What’s Happening

The Syrian military has launched a significant operation against Hezbollah positions in Lebanon following accusations that Hezbollah fighters executed three Syrian soldiers on Lebanese soil. The Syrian Ministry accuses Hezbollah, a Shia terrorist organization long perceived as destabilizing in the region, of violating Syrian sovereignty.

Why It Matters

This development is a testament to the shifting power structure in the Middle East. With the fall of Bashar Assad’s regime, Hezbollah, which had supported Assad alongside Iran for years, is facing mounting pressure. Any destabilization of Hezbollah is a potential strategic advantage for Israel and broader stability in the region.

By the Numbers

The Syrian operation has reportedly led to the successful capturing of key territories along the critical Syria-Lebanon border area, diminishing Hezbollah’s stronghold and movement. Reports have confirmed that at least five additional Syrian soldiers were fatally wounded, indicative of the serious engagement level.

The Big Picture

With Russian and Iranian backing diminished, any curtailment of Hezbollah’s regional influence presents opportunities for decreasing regional hostilities. HTS, currently in control in Syria, opposes Hezbollah and Iran’s influence, thereby aligning, albeit unofficially, with Israeli and Western objectives to check Iranian proxies.

The Israeli Angle

Israel has for years been expressing substantial concern over Hezbollah’s armed presence in Lebanon, particularly their weapons supply routes from Iran. Any move that weakens Hezbollah or disrupts its supply routes is a potentially favorable outcome for Israeli security matters.

What’s Next

The strategic landscape continues to evolve as new powers assert control and redefine regional allegiances. With HTS committed to reducing arms and drug traffickers — which indirectly jeopardizes Hezbollah’s logistics — Israel might see an attenuated threat from its northern border.

The Bottom Line

Israel, along with other regional players, is intently monitoring how the dynamics between Syria and Hezbollah unfold. With new territorial controls and weakening Hezbollah, there is an opening to reduce Iranian influence — aligning well with Israeli and peace-promoting Middle-East allies’ objectives.

This story was first published on foxnews.com.