Lebanon’s President Aoun has directed military action in response to gunfire from Syria after deadly clashes. The violence follows accusations against Hezbollah for crossing into Syria and killing Syrian soldiers. As tensions escalate, internal and external communication channels are being established to manage the conflict, while Lebanon seeks international military support.
Lebanon’s President, Joseph Aoun, has instructed the Lebanese army to respond to gunfire emanating from Syria following the latest violent incident at the border. The confrontation escalated after Syria’s interim government accused Lebanese Hezbollah fighters of crossing into Syria, where they abducted and killed three Syrian soldiers on Lebanese territory. This marks the most severe cross-border fighting since the fall of former Syrian President Bashar Assad in December.
Reports indicate that the Syrian army retaliated by shelling Hezbollah positions, resulting in further casualties among Syrian soldiers. Concurrently, internal Lebanese sources indicated that the deceased Syrian individuals were smugglers, while also confirming the death of a child and injuries to six others on the Lebanese side. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that five Syrian soldiers lost their lives during the Monday clashes.
In light of the violence, President Aoun emphasized the need to stop the ongoing hostilities and stated, “What is happening along the eastern and northeastern border cannot continue and we will not accept that it continues.” He also urged the foreign minister to engage with Syrian officials to de-escalate the situation. Violent interactions have surged between the Syrian military and Lebanese Shiite clans allied with the former Assad regime, particularly around Lebanon’s Al-Qasr village.
Amidst the tensions, both the Lebanese and Syrian military forces have initiated communication efforts to mitigate conflicts. The Lebanese military has also reported the return of the bodies of the three Syrian fatalities. Reports suggest ongoing low-level skirmishes, with the recent violence inciting fears of a wider conflict. Senior Hezbollah member Hussein Haj Hassan accused Syrian combatants of crossing into Lebanese territories and attacking border settlements.
Lastly, Lebanon is actively seeking international assistance to strengthen its military, positioning troops along its vulnerable borders with Syria and Israel. U.N. envoy Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert has warned the Security Council that the persistent presence of Israeli forces could result in significant regional instability.
In conclusion, the situation along the Lebanon-Syria border is increasingly volatile, marked by cross-border hostilities and escalating military responses. President Aoun’s orders to retaliate against Syrian gunfire highlight Lebanon’s determination to respond to perceived threats. Both nations are exploring communication channels to ease tensions, while the involvement of international support remains critical for Lebanon’s military to enhance border security amidst this precarious period.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
