Hezbollah Acknowledges Strategic Defeat Amid Regional Influence Decline
Hezbollah MP Ali Fayyad admitted to strategic setbacks for the group due to political changes in Syria, noting new challenges and loss of logistical routes. He mentioned a shift towards an institutionalized structure in Hezbollah, while emphasizing that Lebanon’s government should manage security matters. Fayyad acknowledged the impact of the Syrian war on Hezbollah’s influence and operational capabilities.
In an interview dated March 11 with the Iranian state-operated Hammihan newspaper, Hezbollah Member of Parliament Ali Fayyad conceded that the political developments in Syria represent a significant strategic defeat for his organization. He stated, “We cannot deny it,” acknowledging the repercussions of the Assad regime’s decline on Hezbollah’s standing within the region.
Fayyad elaborated on the heightened challenges posed to Hezbollah in the wake of Assad’s departure, indicating that the new leadership in Damascus has affiliations with entities that Hezbollah has previously opposed. He described this transformative change as a serious complication for the group’s operational capacity.
The MP also pointed out the loss of crucial logistical routes for weapon supplies, indicating the necessity for Hezbollah to adapt to the evolving regional dynamics. He expressed concern regarding the new Syrian leadership’s stance towards Israel, suggesting that Hezbollah may face difficulties in relying on Syria as a dependable ally henceforth.
Regarding internal organizational changes, Fayyad discussed a paradigm shift within Hezbollah from being led predominantly by Hassan Nasrallah to adopting a more institutionalized organization under Sheikh Naim Qassem’s guidance. This shift reflects Hezbollah’s departure from its prior dependence on charismatic leadership.
In terms of military operations, Fayyad emphasized the onus on Lebanon’s government to manage security issues, downplaying the prospect of Hezbollah’s military forces merging with state institutions in the near future. He highlighted that Hezbollah’s strategy would be shaped by Lebanon’s development concerning its defense capacities.
Fayyad acknowledged the evolving relationship between Hezbollah and the Lebanese state. He remarked, “We consider this phase—the implementation of UN Resolution 1701—to be the government’s responsibility, and we are closely monitoring the situation.”
His statements unveil Hezbollah’s measured adjustment to its dwindling military effectiveness and the overall diminishing influence of the Iranian regime in the region. Fayyad explicitly recognized the significant impact of the Syrian conflict on Hezbollah, stating: “There is no doubt that the political transformation in Syria was a major strategic blow for us. We cannot deny this.” This indicates Hezbollah’s careful recalibration as it evaluates its options, showing a readiness to cooperate with the Lebanese government before considering military engagement.
In summary, Ali Fayyad’s statements reveal Hezbollah’s recognition of its declining regional power and the strategic repercussions of the Syrian conflict. The group is adapting to new realities, emphasizing collaboration with the Lebanese government over immediate military action. As the dynamics shift, Hezbollah faces uncertainty concerning its capabilities and alliances, highlighting the challenges posed by the changing landscape of regional politics and Iranian influence.
Original Source: www.ncr-iran.org
