Escalating Border Crisis: Looting and Destruction in Lebanon’s Hawsh al-Sayyid Ali
Hawsh al-Sayyid Ali faces destruction and fear following Syrian troop withdrawal. Approximately 200 homes and 20 shops were destroyed by fire, with reports of looting. The area is deemed unsafe as the Lebanese army seeks to maintain order while Hezbollah encourages local support. Meanwhile, tensions flare following a funeral incident, underscoring ongoing instability.
Residents of Hawsh al-Sayyid Ali are grappling with the aftermath of destruction following the withdrawal of Syrian forces and the establishment of a ceasefire. Upon inspection, locals discovered that approximately 200 houses and over 20 shops were destroyed by fire. Reports indicate that gunmen from Syria vandalized and looted properties, with one individual apprehended during an attempted theft.
The northern part of Hawsh al-Sayyid Ali remains deemed unsafe for habitation, prompting those who returned merely to inspect their properties before departing once more. The Lebanese army has dispatched troops to the area to secure the entrance and conduct patrols to uphold security and protect residents’ properties. Meanwhile, Hezbollah has called on local tribal communities to support, rather than distrust, the army’s efforts.
Despite Hezbollah’s efforts to reduce tensions, the situation along Lebanon’s northeastern border continues to be precarious. During the funeral for Mahdi al-Hajj Hassan, who was killed after being taken captive during the Syrian incursion, mourners fired shots into the air, prompting a response from Syrian forces. This exchange of gunfire necessitated intervention by the Lebanese army to restore order amid escalating tensions.
The crisis in Hawsh al-Sayyid Ali reveals the challenges faced by residents in the wake of violence and looting following the Syrian incursion. Despite the presence of the Lebanese army and efforts by Hezbollah to stabilize the situation, the communities remain on edge as safety is not assured. The continuing volatility along the northeastern border highlights the need for effective conflict resolution and community support.
Original Source: www.lbcgroup.tv
