Syrian President Ahmed al‑Sharaa Denies Lebanon Intervention, Set for NATO Summit in Ankara

Syrian President Ahmed al‑Sharaa rejected reports that Syria was planning a military intervention in Lebanon, stating “what is being circulated about Syria entering Lebanon is completely untrue.” He said border demarcation was not a priority amid Lebanon’s severe crisis, where Israeli attacks have killed more than 3,700 people, injured over 11,600 and displaced more than 1.5 million.

Al‑Sharaa is also expected to attend the NATO summit in Ankara on July 7‑8, with discussions about a possible side‑meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump still under consideration. Turkey has invited the Syrian leader, who was appointed transitional president in January 2025 after the fall of Bashar Assad’s government. His administration is seeking sanctions relief, security cooperation and foreign investment as it re‑engages with Western and regional partners.