Lebanon and Syria have agreed to a ceasefire after two days of clashes along their border, which resulted in seven Lebanese deaths and numerous injuries. The conflict was sparked by accusations against Hezbollah officials and involves local clans. The ceasefire includes enhanced coordination efforts between the two countries, aimed at preventing further escalation of violence.
On Monday, Lebanese and Syrian defense officials reached a ceasefire agreement following two days of border clashes, according to Syria’s state-run SANA news agency. This agreement includes provisions for enhanced coordination and cooperation between the two nations. The renewed violence resulted tragically, with the Lebanese Health Ministry reporting seven fatalities and at least 52 injuries, including a 4-year-old girl.
Clashes emerged after Syria’s interim government accused Hezbollah militants from Lebanon of crossing the border, allegedly abducting and killing three Syrian soldiers. Hezbollah denied these allegations, attributing the conflict to local tribes involved in smuggling operations. This violence marks the most significant cross-border conflict since the ousting of former Syrian President Bashar Assad in December.
In addition to the fatalities on the Lebanese side, reports indicated that five Syrian soldiers were killed during the skirmish, with families depicted fleeing towards the Lebanese town of Hermel. President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon demanded action, instructing the Lebanese army to respond decisively to threats emanating from the Syrian border.
Aoun further requested that the Lebanese foreign minister coordinate with Syrian officials to mitigate tensions and prevent further escalation. Reports suggest that local Lebanese Shiite clans, closely tied to Assad’s former regime, have exacerbated violence in this border region. The Lebanese and Syrian armies have since initiated communication channels aimed at easing the situation.
Additional incidents involved the wounding of four Syrian journalists following an artillery shell fired from Lebanon. Senior Hezbollah legislator Hussein Haj Hassan alleged that Syrian fighters crossed into Lebanese territory, leading to attacks on border villages. Meanwhile, Lebanon is attempting to secure international support to bolster military funding as it deploys troops to secure its borders.
The agreement for a ceasefire between Lebanon and Syria highlights the ongoing tensions and violence along their shared border, exacerbated by recent clashes involving Hezbollah and accusations of border incursions. The casualties on both sides underscore the dire need for diplomatic resolution and increased cooperation to stabilize the region. Continued international attention and support are critical as Lebanon addresses its security challenges, particularly along its porous borders.
Original Source: www.thecanadianpressnews.ca
