By most measures, Lebanon today stands at a rare political crossroads. The country’s long-paralyzed leadership has finally given way to what appears to be a competent duo: President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam. Nearly five months into their tenure, some observers have described this as Lebanon’s most stable and promising period in two decades. Yet, optimism is tempered by deep concerns. The slow pace of reform, the looming shadow of renewed conflict with Israel, and the still-dominant presence of Hezbollah pose existential questions about Lebanon’s sovereignty and trajectory. In this context, neighboring Syria – long viewed as a failed state – provides an unexpected case study in strategic recalibration.

The Syrian government under President Ahmad Al-Sharaa has taken a route few anticipated. Despite inheriting a fractured, war-torn nation, riddled with militias, foreign influence, and deep economic scars, Al-Sharaa has begun crafting a viable roadmap for Syria’s post-war recovery. In contrast to his predecessors – and to many of Lebanon’s entrenched political elites – he has broken with the traditions of empty rhetoric, militarism, and ideological absolutism.

Al-Sharaa’s most remarkable achievement may not be what he has done, but what he has consciously chosen not to do. He has not made inflammatory speeches about Israel. He has not directed military provocations or responded to Israeli incursions with retaliatory strikes. Nor has he attempted to win populist points through nationalist grandstanding. Instead, he has reframed Syria’s foreign policy around one central aim: national stabilization. That clarity has allowed him to pursue talks with both enemies and allies, unlock frozen diplomatic channels, and court investment even from previously hostile powers.

This approach stands in stark contrast to Lebanon, where public........

© Blitz