Lebanese MP Haydar Nasr warns of a potential refugee crisis in Lebanon resulting from ongoing massacres of the Alawite community in Syria. He calls for international intervention and emphasizes the need for Lebanon to support its military and governmental reforms to address the escalating humanitarian and security challenges.
Lebanese MP Haydar Nasr emphasizes the urgent need for international intervention to halt the killings of the Alawite minority in Syria, warning that Lebanon may face a significant refugee crisis should the massacres persist. As an Alawite from Tripoli, Mr. Nasr has coordinated with the Lebanese army to stabilize northern Lebanon and address the escalating violence against Alawites in neighboring Syria.
A recent surge of violence has displaced at least 10,000 Alawite individuals into Lebanon due to targeted killings by factions aligned with the new Syrian government, which has prompted Mr. Nasr to highlight the plight of Alawites under both the Assad regime and the current regime. He stated that their community suffered greatly during 14 years of conflict and continues to be unfairly punished for their past support of Bashar Al Assad, who recently fled the country following his ousting.
The UN has reported that recent assaults targeting civilians, particularly in coastal areas with significant Alawite populations, appear to be sectarian in nature. Mr. Nasr criticized the violence and called for the international community, including the United States and European nations, to intervene decisively to protect the Alawite community and prevent further atrocities.
He also expressed concern over the potential for a new influx of refugees to exacerbate existing social tensions in Lebanon, especially in Tripoli, where clashes have historically occurred between Alawite and Sunni militias. As Lebanon copes with ongoing economic difficulties, exacerbated by the influx of Syrian refugees and the devastation following the 2020 Beirut port explosion, the need for constructive regional dialogue and intervention is paramount to ensure stability.
Mr. Nasr advocates for increased support to the Lebanese army and effective governance to stabilize both northern Lebanon and the broader region while warning that neglecting the challenges faced by marginalized communities could trigger further unrest. The Lebanese government has recognized the necessity to revitalize military and governmental structures to better manage this humanitarian and security crisis.
In summary, Lebanese MP Haydar Nasr calls for immediate international action to protect the Alawite community in Syria from ongoing violence, noting the potential for an escalating refugee situation impacting Lebanon. He highlights the need for cooperation between communities in Lebanon, alongside urgent support and reform within the Lebanese military and government. The recommendations suggest that addressing socio-economic disparities is critical for lasting peace and stability in the region.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
