Al-Sheibani’s “Historic” Visit to Beirut: Syria and Lebanon Seek to Overcome Past Obstacles

Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Sheibani arrived in Beirut on a visit described as “historic,” marking the first visit by a Syrian official since the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in December 2024. Both sides emphasized their desire to open a new chapter in bilateral relations after years of tension.

The visit comes after three decades of Syrian political dominance in Lebanon, which included multiple interventions, accusations against Syria for assassinating Lebanese officials, influencing Lebanese decision-making, and the deployment of Syrian military forces on Lebanese soil.

In remarks to journalists following his meeting with his Lebanese counterpart, Yusuf Raji, Al-Sheibani said the visit “reflects Syria’s new approach towards Lebanon,” affirming his country’s respect for “Lebanon’s sovereignty” and the principle of “non-interference in its internal affairs.” He added, “We want to overcome the obstacles of the past with Lebanon.”

For his part, Lebanese Foreign Minister Yusuf Raji confirmed the two countries’ determination to work together toward a “new path” in bilateral relations.

Al-Sheibani is accompanied by an official delegation including Justice Minister Mazhar Al-Wais. Among the key issues under discussion is the case of Syrian detainees held in Lebanon, with Damascus demanding their return.

The list of Syrian detainees in Lebanon includes hundreds of individuals held on charges related to “terrorism,” affiliation with extremist groups, and armed factions. Some have been referred to military courts, while others are accused of carrying out attacks against the Lebanese army during the Syrian conflict that erupted after the Syrian authorities suppressed popular protests in 2011.