Trump’s Suggestion That Syria Tackle Hezbollah Sparks Fresh Fears Across Lebanon
A proposal by US President that Syria should take the lead in dealing with Hezbollah has triggered widespread concern across Lebanon, reopening painful memories of Syrian influence and raising questions about the region’s fragile stability.
Speaking on Tuesday, Trump suggested that Israel should allow Syria to “deal with Hezbollah,” arguing that the new leadership in Damascus would be better positioned to confront the Iran-backed Lebanese militant group. The proposal marks the second time this month that Trump has floated the idea, drawing attention from political observers and security analysts across the Middle East.
While the exact nature of Trump’s suggestion remains unclear, possibilities range from Syrian forces entering southern Lebanon to target Hezbollah, to Damascus helping cut off the group’s weapons supply routes. Either scenario is likely to be met with significant resistance within Lebanon.
Historical Wounds Still Fresh
For many Lebanese, the idea of Syrian involvement in their country’s affairs revives painful memories of a period that lasted nearly three decades. Syrian troops first entered Lebanon during the country’s civil war in 1976 under the banner of peacekeeping but remained long after the conflict ended.
Throughout their presence, Syrian authorities maintained extensive influence over Lebanon’s political and security landscape. The era was marked by allegations of political interference, disappearances, detentions, and deaths, leaving a lasting legacy of mistrust among many Lebanese citizens.
As a result, any suggestion of renewed Syrian intervention is likely to encounter strong opposition from various political and religious groups across the country.
Hezbollah’s Changing Relationship With Syria
Hezbollah and the former Syrian government under President were once close allies. During the Syrian civil war, Hezbollah played a key role in supporting Assad’s government, helping preserve crucial supply routes that connected the group to Iran and Iraq.
That alliance was built on a shared opposition to Israel and a strategic partnership with Iran. However, the political landscape changed dramatically following Assad’s fall in 2024 and the rise of Syrian President .
Al-Sharaa, a former jihadist leader who has sought closer ties with Western nations, has moved to remove Iranian-backed armed groups from Syria. His leadership has received praise from Trump, who has described him as a “fighter” and a “tough guy.”
Despite speculation, Al-Sharaa recently dismissed reports suggesting Syria was preparing to intervene in Lebanon, calling such claims “completely false.”
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Sectarian Tensions Could Deepen
Analysts warn that any Syrian military involvement in Lebanon could upset the country’s delicate sectarian balance.
Lebanon’s political system is built around power-sharing among numerous religious communities, including Sunni and Shiite Muslims, Christians, Druze, and other minority groups. Hezbollah itself draws much of its support from Lebanon’s Shiite population.
Experts argue that the prospect of Syrian forces, many of whom are linked to Islamist factions, operating inside Lebanon could trigger fears among Christians, Druze, and Shiite communities alike.
Michael Young, a leading Lebanon expert and senior editor at the , described the proposal as highly dangerous, warning that it could create new divisions and further destabilize the country.
According to Young, rather than weakening Hezbollah, the presence of Syrian forces could strengthen support for the group among communities that view it as a buffer against extremist elements.
Regional Stability at Risk
The proposal also comes at a time when Lebanon is struggling to restore state authority and reduce the influence of armed groups within its borders. The Lebanese government has been attempting to strengthen national institutions and reclaim control over security matters despite Hezbollah’s significant military capabilities.
At the same time, tensions remain high along Lebanon’s southern border, where Israel continues to maintain a military presence. Recent reports indicate that ongoing diplomatic discussions involving the United States and Iran do not currently require Israel to withdraw from parts of southern Lebanon.
Trump has openly expressed frustration with Israeli Prime Minister , urging him to act more responsibly regarding Lebanon. The two leaders have reportedly disagreed over regional strategy, particularly concerning military actions involving Hezbollah and broader efforts to reach understandings with Iran.
Netanyahu recently acknowledged differences with Trump, stating that while the two leaders do not always agree, Israel would continue making decisions based on its own security interests. He also reaffirmed Israel’s intention to maintain military positions in southern Lebanon, Gaza, and parts of Syria.
Strong Reactions Emerge
Trump’s suggestion has already generated sharp criticism from Israeli political figures. Israeli National Security Minister strongly rejected the idea, arguing that Israel should not rely on Syrian forces for its security.
As debates continue, observers warn that any move involving Syrian intervention in Lebanon could have far-reaching consequences, potentially reigniting old tensions, deepening sectarian divisions, and complicating efforts to achieve lasting stability in a region already burdened by decades of conflict.
For Lebanon, a country still navigating political uncertainty and economic hardship, the prospect of renewed foreign involvement remains a deeply sensitive issue that many fear could reopen old wounds rather than solve existing challenges.
