Former U.S. President Donald Trump called for Syria to take responsibility for combating Hizbollah in Lebanon, expressing frustration over Israel’s ongoing military campaign against the group. Speaking ahead of a bilateral meeting with the Emir of Qatar at the G7 summit in Evian, Trump suggested that Syria’s President Ahmed al-Sharaa should lead efforts against Hizbollah, arguing that this would be preferable to Israel's continued offensive.
Trump, who has been critical of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s handling of the conflict, questioned Israel’s approach, which has resulted in extensive casualties and widespread destruction in Lebanon. Since March, Israeli forces have been engaged in an offensive across southern Lebanon following Hizbollah rocket attacks in support of Iran. The war has killed more than 3,800 people and led to Israeli ground incursions into significant portions of Lebanese territory.
Urging a change in strategy, Trump stated that if Israel cannot neutralize Hizbollah without causing widespread harm to civilians, Syria should step in. He referenced al-Sharaa, who assumed power after the 2024 overthrow of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, as the figure best positioned to “do the job.” Trump also conveyed to Israeli leaders that Damascus might be more effective in confronting Hizbollah, a group historically intertwined with Iran’s regional influence.
This public endorsement for Syrian intervention comes amid delicate U.S.-Iran negotiations. Just a day prior to Trump’s remarks, Washington and Tehran reached an understanding to extend a ceasefire and reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz, despite ongoing Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon. Israel’s actions have complicated diplomatic efforts, with the Lebanese conflict emerging as a key factor in broader regional negotiations. Israel insists it will continue military operations until Hizbollah is entirely defeated, while Iran demands that Lebanon be included in any comprehensive regional agreement.
Despite Trump’s position, the Syrian government has dismissed claims of impending intervention in Lebanon. President al-Sharaa has denied such reports, affirming Syria’s support for a full ceasefire and strengthened stability and economic ties with Lebanon. Syrian authorities have prioritized national unity and rebuilding after years of civil war, with no indication of plans to engage militarily in Lebanon.
The conflict poses a significant challenge to the fragile balance in the region. While the U.S. has reportedly encouraged Damascus behind the scenes to assist in countering Hizbollah, the proposal has met resistance from both Syrian officials and Lebanon’s government. Meanwhile, enduring Israeli strikes, including repeated bombings of Beirut, have raised fears of an escalation that could undermine the recently extended ceasefire and further complicate the pursuit of a lasting peace deal linking Iran and the region.