Lebanon’s government has responded to escalating border tensions with Syria, ordering military retaliation after cross-border shootings and conflicts involving Hezbollah. The violence erupted following alleged abductions and killings attributed to Lebanese armed groups. Efforts to enhance military presence and communication with Syria aim to mitigate further escalation, while Lebanon seeks international military support.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has ordered military retaliation against recent gunfire originating from Syria, following a significant increase in border tensions. This escalation stems from allegations that members of Hezbollah crossed into Syria, leading to the abduction and killing of three Syrian soldiers on Lebanese territory, marking the most severe cross-border violence since the ouster of Bashar al-Assad.
Clashes intensified as the Syrian military accused Hezbollah of being involved in the recent violence, with shelling reported on Hezbollah positions. Hezbollah refuted these claims, asserting they had no part in the incidents. Information Minister Paul Morkos clarified that the individuals killed were believed to be smugglers, further complicating the narrative surrounding the conflict.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported five Syrian military fatalities amid the ongoing clashes, while Lebanese news sources indicated heightened conflict near the town of Hermel. President Aoun emphasized the necessity of ending the cross-border assaults and has requested the intervention of Lebanon’s foreign minister to engage with Syrian officials to prevent further escalation.
Recent violence has involved armed Lebanese Shiite clans, closely aligned with the former Assad regime, hinting at deeper internal conflicts. Communications between Lebanese and Syrian military leaders have been established, with efforts to alleviate tensions underscored by troop deployments in the region.
In the early hours Monday, there were reports of low-level skirmishes and an artillery attack which harmed four Syrian journalists. Additionally, Hezbollah’s Hussein Haj Hassan accused Syrian fighters of carrying out attacks on Lebanese border villages, reflecting the complexities of the ongoing conflict. Lebanon is actively pursuing international support to enhance military funding amid these tensions with Syria.
In summary, Lebanon’s response to the escalating tensions with Syria underscores the fragile state of peace along the border. The conflict is fueled by allegations against Hezbollah, ongoing violence, and the need for international support for Lebanon’s military. Efforts to communicate and de-escalate the situation are underway, yet the potential for further conflict remains high due to historical grievances and regional complexities.
Original Source: www.france24.com
