Syria uncovers cross-border tunnel network linked to Hezbollah

Syrian forces have reinforced their border with Lebanon and uncovered a network of tunnels allegedly used by Hezbollah to smuggle weapons and drugs, as Damascus seeks to avoid being drawn into the widening regional conflict, reports Al-Monitor with AFP on April 2nd.

Troops deployed in the mountainous Qusayr region have been seen operating alongside armoured vehicles and heavy equipment, with bulldozers constructing earthen barriers near suspected tunnel sites.

Syrian officials say the tunnels, some equipped with electrical wiring and ventilation systems, stretch across the border and were used for illicit cross-border activity.

Authorities reported discovering multiple tunnels in recent weeks, including one hidden beneath a residential building.

A Syrian border official said the network was identified during intensified patrols aimed at tightening border control and curbing smuggling operations.

The developments come as fighting intensifies in neighbouring Lebanon between Hezbollah and Israel, raising fears of a broader regional escalation.

Israel has repeatedly targeted border crossings, saying the strikes are intended to block weapons supplies to the Iranian-backed militant group; damage from such attacks was visible at some tunnel sites.

Since the fall of former president Bashar al-Assad, who was ousted in late 2024, Syria’s new leadership, led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, has moved to cut off Hezbollah’s supply routes and strengthen coordination with Lebanese authorities.

Both governments have emphasised the need to secure their shared border and prevent instability from spilling over.

However, despite mounting pressure, Syrian officials have stressed they will not enter the conflict militarily.

A military source said the army’s role is limited to border security, while President al-Sharaa reiterated that Syria would remain neutral unless directly attacked.

Syria’s position reflects both caution and experience. After more than a decade of war and a long, complex history of involvement in Lebanon, Damascus appears determined to avoid another costly entanglement, even as tensions continue to rise along its borders.

Al-Monitor with AFP, Maghrebi.org