France has offered to mediate to resolve the recent clashes on the Syrian-Lebanese border. President Macron reached out to Lebanese leaders and invited Syrian transitional President Sharaa for discussions. The violence, sparked by military movements, has resulted in casualties and ongoing security concerns in the region.
France has proposed mediation efforts to address the ongoing clashes on the Syrian-Lebanese border. President Emmanuel Macron expressed France’s commitment to stabilize the region during separate communications with Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam and President Joseph Aoun, as confirmed by the Elysee. Additionally, Macron invited Syrian transitional President Ahmad Sharaa, previously known as Abu Mohammad al-Julani, to visit France.
The recent clashes began on February 6 in Hawik, a town straddling the Lebanon-Syria border known for its smuggling activities. The instability intensified after the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham-led Military Operations Department established checkpoints, resulting in violent confrontations with Lebanese tribesmen. The Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) requested the tribes to withdraw as they enforced security measures along the border.
The LAF reported ongoing clashes, stating that their military units would respond appropriately to any fire originating from Syrian territory targeting Lebanon. This includes implementing additional security protocols, such as observation points and patrols. The area has seen a significant rise in violence, leading to fatalities and injuries on both sides and exchanges of captives between the tribes and HTS militants.
Recent developments included the downing of a drone by Lebanese tribes and continuous shelling from Syria. Further complicating the situation, Israeli warplanes conducted airstrikes near Hermel, targeting what they alleged was an underground tunnel utilized by Hezbollah for weapon transfers from Syria to Lebanon.
In summary, France aims to mediate ongoing tensions between Lebanon and Syria amid clashes that have resulted in casualties and unrest. The situation escalated due to military actions from both sides, prompting the LAF to enhance security measures. The possibility of further international intervention remains unclear, but the continued violence poses a significant threat to regional stability.
Original Source: thecradle.co
