Trump presses Syria to take on Hezbollah, raising alarm in Lebanon, Israel

Key Points:

• The prospect of a Syrian invasion of Lebanon has raised concerns in Lebanon and Israel, with Israel suspicious of Syria’s Islamist-led government under al-Sharaa and controlling a strip of southern Syria since his rise to power.
• Tensions are rising between Israel and Turkey, a key supporter of al-Sharaa’s government, as both countries seek to limit each other's influence in Syria.
• Former President Trump suggested that Syria should handle Hezbollah in Lebanon, criticizing Israel's ongoing conflict with the group and expressing belief that Syria could be more precise in targeting Hezbollah.
• Syrian officials, including al-Sharaa, denied intentions to invade Lebanon, emphasizing a focus on peace, economic ties, and institutional strengthening rather than military intervention.
• Experts warn that Trump's proposal overlooks the complex realities in Syria, where forces are fragmented and the country faces immense challenges in rebuilding and stability, while Israel remains primarily concerned about Hezbollah's influence.