Renewed clashes between Syrian troops and Lebanese army forces occurred in Northeast Lebanon following accusations from Syria against Hezbollah. Tensions escalated after the deaths of three Syrian soldiers, prompting retaliatory shelling by Syrian forces. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun ordered a military response to protect border security. Both countries have seen increased military reinforcements amidst the rising conflict.
Northeast Lebanon has witnessed renewed clashes as Syrian troops engaged in gunfire with Lebanese soldiers and armed groups. The confrontations follow increased tensions along the border, arising from the upheaval in Syria that saw Islamist rebels removing Bashar al-Assad from power, undermining Hezbollah’s influence.
Accusations emerged late on Sunday, as Syria’s defense ministry alleged that Hezbollah crossed the border, abducting and killing three members of the newly formed Syrian army. Hezbollah refuted these claims, while a Lebanese security source asserted that the Syrian soldiers had ventured into Lebanese territory first, leading to their deaths at the hands of local armed tribesmen.
In reaction to these events, Syrian forces retaliated by shelling Lebanese border towns, which prompted residents, particularly from Al-Qasr, to flee away from the bombardment. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun instructed the army to respond to any fire originating from Syrian territory, emphasizing the state’s resolve to maintain peace along the border.
The Lebanese army confirmed the return of the deceased Syrian soldiers’ bodies to their authorities and stated its response to Syrian fire. Furthermore, Syrian forces reinforced their military presence along the border by sending additional troops and armored vehicles, indicating escalating tensions in the region. Maher Ziwani, a commander in the Syrian army, noted that significant military reinforcements were deployed to secure the border against potential breaches.
The recent skirmishes between Syrian troops and the Lebanese army underscore the escalating tension along their shared border, exacerbated by political upheavals in Syria. The exchange of fire has raised concerns over regional stability, prompting military reinforcements from both sides. The humanitarian impact on local populations continues to be significant as residents in border towns seek safety amidst the conflict.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
