Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu is expected to hold a special security discussion on Wednesday focused on developments in Syria and their implications for Lebanon, following recent remarks by President Donald Trump suggesting that Syria could play a role in dealing with Hezbollah, Channel 12 reported.

Israeli officials view Trump’s comments as a serious indication of potential regional shifts rather than an offhand remark. According to the report, officials familiar with the issue believe broader strategic moves may be taking shape behind the scenes, moves that could significantly alter the balance of power in Lebanon.

Israeli officials have identified signs in recent weeks that Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa is seeking to expand Syria’s influence in Lebanon and potentially establish a foothold in parts of the country.

Israel is concerned that Syria could regain the dominant position it held in Lebanon for decades before withdrawing its forces in 2005. Israeli officials quoted in the report voiced deep concern over the prospect of Syria assuming a greater role in Lebanon. “One such move would be like throwing a match into a powder keg,” one official said.

The concern, according to the source, extends beyond al-Sharaa himself and includes the influence of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan over Syria.

The Syrian regime has been working to strengthen its presence along border regions that have historically served as weapons-smuggling corridors and is exploring ways to deepen its ties with key power centers inside Lebanon.

In an interview with Fox News last week, Trump expressed frustration with Israel’s inability to neutralize Hezbollah. He said he is considering giving Syria a more prominent role in addressing the Hezbollah challenge and voiced confidence in al-Sharaa’s ability to effectively deal with the terror group.

Al-Sharaa, however, dismissed the idea of Syria entering a military conflict with Hezbollah.

Speaking to a Gulf media outlet, the Syrian president said Syria could help facilitate political solutions, but stressed that “this does not mean war.” He added that any Syrian involvement would take place in coordination with the Lebanese government.

(YWN Israel Desk—Jerusalem)