Trump: Syria Can Help With Hezbollah; Will Remove It From Terror List

President Donald Trump has signaled a potential transformation of the regional security architecture, suggesting that the new Syrian leadership under President Ahmad al-Shara could serve as a primary actor in neutralizing Hezbollah. During a joint appearance with al-Shara, Trump stated that Syria is capable of helping with the Lebanese militia and expressed his intent to delist Syria from the U.S. State Sponsors of Terrorism registry.

This development follows a series of recent statements by the President regarding Syria's potential role against Hezbollah. According to material reviewed by The Zioneer Intelligence Desk, Trump has previously suggested that the Syrian leadership—which he views as an adversary of Hezbollah—could handle the group more effectively or "surgically" than traditional military campaigns. This approach appears to be part of a broader strategy to incentivize Damascus to distance itself from the Iranian axis in exchange for international legitimacy and the removal of crippling sanctions associated with the terror list designation.

The proposal remains in a developing stage and faces significant scrutiny within Israel. While the Trump administration appears to view Syria as a pragmatic partner against Iranian proxies, Israeli security officials have previously expressed reservations. Internal reports suggest that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has held security discussions regarding the implications of Syrian forces or influence expanding toward the Israeli border. The central tension remains whether a rehabilitated Syrian government would truly act as a bulwark against Hezbollah or if such a move would inadvertently strengthen other regional actors.

For Israel and the Jewish world, the stakes involve the long-term stability of the northern border. If Syria were to actively move against Hezbollah's infrastructure, it could fundamentally alter the threat landscape in Lebanon. However, the prospect of removing Syria from the terror list while Hezbollah remains a potent force—and while Syrian intentions remain unproven—presents a complex challenge for Israeli defense planners who prioritize a "security-first" approach. The Zioneer will continue to monitor whether these verbal commitments transition into formal policy changes in Washington.