Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham announced that Syria will not negatively interfere in Lebanon’s affairs during a meeting with Lebanese Druze leaders, affirming respect for Lebanese sovereignty and territorial integrity. This declaration comes amidst initiatives to mend Syria’s foreign relations post-civil war and marks a pivotal diplomatic engagement with Lebanon.
Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) has assured that Syria will refrain from any “negative” interference in Lebanon’s domestic matters. During a meeting with Lebanese Druze leaders Walid and Taymour Jumblatt, HTS leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, also known as Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, emphasized Syria’s commitment to respecting Lebanon’s sovereignty and ensuring its territorial integrity and security. This statement comes in the context of ongoing efforts to mend Syria’s relationships with neighboring countries amidst the backdrop of its prolonged civil conflict.
Sharaa stated that Syria intended to maintain neutrality regarding the Lebanese factions, acknowledging the country’s history of being impacted by Syrian involvement, which has often been viewed as a source of trepidation. The historical context of Syrian influence in Lebanon is significant, with military occupation of parts of Lebanon from 1976 to 2005 having left lasting impressions on the relationship.
Recently, as Syria’s civil war displaced many, resulting in over a million refugees in Lebanon, diplomatic interactions between the two nations have quieted but are currently being revisited. The delegation led by Jumblatt marks a pivotal moment as he becomes the first Lebanese leader to engage with Syria’s new authorities, highlighting a possible shift in relations moving forward. Within Syria, the Druze community has faced challenges from various entities, making this engagement vital for their communal stability.
The relationship between Syria and Lebanon has been complex and intertwined, characterized historically by military intervention and political influence. Syrian troops occupied Lebanon for nearly three decades, significantly impacting internal Lebanese affairs and stoking fears among various sectarian groups. Following the civil war in Syria that began in 2011, Lebanon experienced an influx of Syrian refugees, complicating the sociopolitical landscape further. The recent overture by HTS to assure a non-interference stance signals a potential change in Syria’s approach to its neighbor as it seeks normalization after years of conflict.
In summary, HTS has pledged that Syria will not interfere negatively in Lebanon, promoting respect for Lebanese sovereignty and territorial integrity. This statement marks a crucial step drawn from the ongoing efforts to restore Syria’s diplomatic ties with its neighbors after years of civil strife. The interaction between HTS and Lebanese Druze leaders signals a significant diplomatic opening that may reshape the fragile relationship between the two nations.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
