Syria signals diplomatic approach to Lebanon as US pushes for intervention

U.S. President Donald Trump has urged Syria to lead a military effort to disarm the pro‑Iranian Lebanese group Hezbollah. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al‑Shaibani travelled to Beirut and met Lebanese parliament speaker Nabih Berri, a close Hezbollah ally, suggesting Damascus prefers a diplomatic route. Syrian President Ahmed al‑Sharaa reportedly has no appetite for a cross‑border military operation. Analysts note that relations between Syria and Lebanon are in a “delicate transitional phase” after the 2024 overthrow of Bashar al‑Assad, with the new Syrian authorities seeking cooperation rather than interference. The meeting is seen as a reversal from earlier visits that avoided Shia leadership, indicating a willingness to engage all Lebanese factions, including those linked to Hezbollah.