DAMASCUS: Syrian Arab Republic President Ahmed Al-Sharaa said the Middle East region is going through a sensitive phase, stressing that the change in Syria represents a positive opportunity for the region and that most countries had benefited from this transformation.
In a special interview with Al-Mashhad TV, Al-Sharaa said some Lebanese parties remain bound by outdated assumptions despite the major challenges facing Lebanon, noting that the country is enduring a severe crisis and a narrowing of political solutions.
The president emphasized that Syria has presented a different approach to resolving the situation, explaining that discussions with the US focused on ending the war, addressing its negative repercussions on both Lebanon and Syria, and pursuing economic, political, and social solutions capable of supporting long-term stability.
Al-Sharaa stressed that ending the current situation in Lebanon requires innovative approaches rather than traditional solutions, adding that US President Donald Trump has expressed concern over developments in Lebanon and is seeking ways to halt the conflict.
He noted that comments regarding Syria’s role were misunderstood, leading to inaccurate interpretations about possible Syrian military involvement.
The president affirmed that Syria can contribute positively by supporting the Lebanese state, strengthening official institutions and helping build channels of communication among Lebanese political forces, including Hezbollah, warning that partial solutions could create further complications.
He stressed that Lebanon urgently needs strategic decisions and new ideas to help it overcome its current challenges, adding that the country has an opportunity to emerge from its crisis if it adopts approaches that go beyond conventional thinking.
Al-Sharaa reiterated Syria’s commitment to supporting Lebanon’s security and stability, noting that developments in either country directly affect the other.
He emphasized that Syria continues to extend avenues of cooperation and positive engagement, while any meaningful progress ultimately depends on Lebanese consensus.
The president underscored his belief in dialogue as the only viable alternative to conflict, stating that Syria remains ready to engage with all parties to pursue solutions that preserve Lebanon’s stability and vitality.
He stressed that the time has come for the region to move beyond wars and conflicts and focus instead on development and reconstruction.
Syria, he said, is working to identify safe and constructive solutions that can help Lebanon while serving the interests of both countries.
Al-Sharaa highlighted the importance of economic integration between Syria and Lebanon, stating that Syria seeks economic corridors rather than military ones.
He noted the historical economic links between Damascus and Beirut, as well as between Homs and Tripoli.
The president also pointed to Syria’s growing role as a strategic link between East and West, emphasizing the increasing importance of the Mediterranean coast in global supply and logistics chains.
He stressed that Syrian-Lebanese relations should be built on areas of common interest rather than points of disagreement and affirmed that Lebanon stands to benefit from deeper cooperation with Syria.
President Al-Sharaa reiterated Syria’s support for ending conflicts across the region and emphasized that economic development remains a strategic national choice.
He expressed confidence that Syria is moving in the right direction despite the challenges of recovery and reconstruction and voiced hope that the country will meet the aspirations of its people.
