Syrian leader rejects Trump's proposal to fight Hezbollah

Syria's interim leader has rejected a proposal from then-US President Donald Trump for Damascus to take over the fight against Hezbollah in Lebanon. In an interview with Al Mashhad station, the leader stated that Syria is seeking economic ties with Lebanon, not military ones, and that the war must end.

“

We are looking for economic ties between Lebanon and Syria, not military ones.

He emphasized that various solutions are necessary, including economic, political, and social ones, as well as renewing relations and vital connections between Syria and Lebanon. Security measures that consider the concerns of Syria, Lebanon, and Israel are also needed, he added.

“

The war must end.

Trump had suggested that Syria could combat the Iran-backed Hezbollah group if Israel could not manage the situation. Hezbollah, a key ally of the former Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad, has been increasingly pushed out of Syria since Assad's 2024 ouster but remains influential in neighboring Lebanon. The group's attacks against Israel in early March drew Lebanon into the Israel-Iran war.

“

Various solutions are necessary, including economic, political and social ones, as well as the renewal of relations and vital ties between Syria and Lebanon.

Syria is "very concerned about the internal political situation in Lebanon," the leader said, stressing that Lebanon's security and stability are part of Syria's own security and stability. When asked if he would sit down with Hezbollah, he responded, "If it serves Lebanon's interests and protects Syria's interests, why not?"

“

Some security measures are also needed, which would primarily take into account the concerns of Syria and Lebanon, but also Israel.