Lebanon’s President Aoun has ordered troop retaliation against Syria following deadly border clashes involving Hezbollah. The violence erupted after accusations against Hezbollah led to the abduction and killing of Syrian soldiers, prompting military responses and diplomatic discussions to prevent further escalation.
On Monday, Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun ordered military retaliation against gunfire originating from Syria, following a deadly overnight escalation along the border. This incident escalated after Syria’s interim government accused Hezbollah militants of crossing the border, abducting and killing three Syrian soldiers on Lebanese territory, marking a significant spike in cross-border hostilities since the fall of Bashar Assad in December.
Reports from a Syrian news channel indicated that the Syrian army responded by shelling Hezbollah positions, purportedly in response to the death of Syrian soldiers. However, Hezbollah denied any role in the incidents. Information Minister Paul Morkos stated during a Cabinet meeting that the deceased were considered smugglers, noting that the clashes resulted in a child fatality and multiple injuries on the Lebanese side.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported casualties on both sides, including five Syrian soldiers during the clashes. Emergencies prompted many families to flee towards Hermel in Lebanon. The Lebanese government’s concern over the ongoing violence was expressed by President Aoun, who stated, “What is happening along the eastern and northeastern border cannot continue and we will not accept that it continues.” He directed the Lebanese army to respond to the source of fire and emphasized the need for diplomatic resolution through the foreign minister’s contacts in Brussels.
Tensions intensified as violence surged between the Syrian military and pro-Assad Lebanese Shiite clans. Reports suggest these clans were involved in the original abductions that initiated the recent cross-border altercations. Communication channels between Lebanese and Syrian military forces have been established to avert further hostilities.
Although there were indications of low-level fighting following an assault on a Syrian military vehicle, the exact casualty figures remain unclear. Additionally, an artillery shell from the Lebanese side injured four Syrian journalists with the military. Hezbollah legislator Hussein Haj Hassan claimed that Syrian fighters invaded Lebanese territory, targeting border towns in his constituency. Lebanon is now seeking international aid to enhance its military capabilities as it patrols its borders with Syria and Israel.
In summary, Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun has ordered military retaliation after a deadly escalation with Syria, rooted in accusations against Hezbollah. Both nations face increased tensions and violence along the border, leading to casualties among both Lebanese and Syrian forces. The Lebanese government is addressing these hostilities through military action and diplomatic efforts while seeking international support for border security enhancements.
Original Source: www.stripes.com
