Lebanese Army Secures Border Amid Tensions with Syria
The Lebanese army’s recent deployment to Hawsh Al-Sayyid Ali follows armed clashes near the Syria-Lebanon border, leading to casualties and property damage. A ceasefire agreement has been reached to address escalating tensions, while illegal border crossings are being closed. Security measures are being implemented to restore calm in the region.
On March 19, 2025, the Lebanese army commenced operations to secure the border with Syria, specifically entering the town of Hawsh Al-Sayyid Ali. This area is delineated in Lebanese maps, revealing a division between Lebanese and Syrian territories inhabited mainly by Lebanese citizens. This development is a response to recent armed clashes, which were instigated by disputes among smugglers in a region marked by illegal crossings.
These conflicts escalated following the killing of three Syrian gunmen and led to heightened tensions between Lebanese tribes and armed factions under the new Syrian authorities. Official reports indicate that these confrontations have resulted in the deaths of seven Lebanese citizens and injuries to 52 others, along with significant property damage from cross-border shelling.
In reaction to the violence, the Syrian Ministry of Defense also deployed forces into the Lebanese area on Monday night. Negotiations regarding the borders delayed the Lebanese army’s deployment which included a convoy of 60 vehicles. Local protests emerged regarding the army’s actions against clan-held weapons, yet stability was eventually restored to facilitate the mission.
As part of securing the region, the Lebanese army has initiated patrols and closed several illegal crossings between Lebanon and Syria, such as those in Al-Matlaba, Al-Fatha, Al-Maarawiya, and Shahit Al-Hujairi. President Joseph Aoun actively monitored the situation and emphasized the need to consolidate ceasefire efforts and control the borders effectively.
Discussions between the defense ministers of Lebanon and Syria resulted in a ceasefire aimed at curbing further escalation. Concurrently, Syrian media reported the seizure of a Hezbollah operations center in Hawsh Al-Sayyid Ali, where substantial amounts of weapons and illegal substances were found. Following security measures, displaced families from the area began preparations to return home, while Hezbollah denied involvement in the border skirmishes.
The recent deployment of the Lebanese army to Hawsh Al-Sayyid Ali marks a significant step in addressing escalating tensions along the Lebanon-Syria border. The clashes resulted in casualties and damages, prompting diplomatic negotiations between the two nations. The efforts to restore stability emphasize the importance of collaborative security measures and effective border control, as highlighted by ongoing communications between defense officials from both countries.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
