’s unauthorized operations, and indicating a desire for greater sovereignty and less foreign control.
This development could severely threaten Iran’s regional aspirations. Loss of strategic positions by Hezbollah would compromise Tehran’s capability to sustain its so-called ‘Axis of Resistance’ against Western and Arab adversaries. Furthermore, military challenges faced by Hezbollah could provoke greater opposition within Lebanon, progressively undermining Iran’s dominance in the region.
The lead-up to this military engagement underscores the growing tensions within the Iran-led axis, as the Syrian regime is increasingly prioritizing its national interests over supporting Tehran’s expansionist strategies. Continual military pressure from Syrian and Lebanese forces may further isolate Hezbollah, potentially signaling a decline in Iran’s influence within Syria.
The Syrian Army’s offensive against Hezbollah marks a significant escalation in the conflict along the Lebanon-Syria border. This operation challenges Iranian influence and could reshape the power dynamics in the region, as Syria seeks to assert its sovereignty and limit foreign involvement. The military setbacks for Hezbollah may embolden internal opposition within Lebanon, indicating a potential shift in alliances and power balances.
Original Source: www.ncr-iran.org
