Syria should think twice before talking to Hezbollah

The Syrian Foreign Ministry and Turkish presidency have both denied a Reuters report claiming a Syrian delegation met with Hezbollah representatives in Turkey. Despite denying the meeting, Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani suggested in Beirut that they are open to such discussions if the national interest demands it. Hezbollah has neither confirmed nor denied the visit.

Relations between Syria and Lebanon should, in principle, be conducted only through state institutions. However, repeated reports of arms smuggling and Hezbollah-linked cells operating in Syria raise questions about the necessity of a meeting between the two sides.

Lebanese state institutions have struggled to control the border and end Hezbollah's influence over decisions of war and peace. Despite numerous visits between officials from the two countries, key figures such as interior and defense ministers, as well as intelligence and senior security officials, often miss these meetings. In the volatile regional context, and with Iran continuing to destabilize the area, discussions of security matters should not be hindered by procedural concerns.

The main issue on the Lebanese side is a reluctance to openly discuss issues in their relationship with Syria, even when they perceive infringements of Lebanon's sovereignty or violations of its laws. The Syrian side, meanwhile, seems more concerned with appearances than the substance of the relationship. Some are still overly optimistic about the "victory," without considering that genuine state-to-state relations between the two countries have yet to be established.

While the Syrian embassy in Beirut denies any meeting with Hezbollah, the broader trajectory of Syria-Lebanon relations requires scrutiny. Caution is advised, as Hezbollah cannot simply be treated as an ordinary Lebanese actor; its actions extend beyond Lebanon's interests due to its regional connections. Syria should approach any dealings with Hezbollah with clear understanding of the relationship's implications.

Lebanese officials should openly voice their private concerns, and both countries must engage directly with one another on security, political, and economic matters, rather than relying on temporary arrangements with non-state actors.