Lebanese MP Haydar Nasr has warned of a looming refugee crisis in Lebanon due to the violence against the Alawite community in Syria. Amid ongoing sectarian violence, over 10,000 Alawites have fled to Lebanon recently. Nasr calls for urgent international intervention and highlights the need for socio-economic redevelopment in Lebanon, particularly in Tripoli, to mitigate tensions.
Haydar Nasr, an independent Lebanese Member of Parliament, has warned that the killing of Alawites in Syria may precipitate a significant refugee crisis for Lebanon. He has been working with the Lebanese army to ensure stability in northern Lebanon since September, especially in light of ongoing violence and sectarian tensions driven by the war involving Israel and Hezbollah. The overwhelming Alawite population, approximately four million in Syria, faces systemic threats from aligned Syrian government forces, triggering mass flight into Lebanon.
Mr. Nasr highlighted the tragic fate of the Alawite community, lamenting their suffering under both Bashar Al Assad and current government forces. He expressed grave concerns about the massacres targeting Alawites, which he defined as crimes against the community. He urged international intervention from the United States and European nations to halt the violence. Recently documented attacks have resulted in approximately 961 fatalities, primarily within the Alawite population, thereby amplifying Mr. Nasr’s call for global action.
The new leadership in Syria faces scrutiny, as Mr. Nasr emphasized the necessity for Ahmad Al Shara, the interim President, to investigate attacks against Alawites and acknowledge their suffering publicly. This situation bears the potential for an escalation akin to a holocaust if unchecked. Additionally, the Lebanese economy is under strain from the influx of Alawite refugees, exacerbating pre-existing social tensions within Lebanon’s multicultural society.
Mr. Nasr emphasized that poverty serves as the root of many issues facing Tripoli, advocating for comprehensive rebuilding strategies focused on marginalized communities. He acknowledged the role of the Lebanese army’s new commander, Brig Gen Rodolphe Haykal, in shoring up state authority and stability amidst increased military recruitment efforts. The appointment of a new Prime Minister, Nawaf Salam, has also sparked hope for progress in Lebanon’s political landscape.
Strengthening the Lebanese military is deemed vital for regional security, particularly concerning Hezbollah’s influence and the volatile situation in Syria. Mr. Nasr emphasized the need for international support to control border security effectively and to ensure that Lebanon does not fall into further chaos. The call for regional dialogues about the control of non-state actors is essential to ensure lasting peace and stability in the area, as history has shown the dire consequences of unmonitored armed groups.
In summary, the humanitarian crisis affecting the Alawite community in Syria necessitates immediate international intervention to prevent further violence and a potential refugee disaster for Lebanon. Furthermore, regional cooperation and a commitment to economic development in neglected areas like Tripoli are crucial for averting future sectarian tensions. Enhancing the Lebanese military’s capabilities and fostering positive intercommunal relations stand as key elements in rebuilding a more stable and peaceful Lebanon.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
