The Lebanese army has clashed with Syrian troops along the eastern border, following accusations against Hezbollah of killing Syrian security forces. Conflicting accounts of the incident have emerged, with Hezbollah denying involvement, and Syrian forces retaliating by shelling Lebanese towns. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has ordered the military to respond to ongoing threats in the area, which continues to be marked by intermittent conflict since the fall of Assad.
The Lebanese army has recently engaged in confrontations with Syrian troops along Lebanon’s eastern border, marking a significant escalation that began on Sunday night. The clashes stem from accusations by the Syrian government, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, claiming that the Lebanese group Hezbollah was responsible for the abduction and death of three Syrian security personnel.
Conflicting reports have emerged regarding the events on that evening. Hezbollah has refuted any involvement in these incidents, while a Lebanese security source indicated that three Syrian soldiers had intruded into Lebanese territory, where they were subsequently killed by local armed groups, who suspected an attack on their town. In response, Syrian forces launched artillery strikes on Lebanese territories, prompting some local residents to evacuate.
The Lebanese military has confirmed it returned the remains of the Syrian soldiers and has exchanged gunfire with Syrian forces. Moreover, a substantial number of Lebanese troops have been deployed to the border area to address the escalating tensions. President Joseph Aoun emphasized, “What is happening on the eastern and northeastern borders cannot continue, and we will not accept its continuation,” directing the army to retaliate against the sources of fire.
Heavy fighting has since ensued near Hosh al-Sayyed Ali in northeastern Lebanon, as the border region remains a volatile area, characterized by sporadic clashes since the ousting of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Despite intentions expressed by both President Aoun and Syrian interim president Ahmed al-Shara to fortify the bilateral relationship, the ongoing clashes and the new Syrian regime’s adversarial stance towards Hezbollah present formidable hurdles to stability.
The recent clashes between the Lebanese army and Syrian forces highlight the volatile nature of Lebanon’s eastern border, exacerbated by political tensions and historical hostilities. The distinct narratives surrounding the incidents, alongside callous military responses, underscore the fragile state of relations between Lebanon and Syria. Both nations must navigate this tumultuous period, as their leaders express intentions to improve ties amidst growing challenges.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
