Syria’s embassy in Lebanon suspended services following the arrest of Assad’s relatives and the handover of former Syrian army officers by Lebanese authorities to HTS. Tensions persist, with ongoing protests for women’s rights and international discussions about Syria’s political future.
The Syrian embassy in Beirut has announced the suspension of its consular services, attributed to the recent arrest of relatives of former President Bashar Assad and the handover of former Syrian military officers by Lebanese authorities. Lebanese officials reported that dozens of Syrians, including deposed officers under Assad’s regime, were caught illegally entering Lebanon and subsequently handed over to the new Syrian authorities, now under the control of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). The embassy’s decision to suspend services has raised concerns regarding the legitimacy of documents issued by the embassy, particularly after two individuals linked to Assad were arrested with suspected forged passports.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights stated that approximately 70 Syrians had been transferred by Lebanese security officials to HTS, further indicating a shift in local authority dynamics. Regional nations, such as Libya and Bahrain, are re-engaging with Syria following these developments, signaling a potential normalization of relations with the Syrian government.
Under HTS’s leadership, there have been reported efforts to quell fears that the new regime would impose strict Islamic governance. Despite this, tensions have persisted, particularly in clashes involving pro-Assad forces and HTS, as well as between Turkish-backed groups and Kurdish forces in northeastern Syria. The changing political landscape in Syria has implications for international relations, as evident from discussions between U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan regarding stability in the region.
Furthermore, the country is facing protests advocating for women’s rights in light of the new regime, which has prompted activists to demand representation in the constitution and government. A participant in a recent demonstration expressed dire concerns, stating that the emerging leadership is perceived as more oppressive compared to the previous regime, particularly regarding gender equality.
The situation in Syria remains complex, marked by ongoing conflict and shifting power dynamics. The new regime’s authority, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), follows years of civil unrest and the regime of Bashar Assad. The recent handover of former military officers and the arrest of Assad’s relatives highlight tensions between Syrian authorities and groups attempting to establish control in the region. Additionally, regional countries are beginning to navigate relations with the new leadership, while internal social movements, particularly from Kurdish women, illustrate a struggle for progress amid political change.
The suspension of consular services by Syria’s embassy in Lebanon reflects deeper political and social tensions within and outside the country. The handover of Syrian nationals, including former army officers, marks a significant shift in control under HTS, indicating evolving geopolitical alliances. As regional countries seek to establish ties, the demands for women’s rights emphasize the critical need for inclusive governance in shaping Syria’s future political landscape.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
