Syria’s New Leader Promises Non-Interference in Lebanon Amidst Regional Rebalance
In a significant strategic shift, Syria’s new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa has pledged that his administration will respect Lebanon’s sovereignty and will not interfere negatively in its affairs. This declaration came during a meeting with Lebanese Druze leaders Walid and Taymur Jumblatt, where Sharaa acknowledged Syria’s historical role as a source of “fear and anxiety” for Lebanon. He emphasized the new government’s commitment to maintaining a neutral stance toward all Lebanese factions, signifying a potential thaw in relations with Beirut.
Sharaa, who assumed power following a successful coup on December 8 that toppled Bashar al-Assad, has swiftly engaged regional powers to establish legitimacy. Notably, he met with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, highlighting Turkey’s influence in supporting his Islamist faction, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). Turkey, which has had robust ties with Syria’s emerging leadership, also sent its intelligence chief to Damascus shortly after Assad’s fall.
Saudi Arabia has indicated a willingness to rekindle contact with Syrian authorities, breaking from its previous support for opposition forces during the Syrian civil war. A Saudi delegation is expected to visit soon, signaling a possible shift in regional alliances.
Despite concerns over HTS, which is deemed a terrorist organization by multiple governments, Sharaa’s engagement with global leaders suggests an attempt to moderate the group’s extremism. The international community, including the U.S. and the EU, is urging the new Syrian regime to uphold protections for women and minorities as it navigates its future in a post-Assad landscape.
Iran’s leadership, meanwhile, expressed confidence that Syria’s new governance could resist external instability, reinforcing Tehran’s longstanding ties with Damascus despite the recent upheaval. The evolving dynamics in Syria could reshape relationships in the region significantly.
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