Lebanon PM Najib Mikati to Visit Syria Amid Heightening Tensions
Lebanon’s PM Najib Mikati is set to visit Syria shortly, following heightened border tensions due to new entry restrictions imposed by Syria on Lebanese nationals and a recent skirmish injuring five Lebanese soldiers. The Lebanese army has also commenced deployments in southern towns amidst Israel’s phased withdrawal under a ceasefire agreement. These events underscore the intricate diplomatic and military challenges facing Lebanon and its dealings with Syria in a context of ongoing regional instability.
Lebanon’s Prime Minister Najib Mikati is scheduled to visit Damascus shortly, marking the first diplomatic engagement since Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) assumed control in Syria. This announcement comes amidst heightened tensions following Syria’s implementation of stricter entry requirements for Lebanese citizens and a recent skirmish along the border, where five Lebanese soldiers sustained injuries from unidentified Syrian militants. Ziad Makary, Lebanon’s Information Minister, confirmed Mikati’s impending visit to Syria after a cabinet session, indicating a focus on bilateral relations alongside recent border incidents.
The new entry regulations mandate Lebanese nationals to acquire a visa or have a Syrian spouse or child to gain entry, deviating from previous allowances where entry was granted based solely on a passport or ID card. These changes reflect the escalating border tensions and the historical complexities of Lebanese-Syrian relations, particularly given Hezbollah’s military backing of the Assad regime during the Syrian civil war. Mikati’s office noted his recent conversation with Syria’s de facto leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, discussing these critical issues and addressing prior clashes.
In tandem with these developments, the Lebanese army has commenced deeper deployments in southern Lebanon, responding to the ongoing phased withdrawal of Israeli troops following a ceasefire brokered by the United States and France last November. This strategic military movement aims to reinforce security along the border, particularly in coastal towns such as Al-Naqoura and Alma al-Shaab. The Lebanese armed forces, coordinating with the United Nations peacekeeping force (UNIFIL), are tasked with ensuring that Hezbollah does not re-establish its military capabilities in the region following the hostilities that resulted in severe humanitarian consequences for the Lebanese populace.
Overall, Prime Minister Mikati’s forthcoming visit to Syria underscores the persistent diplomatic manoeuvres amidst a backdrop of enhanced border controls and military repositioning, reflecting the delicate geopolitical landscape in the region.
The political and military dynamics between Lebanon and Syria have long been fraught with complexity, characterized by historical alliances and conflicts. In recent months, Lebanon has seen increasing tension along its borders, exacerbated by internal divisions regarding relationships with Damascus, particularly surrounding the influence of Hezbollah in the Syrian civil war. The recent ascendance of Ahmed al-Sharaa in Syria signifies a potential recalibration of diplomatic efforts, as both nations navigate the consequences of regional instability. The ceasefire agreement established in November 2023 also reflects the ongoing ramifications of conflict in the area, prompting strategic recalibrations by both Lebanese and Israeli forces. The Lebanese military’s increased presence aims to secure stability while responding to recent clashes that have further strained relations.
In conclusion, the upcoming visit of Lebanon’s Prime Minister Najib Mikati to Syria represents an essential attempt to address strained bilateral relations amid increasing border tensions and military skirmishes. Simultaneously, the Lebanese army’s deployment reflects strategic responses to Israeli troop withdrawals and commitments made under a fledgling ceasefire agreement, highlighting the complex interdependencies that shape the region’s security dynamics. As these developments unfold, the implications for both Lebanon and Syria will be significant, necessitating careful diplomatic engagement and management of burgeoning security challenges.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
