Exclusive: US encourages Syrian action against Hezbollah, Damascus is hesitant, sources say - Reuters

The Trump administration is encouraging the Syrian government to take military action against Hezbollah, but Damascus has shown reluctance to do so, according to sources familiar with the matter. The push reflects U.S. strategy to isolate and weaken Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group designated as a terrorist organization by Washington, particularly following escalating tensions in the Middle East. Syria's hesitation underscores the delicate position Damascus occupies between pressure from the United States and its long-standing alliance with Iran and Hezbollah, which has provided military support during Syria's civil war. Any Syrian military action against Hezbollah could reshape regional power dynamics and risk destabilizing Syria further, while also signaling a potential shift in U.S.-Syria relations. The development comes amid broader Trump administration efforts to counter Iranian influence across the Middle East.