Rising Sectarian Tensions in Lebanon as Alawites Flee Violence in Syria

Approximately 10,000 Alawites have fled to Lebanon due to sectarian violence in Syria, raising concerns about renewed conflict in Tripoli. Significant casualties have been reported in Syria, with over 1,300 deaths. The ongoing violence and influx of firearms exacerbate tensions, leading security officials to warn of possible Syrian incursions into Lebanon targeting fleeing Alawites. The situation remains fragile, with local and regional implications for security.

Over the past five days, approximately 10,000 Alawites have fled sectarian violence in Syria, entering Lebanon and settling primarily in northern towns. This influx has raised concerns in Lebanon regarding a potential resurgence of sectarian conflict, particularly in areas such as Bab Al Tebbaneh and Jabal Mohsen in Tripoli, known for previous clashes between Sunni and Alawite factions.

The ongoing violence in Syria has resulted in significant casualties. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reports that over 1,300 individuals have lost their lives since Thursday, with the majority being civilians, particularly Alawites. This violence has intensified amid confrontations between pro-government forces and rebel groups. Following the assassination of two pro-government members, violence on Syria’s coast escalated, prompting the mass exodus.

Lebanese security sources expressed alarm at the potential for serious conflict, stating, “Things could explode in the north at any moment.” Security forces are currently implementing measures around Jabal Mohsen, which is predominantly Alawite, to manage the precarious situation. Tripoli’s demographic composition, with a majority of Sunni Muslims and a minor Alawite population, has historically fueled tensions amid the Syrian conflict.

With the collapse of the Syrian military, a surge of firearms has entered Lebanon, enabling an illicit arms trade. Reports indicate that an AK-47 can be purchased for as little as $25 due to the influx of weaponry from Syria. Despite Lebanon’s closure of land border crossings, many illegal routes remain open, exacerbating the arms situation and the ongoing sectarian tensions.

Warnings have emerged regarding the possibility of pro-government armed groups from Syria launching attacks on Lebanese territory in pursuit of Alawites. Intelligence indicates the gathering of Syrian forces along the border, particularly near the Bekaa Valley. Additionally, violence has erupted along the Lebanon-Syria border due to interference with smuggling operations, which are heavily influenced by Hezbollah.

The new regime in Syria, under Hayat Tahrir Al Sham, has focused on countering Hezbollah-linked smuggling activities, raising concerns about potential military actions against Lebanon. Officials express fears that HTS could infiltrate Lebanon from the Bekaa to exert pressure on Hezbollah, complicating the already fragile security landscape in the region.

The recent influx of 10,000 Alawites from Syria into Lebanon raises significant concerns regarding the resurgence of sectarian conflict in an already volatile region. Reports of escalating violence in Syria underscore the precarious situation, as local security officials warn of potential incursions by Syrian forces pursuing Alawite groups. The ongoing challenges related to arms smuggling and the demographic tensions in Tripoli further complicate Lebanon’s security landscape. The international community must monitor this situation closely, as it risks deepening instability in both Lebanon and Syria.

Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com