Lebanese security forces are heavily deployed in northern Lebanon to prevent conflict as over 10,000 Syrian Alawites flee sectarian violence. Tensions are rising in Tripoli’s Bab Al Tebbaneh and Jabal Mohsen districts, due to historical clashes. The influx, along with the flow of firearms, highlights the volatile situation. Local officials are set to meet to strategize solutions to ease tensions.
The Lebanese Armed Forces have intensified their presence in northern Lebanon to avert potential conflicts as thousands of Syrian Alawites escape sectarian violence and cross the border. Over 10,000 Alawites have relocated to northern regions, escalating concerns and fears of renewed clashes, particularly in the Tripoli districts of Bab Al Tebbaneh and Jabal Mohsen, known for their previous violent engagements over the last 15 years.
With an estimated 1,380 Alawite civilians killed amid ongoing violence on Syria’s Mediterranean coast, tensions continue to rise. The latest violence ignited after the death of two pro-government members, emphasizing the dangerous atmosphere. One security source indicated that Lebanese forces are focused on maintaining peace, saying, “There is growing fear that the situation could spiral out of control but security forces have so far managed to maintain calm.”
Tripoli is a diverse city of 200,000, predominantly Sunni Muslims, alongside a smaller Alawite and Christian population. The Bab Al Tebbaneh and Jabal Mohsen neighborhoods represent opposing sides of the Syrian conflict, leading to frequent clashes since the civil war began in 2011. Additionally, radical Sunni groups have assisted rebels in Syria, escalating tensions across the border.
The collapse of the Syrian army has flooded the area with firearms, significantly lowering the price of weapons such as the AK-47 to around $25. Many arms are trafficked illegally, predominantly through northern crossings despite Lebanon’s closure of major land borders to Syrian immigration.
The ruling powers in Lebanon, including the armed group Hezbollah, have long dealt with the prevalence of weapons in the region. To address growing unrest, local officials from Tripoli plan to convene to discuss measures for reducing tensions and preventing further violence.
The Lebanese Armed Forces’ deployment in northern Lebanon is a critical response to the influx of Alawite refugees fleeing violence in Syria. The situation raises fears of renewed sectarian clashes, especially in conflict-prone areas like Tripoli. With the regional arms flow increasing due to Syria’s instability, efforts by local officials to mitigate tensions are crucial in preventing future escalations.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
