Lebanon’s Military Ordered to Retaliate Amid Escalating Border Tensions with Syria
Lebanon’s President has mandated military retaliation following gunfire from Syria, amid escalating border tensions linked to Hezbollah’s actions. The conflict represents the most severe fighting since Assad’s ousting, with reports of casualties on both sides. Efforts for communication between the Lebanese and Syrian military aim to alleviate further violence while Lebanon seeks international military support.
On Monday, the President of Lebanon ordered military forces to retaliate against gunfire from Syria, as tensions escalated along the border. This increase in violence involves clashes between the Syrian military and armed Lebanese Shiite clans affiliated with the ousted Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad. The situation intensified following an incident where Lebanon’s Hezbollah allegedly abducted and killed three Syrian soldiers on Lebanese territory.
The conflict marks the most significant border fighting since Bashar Assad was removed from power in December. Reports indicate that after accusations against Hezbollah, the Syrian army shelled their positions, killing several Syrian soldiers, a claim denied by Hezbollah. Information Minister Paul Morkos stated that the individuals killed were engaged in smuggling activities, with civilian casualties reported, including one child and several injuries.
Tensions had been escalating due to increased military activity near the Lebanese town of Hermel, prompting President Joseph Aoun to affirm that the situation “cannot continue” and instructed the Lebanese army to respond to the source of the fire. He additionally requested that Lebanon’s foreign minister, currently in Brussels, engage Syrian officials to address the problem and prevent further escalation.
Both Lebanese and Syrian militaries have reportedly established communication channels to manage tensions. As part of de-escalation efforts, Lebanon returned the bodies of the three Syrian soldiers, while reports of clashes and low-level fighting emerged, including an incident where Syrian journalists were injured by artillery fired from Lebanon.
Hezbollah legislator Hussein Haj Hassan claimed that armed individuals from the Syrian side had attacked villages within Lebanon. As the violence persists, Lebanon is seeking international assistance to enhance military funding for border security, particularly along vulnerable regions adjoining Syria and Israel.
In summary, the border tensions between Lebanon and Syria have escalated significantly following a series of violent confrontations. Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun has ordered military retaliation against Syrian fire and called for diplomatic resolutions to mitigate conflict. Both nations are striving for communication to ease tensions, while Lebanon seeks international support to bolster its military presence and security in the region.
Original Source: www.france24.com
