Lebanon and Syria’s defense ministers met in Jeddah to discuss border security following recent clashes. A ceasefire was agreed upon, along with plans for coordination and legal committees to enhance security. Despite these measures, unresolved issues pose risks for future conflicts, reflecting the challenging relationship between the two countries.
The defense ministers of Lebanon and Syria convened in Jeddah to address border security concerns, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency. This meeting, held after recent deadly clashes along the Syrian-Lebanese border, resulted in the signing of a ceasefire agreement aimed at stabilizing the region. Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman hosted Lebanese Minister Michel Menassa and Syrian Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra for discussions on enhancing security cooperation.
During the meeting, both nations agreed to establish legal and specialized committees for border demarcation and to activate coordination mechanisms to tackle security challenges along the border. A follow-up meeting is scheduled to occur in Saudi Arabia soon, reaffirming the kingdom’s commitment to supporting stability in both Lebanon and Syria. The ministers were originally set to meet in Syria, but this was postponed due to upcoming security appointments in Damascus.
Recent tensions have escalated, leading to confrontations that claimed the lives of eight Syrian soldiers and a 15-year-old Lebanese boy, reportedly during a Syrian bombing. Despite the signed ceasefire, unresolved issues persist, and the potential for renewed conflict remains high at the border, highlighted by a diplomatic source. The historically turbulent relationship between Syria and Lebanon has been strained further by these incidents, complicating efforts to improve bilateral ties since the ousting of former President Bashar Al Assad.
The Syrian forces, particularly those aligned with the Hayat Tahrir Al Sham group, have engaged in repeated clashes with Hezbollah, an Iran-backed Lebanese militia, along the border. Syrian authorities remain focused on cracking down on smuggling operations linked to Hezbollah, which is a priority for securing the border and addressing longstanding security concerns.
In conclusion, the meeting between the defense ministers of Lebanon and Syria in Jeddah marks a crucial step towards addressing border security amidst rising tensions. The signing of a ceasefire agreement is significant, albeit unresolved issues continue to threaten stability. Both nations seek to enhance their cooperation, but the complex historical dynamics and recent conflicts along the border necessitate ongoing vigilance and dialogue.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
