The Lebanese Armed Forces have increased their presence in northern Lebanon in response to over 10,000 Syrian Alawites fleeing sectarian violence. Concerns remain about renewed conflict, particularly between Sunni and Alawite factions in Tripoli. Security forces are focused on maintaining calm as officials meet to strategize against further tensions.
In recent developments, the Lebanese Armed Forces have intensified their presence in northern Lebanon to avert potential conflict, as thousands of Syrian Alawites have fled to the region amidst escalating sectarian violence. Reports indicate that over 10,000 individuals from the Alawite minority have crossed into Lebanon, settling primarily in northern locales, which has raised concerns about renewed tensions reminiscent of past conflicts.
The Lebanese authorities are particularly apprehensive about the possibility of sectarian violence spilling over from Syria’s coast, particularly affecting the already unstable districts of Bab Al Tebbaneh and Jabal Mohsen in Tripoli. These areas have experienced numerous deadly clashes between Sunni and Alawite factions over the past 15 years, notably following the violent events that led to approximately 1,380 civilian deaths in Syria’s Mediterranean region.
A security source reported, “Lebanese security forces are heavily deployed in Tripoli and surrounding areas,” with a focus on preventing the outbreak of conflict. Although there is a palpable fear of escalating violence, security forces have thus far succeeded in maintaining calm and averting significant clashes.
Tripoli, with a population of 200,000, is predominantly Sunni Muslim, with approximately 6% to 7% being Alawite and the remainder comprising Christians. The opposing factions have regularly clashed since the onset of the Syrian civil war in March 2011, fueled in part by small radical Sunni groups dispatching fighters to assist Syrian rebels.
Following the collapse of Syria’s army in December, the influx of cheap firearms into Lebanon has raised alarms, with weapons being readily smuggled across the border. As gun dealers exploit the situation, reports suggest that the price of an AK-47 has plummeted to around $25. Although Lebanon has ostensibly restricted land crossings with Syria, illegal passages in the north remain active.
Given the enduring presence of firearms within Lebanon and the ongoing influence of powerful groups like Hezbollah, officials from the Tripoli area are scheduled to convene on Friday to deliberate strategies aimed at mitigating tensions and preventing further conflict.
Recent events have underscored the volatility of the situation in northern Lebanon as Syrian Alawites flee sectarian violence. The Lebanese Armed Forces’ deployment aims to prevent a resurgence of conflict between entrenched Sunni and Alawite factions, particularly in Tripoli. Heightened security measures and discussions among local officials reflect the urgency of addressing these tensions amidst an ongoing influx of weapons and the potential for armed clashes.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
