The Syrian Army has launched a military operation against Hezbollah to regain control of strategic border areas. Clashes in Hosh Al-Sayyid Ali have resulted in casualties for both sides and heightened security cooperation with Lebanon, indicating a significant shift in Syria’s stance toward Iranian influence.
The Syrian Army has initiated a significant military operation aimed at expelling Iran-backed Hezbollah militants from key border regions near Lebanon. This escalation represents a shift in tensions between Damascus and Tehran’s affiliates, resulting in casualties on both sides and strengthened security cooperation between Syria and Lebanon against Hezbollah’s activities.
Heavy clashes have erupted in the town of Hosh Al-Sayyid Ali, controlled by Hezbollah since 2013. Reports indicate the Syrian Army is conducting a concerted artillery and missile offensive against Hezbollah forces. An official from the Syrian defense ministry stated that the goal is to “completely retake the town” and secure the border against Hezbollah’s smuggling and arms trafficking operations.
The Syrian Army has been collaborating closely with Lebanese forces to enhance border security. The Lebanese Army has begun to counter Hezbollah’s aggressions, reflecting growing tensions even with previous allies. A military source indicated, “Our forces have been ordered to respond to any attacks from Syrian territory.”
In retaliation, Hezbollah attempted to counterattack by launching rockets into Syrian positions near Homs. This led to an intensified Syrian assault, forcing Hezbollah to retreat in several areas. Reports mention at least 12 Hezbollah fighters and 8 Syrian soldiers have been killed, highlighting the severity of the conflict.
These clashes signify a critical shift in Syria’s approach to Iranian influence. Under the leadership of President Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syrian officials are working to “restore full control” over their borders and limit Hezbollah’s unapproved operations, indicating a desire to reclaim national sovereignty and limit external influence.
Hezbollah’s potential loss of strategic footholds would challenge Iran’s regional ambitions and its so-called ‘Axis of Resistance’ against Western and Arab powers. Furthermore, setbacks for Hezbollah may embolden opposition within Lebanon, thus undermining Iranian influence in the region.
This evolving scenario illustrates deepening rifts within the Iran-led coalition, as Damascus increasingly prioritizes its own national interests over Tehran’s expansionist strategies. With escalating military pressure, Hezbollah is becoming more isolated, signaling a potential decline in Iranian dominance within Syria.
The Syrian Army’s offensive against Hezbollah marks a critical moment in the shifting dynamics of influence in the region. With significant military clashes resulting in casualties, Syria is asserting its sovereignty and collaborating closely with Lebanon to counteract Hezbollah’s operations. This development not only challenges Iranian authority in Syria but may also reshape geopolitical alliances within Lebanon, reducing Tehran’s influence in the process.
Original Source: www.ncr-iran.org
