Syrian Regime and Hezbollah Hold Secret Talks in Turkey, Iran Excluded

Representatives of the new Syrian regime under Ahmad al-Shar'a and senior Hezbollah officials held secret talks in Turkey last month, the first such meeting since al-Shar'a assumed power. The meeting, initiated by Turkish intelligence services, aimed to de-escalate tensions following the change in Damascus and address security concerns.

During the discussions, Syrian delegates reportedly demanded that Hezbollah cease arms smuggling into Syria and dismantle dormant cells, particularly in the southern region near Israel. Hezbollah, in turn, pledged not to interfere in Syria's internal affairs but did not provide a direct response to the demands. While both sides reported progress on security issues, the meeting concluded without a formal agreement, with key disputes remaining unresolved.

Notably, Iran, a key ally of Hezbollah, was aware of the talks but was not invited to participate. According to a Lebanese security source, Tehran expressed disappointment at being excluded and at al-Shar'a's decision to avoid direct contact with them. This Iranian dissatisfaction is believed to be a significant factor in the lack of a final agreement and a joint statement.

The meeting is considered unusual given that al-Shar'a's forces fought against Hezbollah during the Syrian Civil War, while the Shiite organization supported the previous Assad regime. The report by Reuters, citing six sources familiar with the matter, could not confirm the exact location of the meeting in Turkey. However, communication channels between Syria and Hezbollah, mediated by Turkey, were reportedly established two months prior.

Turkey's role in facilitating these talks and strengthening its ties with the al-Shar'a regime is reportedly aimed at expanding its influence in Syria, a development that continues to raise concerns in Israel.