Syria has expressed its readiness to support Lebanese political factions, including Hezbollah, in efforts to foster internal dialogue, restore peace, and ensure stability in Lebanon. This statement was made by Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa during an interview with Al Mashhad.
Al-Sharaa described Lebanon as being in a state of deep crisis, characterized by a significant reduction in opportunities for political compromise. He warned that further escalation of internal polarization could be detrimental to the country, emphasizing the urgent need for a common political consensus.
“Some Lebanese parties remain bound by outdated prejudices despite the serious challenges facing Lebanon. The country is experiencing a severe crisis and a narrowing space for political agreements… Innovative approaches, rather than traditional solutions, are required to address the current situation,” said the Syrian leader.
The president highlighted the importance of integrating and ensuring the security of Lebanon’s Shia community, particularly regarding the status of Hezbollah.
“We want to resolve the Hezbollah issue to ensure Lebanon’s survival, and we are prepared to negotiate with them if it benefits all parties. We must analyze the events and seek solutions for the security of the Shia community in Lebanon rather than jeopardizing it,” al-Sharaa stated.
Al-Sharaa also addressed recent comments from U.S. President Donald Trump regarding Syria’s potential mediating role in the Lebanese situation. He noted that Trump’s remarks had led to misinterpretations in global media suggesting that Syria was preparing for military intervention.
“Trump spoke about Syria’s role in seeking a safe and peaceful resolution, but this statement was misinterpreted as if Syria was planning to send troops into Lebanon at dawn. In reality, the U.S. is focused on ending the conflict and addressing its consequences for both Lebanon and Syria,” he explained.
The Syrian president asserted that the resolution of the crisis in Lebanon should be approached through the restoration of the country’s state system, addressing the aftermath of the war, and initiating joint socio-economic projects with Syria. He believes that bilateral relations between the neighboring countries should be based on areas of mutual interest rather than points of divergence, as Beirut stands to gain significantly from enhanced cooperation.
Earlier, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that even in the event of a potential peace agreement between the U.S. and Iran, Israeli forces would remain in areas they control in southern Lebanon, Syria, and the Gaza Strip.
During previous negotiations with the U.S., the Iranian side insisted that any ceasefire and peace agreement should also pertain to Lebanon. Hezbollah is part of the Iranian “axis of resistance,” which operates against Israel and the U.S. in the Middle East. However, the Israeli Defense Forces and Hezbollah continue to exchange strikes regularly. Trump urged Israeli authorities to refrain from shelling Lebanese territory while Washington and Tehran negotiate a peace agreement.
On June 18, the U.S. and Iran signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at ending the war in the Middle East. According to the document, both parties committed to immediately cease all military operations, including hostilities in Lebanon, and to refrain from using force or threats against each other in the future. The agreement outlines the goal of finalizing a comprehensive deal within 60 days.
On June 22, following the first round of negotiations mediated by Qatar and Pakistan, the U.S. and Iranian sides agreed on a roadmap intended to lead to a final agreement within the specified timeframe.
Syria has announced its willingness to support Lebanese political groups, including Hezbollah, to address the ongoing crisis in Lebanon. President Ahmed al-Sharaa emphasized the need for innovative solutions to foster political consensus and ensure stability in the region.