The Lebanese army secured the border with Syria as tensions escalated due to armed clashes related to smuggling disputes. Operations in Hawsh Al-Sayyid Ali followed communications between Lebanese and Syrian officials, leading to a ceasefire agreement. President Aoun emphasized the importance of halting aggression and maintaining stability along the eastern border. Hezbollah denied involvement in the clashes, while families began returning home after the military’s intervention.
Iran recently celebrated an ancient fire festival, marking the countdown to the Persian New Year. Concurrently, the Lebanese army initiated operations to secure the border with Syria, addressing illegal crossings and escalating tensions that arose from disputes among smugglers. These developments follow dialogues between Syria and Lebanon aimed at preventing armed confrontations that had intensified since the previous Sunday.
On Wednesday, the Lebanese army made significant advancements into the town of Hawsh Al-Sayyid Ali, reaching its administrative borders as recognized by official Lebanese state maps. This area is uniquely divided, with portions lying within Syrian territory inhabited by Lebanese citizens. The need for military intervention arose due to armed clashes, including the deaths of three Syrian gunmen which prompted broader conflict between Lebanese tribes and the new Syrian authorities.
Casualties from the skirmishes have been reported, with the Lebanese Ministry of Health confirming seven Lebanese fatalities and over fifty injuries. Moreover, extensive property damage resulted from the fighting, particularly due to exchanges of gunfire between Syrian forces and local tribes. Following these incidents, negotiations regarding deployment zones between the two nations contributed to delays in the Lebanese army’s mission, although a convoy eventually reached the town.
Despite initial protests related to local clans’ arms confiscation, operations were resumed and the army began to implement security measures to maintain stability along the border. The Lebanese army has undertaken efforts to close illegal passageways linking Lebanon and Syria, specifically targeting known crossings contributing to smuggling activities,
President Joseph Aoun has been actively monitoring security along the northeastern border, maintaining communication with army chief Gen. Rodolphe Haikal. Aoun has emphasized the necessity of ensuring a ceasefire and controlling border activities, stressing that military responses to gunfire sources will not be tolerated. Dialogue continued between Lebanese and Syrian officials, resulting in a ceasefire agreement facilitated by their respective defense ministers.
Notably, Syrian media claimed the seizure of a Hezbollah operational facility in Hawsh Al-Sayyid Ali, containing an extensive cache of weapons and other illicit materials. Following the return of stability, displaced families from the area began preparations to return to their residences, while Hezbollah has dismissed any claims of involvement in the border clashes.
The unfolding of events along the Lebanese-Syrian border reveals significant tensions resulting from illegal crossings and armed confrontations. The Lebanese army’s recent operations highlight the necessity for improved security measures and coordination between Lebanon and Syria. The establishment of a ceasefire and ongoing dialogues signify a step toward restoring stability in the region and addressing the complexities of border management. The swift responses from leaders and military forces underscore the critical nature of controlling violence and smuggling in the volatile border area.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
