The Syrian Army has launched an offensive to remove Hezbollah militants from the Lebanon border, signaling a shift in dynamics between Syria and Iran. The clashes resulted in casualties on both sides, leading to increased security cooperation between Syrian and Lebanese forces. This development challenges Iran’s influence in the region as Syria, under new leadership, asserts control over its borders and curtails Hezbollah’s operations.
The Syrian Army has initiated a comprehensive military offensive aimed at expelling Iranian-backed Hezbollah militants from pivotal border regions adjacent to Lebanon. This operation signifies a notable escalation in the hostilities between the Syrian government, led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, and Tehran’s proxies. Multiple news sources reported significant clashes, resulting in casualties on both sides and heightened security collaboration between Syria and Lebanon against Hezbollah.
Heavy confrontations have erupted in Hosh Al-Sayyid Ali, a crucial border town under Hezbollah control since 2013. The Syrian Army has engaged in an extensive artillery and missile campaign directed at Hezbollah positions. A defense ministry official articulated that Damascus aims to “completely retake the town” and secure the border against Hezbollah’s activities, particularly smuggling and arms trafficking.
Official statements from the Syrian Ministry of Defense confirm the ongoing collaboration between Syrian military forces and Lebanese counterparts to enhance security along the border. The Lebanese Army’s response to Hezbollah’s provocations further illustrates the increasing tensions with former allies. A military source from Lebanon remarked, “Our forces have been ordered to respond to any attacks from Syrian territory.”
Reports indicate Hezbollah conducted retaliatory rocket assaults targeting Syrian troops near Homs, leading to an intensified Syrian counteroffensive. This response prompted Hezbollah to retreat from several positions, with reports indicating casualties of at least 12 Hezbollah fighters and 8 Syrian soldiers.
This violent confrontation signals a critical shift in Syria’s relationship with Iranian influence. The new Syrian administration is actively contesting Hezbollah’s dominance, traditionally seen as Iran’s primary military proxy in the region. Officials are committed to “restore full control” over national borders and curtailing Hezbollah’s unauthorized operations, marking an assertion of national sovereignty against external meddling.
These developments challenge the Iranian regime’s broader regional objectives. A decline in Hezbollah’s stronghold could undermine Tehran’s efforts to sustain its ‘Axis of Resistance’ against Western and Arab adversaries. Additionally, potential military failures for Hezbollah might empower internal opposition within Lebanon, consequently diminishing Iran’s sway in the nation.
This evolving scenario underscores the growing disconnect within the Iranian-led coalition as Syria prioritizes its national interests over Iran’s expansionary goals. As Hezbollah faces increasing military challenges from both Syrian and Lebanese forces, its isolation appears to be rising, foreshadowing a possible reduction in Tehran’s unchecked influence in Syria.
In summary, the Syrian Army’s recent offensive against Hezbollah marks a decisive turning point in the dynamics of regional power, signaling a shift in Syria’s stance towards Iranian influence. The collaborative efforts between Syrian and Lebanese forces indicate a robust response to Hezbollah’s provocations. The changing landscape could herald a reduction in Iran’s control in Syria and bolster Lebanese opposition factions, ultimately challenging Hezbollah’s longstanding position as Iran’s primary proxy.
Original Source: www.ncr-iran.org
