Lebanon’s president has ordered military retaliation for gunfire from Syria, escalating border tensions. This follows accusations against Hezbollah for the abduction and killing of Syrian soldiers, with both sides reporting casualties. Lebanon seeks international support to strengthen its military presence amid the conflict.
On Monday, Lebanon’s president mandated military retaliation following gunfire from Syria, which signifies rising tensions along the border. This escalation comes as conflict intensifies between the Syrian military and armed Lebanese Shiite clans associated with the ousted Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. The violence was reignited when Syria’s interim government accused Hezbollah militants of crossing into Syria, leading to the abduction and killing of three Syrian soldiers on Lebanese territory.
This conflict marks the most significant cross-border fighting since the fall of Bashar al-Assad in December, with Syria’s official outlets claiming that the army shelled Hezbollah positions, which resulted in fatalities. Contrarily, Hezbollah has denied any involvement in the incidents. Lebanon’s Information Minister stated that those killed were not soldiers but smugglers. Additionally, there were civilian casualties on the Lebanese side, including a child.
Furthermore, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported five fatalities among Syrian soldiers during the clashes. The violence has prompted Lebanon’s military to increase troop deployment in the border area, engaging with local communities impacted by the clashes. The Lebanese government aims to resolve the situation through diplomatic channels, and the foreign minister has been tasked with negotiating with Syrian officials.
Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun expressed concerns over the ongoing situation, emphasizing the need for immediate de-escalation and communicating orders to the Lebanese army to take action against the sources of fire. Both Lebanese and Syrian military forces have stated that they are working to facilitate communication in order to alleviate tensions. Notably, incidents of low-level confrontations have continued, as evidenced by the reported attacks on Syrian military vehicles.
Efforts to seek international support for enhancing Lebanon’s military capabilities are ongoing, particularly as it maneuvers to strengthen its borders amidst the turmoil with Syria and Israel.
In conclusion, Lebanon’s current military stance indicates a serious escalation in cross-border tensions with Syria. The ongoing violence stems from accusations involving Hezbollah and growing friction along the border regions. Efforts are being made to engage in diplomatic negotiations to prevent further conflict, while international support is sought to bolster Lebanon’s military presence in these vulnerable areas.
Original Source: www.france24.com
