The Lebanese army has secured Hawsh Al-Sayyid Ali amid escalating border tensions with Syria. Recent clashes resulted from smuggling disputes and led to casualties on both sides. As part of stabilizing actions, illegal crossings are being closed, and communication between Lebanon and Syria has intensified to broker a ceasefire.
As tensions rise along the Lebanon-Syria border, the Lebanese army has moved into the town of Hawsh Al-Sayyid Ali. This town’s administrative border, as defined by official maps, is shared between Lebanon and Syria, with part of it being in Syrian territory. Recent armed clashes have stemmed from disputes among smugglers, increasing instability in the area.
The conflict escalated following the killings of three Syrian gunmen, leading to confrontations between armed factions and local Lebanese tribes. Clashes have resulted in the deaths of seven Lebanese citizens and injuries to 52 others, alongside considerable property damage from shelling.
In response to the violence, Lebanese military forces, supported by ongoing negotiations with Syria, have initiated the closure of several illegal border crossings. Key crossings including Al-Matlaba, Al-Fatha, Al-Maarawiya, and Shahit Al-Hujairi have been shut down to prevent smuggling and to stabilize the border region. The Lebanese army’s deployment faced initial protest but has since progressed with enhanced security measures.
Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun has been closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the need for a ceasefire and control over border activities. Communication between Lebanese and Syrian officials has intensified, leading to a ceasefire agreement facilitated by both defense ministries. Following these developments, families displaced by the conflict are beginning to return home, though Hezbollah has denied any involvement in recent clashes.
The situation at the Lebanon-Syria border remains tense due to recent armed clashes exacerbated by smuggling disputes. The Lebanese army’s deployment aims to restore stability and close illegal crossings, an effort supported by communication between Lebanon and Syria. Despite violence resulting in casualties and property damage, efforts for diplomatic resolution and community recovery are now underway.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
