Syrian suspect arrested for funding pro-Assad fighters

Tensions between Syria and Lebanon have resurfaced over the fate of senior officers from the Assad era who fled across the border following the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad.

Syrian authorities recently approached Lebanese security officials to gather information on more than 200 former officers allegedly involved in plots against Syria’s new government. The developments follow investigative reports highlighting efforts by exiled Assad allies to finance and organize loyalist networks, revealing Lebanon as a potential hub for cross-border operations.

Syrian delegation visits Beirut

On 18 December 2025, Brigadier Abdul Rahman al-Dabbagh, a senior Syrian security official from Latakia province, met with Lebanon’s intelligence chief Tony Kahwaji and Major General Hassan Choucair, head of the General Security Directorate. Accompanied by former Assad advisor Khaled al-Ahmad, al-Dabbagh presented a list of ex-officers wanted by Syrian authorities and sought details on their whereabouts and legal status.

Syrian sources describe the engagement as a direct security-to-security consultation rather than a formal extradition request. Lebanese officials confirmed receiving the list but emphasized that no senior officers were currently targeted for prosecution, and there was no evidence of organized insurgency within Lebanon.

Investigating exiled networks

The visit coincided with claims regarding rival plots by Rami Makhlouf, Assad’s billionaire cousin, and former military intelligence chief Major General Kamal Hassan. Both are reportedly based in Moscow and have allegedly funneled funds to intermediaries in Lebanon to support pro-Assad militant activity in Syria, particularly in Alawite-majority coastal regions.

The goal appears to be to undermine interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa’s government while preserving influence over the Alawite community, a key pillar of the former regime. These networks aim to create unrest that could weaken Syria’s new leadership, exploiting Lebanon’s proximity and historical connections with ex-Assad loyalists.

Lebanese security response

Lebanese authorities have acted cautiously. Between 3 and 6 January, the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) conducted raids in northern and eastern regions, detaining 38 Syrians on charges ranging from illegal entry to possession of weapons or drugs. While some arrests were linked to the exiled officers’ networks, officials stressed there were no outstanding warrants or Interpol requests specifically targeting the former Assad officials.

In a related development, Lebanese authorities arrested Ahmad Dunia in Jbeil. Dunia is suspected of transferring funds to fighters loyal to Assad, allegedly coordinating with Makhlouf and former Syrian general Suheil al-Hassan. Judicial sources described him as the financial intermediary for pro-Assad operatives in Syria’s coastal region.

Diplomatic and political context

The issue has also attracted political attention. Lebanese officials urged security agencies to investigate threats linked to Assad loyalists and prevent actions that could undermine Syria’s stability. Meanwhile, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun highlighted ongoing coordination with Syrian authorities, confirming raids had not uncovered direct evidence against former officers.

The engagement reflects a delicate balance for Lebanon: respecting its sovereignty while addressing concerns raised by a neighboring state with deep historical and security ties. With Syria continuing to assert influence over Alawite networks and Lebanon remaining a potential staging ground for loyalist activity, both countries face a complex cross-border security challenge.

In conclusion, the situation underscores the enduring influence of Assad-era networks in exile and Lebanon’s strategic role in regional security dynamics. Lebanon remains under pressure to monitor activities on its soil, prevent insurgent plotting and maintain coordination with Syrian authorities. The unfolding developments illustrate how remnants of the former regime continue to shape political and security calculations in both Syria and its neighbor.