Syria signals openness to dialogue with Hezbollah while seeking stronger ties with Lebanon

Syria has indicated that it is willing to meet with Hezbollah if doing so serves its national interests.

Syria has indicated that it is willing to meet with Hezbollah if doing so serves its national interests, according to Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al Shibani during his official visit to Beirut. The visit marked an important step in rebuilding relations between Syria and Lebanon as both countries work to improve cooperation while avoiding involvement in each other’s internal affairs.

Al Shibani met several senior Lebanese officials, including President Joseph Aoun and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, who is a close ally of Hezbollah. His trip came shortly after US President Donald Trump suggested that Syrian forces could play a role in confronting Hezbollah inside Lebanon. Syrian officials have firmly rejected those suggestions and have repeatedly stated that Damascus has no plans to send troops across the border.

Speaking after his meetings, al Shibani said the issue of Hezbollah was not discussed directly with Lebanese leaders. However, he added that Syria would not rule out holding talks with the group if circumstances made such discussions necessary. His remarks reflect Damascus’ effort to balance regional relationships while protecting its own security and political interests during a period of recovery after years of conflict.

The relationship between Syria’s current leadership and Hezbollah has been shaped by years of hostility. During the Syrian civil war, Hezbollah fought alongside former President Bashar al Assad, while many of Syria’s current leaders were part of opposition groups battling both Assad’s forces and Hezbollah fighters. Since taking power after Assad’s removal in 2024, Syria’s new government has focused on restoring stability and rebuilding the country after more than a decade of war.

President Joseph Aoun said Syrian President Ahmad al Sharaa had assured him that Syria would respect Lebanon’s sovereignty and would not support any political faction over another. According to Aoun, al Sharaa expressed his desire to begin a new chapter in relations based on mutual respect, cooperation, and non interference. The Lebanese president welcomed these commitments and stressed that both countries share an interest in maintaining peace and stability.

During the visit, Syria and Lebanon agreed to establish a high level joint committee to strengthen cooperation in several areas. The committee is expected to focus on economic relations, border security, and efforts to stop the smuggling of weapons and people. Al Shibani said Syria wants to leave behind the difficult history between the two neighbors and build a relationship based on trust and shared interests.

The discussions also took place against the backdrop of continuing tensions in southern Lebanon. Although fighting between Hezbollah and Israel has decreased following international efforts, clashes have not completely ended. On Thursday, Israeli forces reportedly carried out a major explosion targeting several buildings in the town of Hadatha in southern Lebanon.

Syria has remained cautious about becoming involved in regional conflicts despite its improving ties with the United States since the change in government. Officials in Damascus have repeatedly dismissed reports suggesting they may deploy forces inside Lebanon, warning that such actions could increase sectarian tensions in both countries. Instead, the Syrian leadership appears determined to strengthen diplomatic relations with Lebanon while avoiding any military role that could threaten regional stability.