Syrian Army Clashes with Hezbollah Fighters in Lebanon

In a significant escalation of regional tensions, Syrian Army forces aligned with the newly established Syrian administration clashed with Hezbollah fighters in Lebanon’s Hermel region. This marks the first time since the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime and the decline of Hezbollah's influence in Syria that such an armed confrontation has taken place.

The fighting, which began on Thursday morning, centered around the Syrian town of Al Qusayr, a longtime Hezbollah stronghold. Syrian forces successfully repelled several Hezbollah attempts to advance into the region, forcing them back into Lebanon. As the conflict intensified, Syrian troops crossed into the Lebanese town of Hawik in the Hermel region, where heavy fighting broke out. Hezbollah fighters were ultimately forced to retreat under fire from Syrian Army artillery and mortars.

Omar Salloum, a Lebanese political activist, revealed to The Media Line that Hawik has long been a hub for Hezbollah-run smuggling operations. The ongoing clashes, involving gunfire, mortar shelling, and exchanges of heavy artillery, further underscore the region's volatility. The Syrian Army’s success in preventing Hezbollah from advancing in Al Qusayr marks a significant shift in the Syrian government’s approach to securing its porous border with Lebanon, where smuggling operations have been rampant.

The new Syrian administration is reportedly focused on curbing the flow of arms and narcotics across its border, leading to increased military operations aimed at regaining control over the border area. Hezbollah, which has relied heavily on these smuggling routes for weapons, drugs, and other supplies, is now facing increased challenges as its influence in the region continues to wane.

Also on Thursday, the Israeli Air Force (IAF) conducted airstrikes on two Hezbollah military sites in Lebanon. These attacks were in response to the presence of Hezbollah weaponry and attempts to smuggle arms into Lebanese territory via the Syrian border. The IDF stated that Hezbollah's actions violated the current ceasefire, which remains in effect until February 18, unless extended.