Shiebani’s recent visit to Lebanon signals a potential shift in Syrian-Lebanese relations, as Damascus seeks to engage through official state legitimacy rather than specific political factions. According to researcher Al-Amin, Shiebani met with all official Lebanese representatives, including Speaker Nabih Berri, to establish a relationship based on mutual interest and institutional recognition.
How is Syria approaching Hezbollah and Lebanese legitimacy?
During the visit, Shiebani maintained a diplomatic stance regarding Hezbollah, appearing to distance current Syrian policy from past grievances. Al-Amin noted that Shiebani used careful language to avoid a direct refusal to meet with the group, which prevents Syria from appearing to intervene in Lebanon’s internal conflicts.
Al-Amin explained that Syria’s current approach prioritizes the “public interest” of both nations. This means that if a meeting with Hezbollah is deemed necessary for bilateral interests, Syria will not take a side against any Lebanese faction.
Al-Amin explained that Shiebani’s answer came within the framework of the public interest, meaning that if the public interest between the two countries required holding a meeting with Hezbollah, Syria would not be in a position of being a party against another party within Lebanon, and would not stand by the past and Hezbollah’s participation alongside Bashar al-Assad in killing the Syrian people.
Despite this diplomatic pivot, Al-Amin emphasized that Speaker Nabih Berri continues to provide political cover for Hezbollah’s decisions and trajectory, even as the Shia community and the South face significant costs.
What are the implications for the Lebanon-Israel agreement?
Shiebani addressed the proposed framework agreement between Lebanon and Israel, stating that the matter is strictly a Lebanese decision to be determined by its government. However, Al-Amin highlighted a significant caveat Shiebani brought to Beirut: Lebanon should not rush into signing any agreement due to the current military pressure in the South.
According to Al-Amin, this warning suggests that Syria views a Lebanese-Israeli peace deal as a potential threat to its own regional standing. If Lebanon signs a deal, Syria could become the last country in the region to do so, which may weaken Syria’s future negotiating position.
How does the new Syrian regime aim to reshape its relationship with Lebanon?
The new Syrian regime is reportedly attempting to convince the Lebanese people that it is distancing itself from previous eras of interference. Al-Amin stated that Damascus is seeking to open a new chapter characterized by a different approach to its Lebanese neighbors.
This proposed relationship is intended to be one of equality and mutual respect rather than the dominance and subordination seen in the past. The goal, according to Al-Amin, is to build a constructive and positive connection that avoids any form of obstruction, authority, or threat to either nation’s interests.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Shiebani’s stance on meeting with Hezbollah?
Shiebani used diplomatic language to suggest that Syria would not oppose meetings with Hezbollah if they serve the public interest between the two countries, regardless of Hezbollah’s past involvement in the Syrian conflict.
Why did Shiebani warn Lebanon regarding an agreement with Israel?
While acknowledging the agreement is a Lebanese matter, Shiebani warned against rushing into a deal due to pressure in the South. Al-Amin suggests this is because a Lebanese deal could weaken Syria’s future negotiating leverage in the region.
How does the new Syrian regime describe its future goals for Lebanon?
The regime aims to move away from a relationship of dominance toward one of equality, mutual respect, and constructive cooperation that serves the needs of both peoples.
Do you believe a relationship based on “equality” can successfully replace decades of regional political dominance?
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