Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun has ordered military retaliation against Syria following escalating cross-border violence involving armed clashes between Hezbollah and the Syrian army. The situation arose after Hezbollah allegedly crossed into Syria, resulting in fatal incidents. Both nations are now trying to communicate to ease tensions, while Lebanon seeks international support for its military efforts on its borders.
On Monday, President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon ordered military action in response to gunfire originating from Syria, highlighting an escalation in border tensions. This recent violence arises from confrontations between the Syrian army and Lebanese Shiite clans aligned with Bashar al-Assad, Syria’s former leader. The intensification of hostilities follows accusations from Syria’s interim government that Hezbollah militants crossed the border, abducting and killing three soldiers on Lebanese territory.
The clashes marked one of the most significant instances of cross-border violence since Assad’s removal in December. Reports suggest that the Syrian army retaliated by shelling what it described as Hezbollah positions responsible for the deaths of Syrian soldiers. Hezbollah has denied any involvement in the events, while Lebanese officials claim the deceased individuals were engaged in smuggling activities.
Casualties on both sides were reported, including the death of a child and injuries to six others on the Lebanese side of the border. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights indicated that at least five Syrian soldiers lost their lives during the conflict. Footage captured in local media showed families fleeing the violence toward the town of Hermel, where fighting intensified.
President Aoun expressed his condemnation of the ongoing violence, stating, “What is happening along the eastern and northeastern border cannot continue and we will not accept that it continues.” He directed the Lebanese army to retaliate against the attackers and also urged the foreign minister to engage with Syrian officials to mitigate further conflict.
Tensions have increased, particularly among Lebanese armed groups with ties to Assad’s regime, particularly in Al-Qasr, a border village. Although communication channels between the Lebanese and Syrian armies have been established to de-escalate the situation, recent clashes have included low-level conflicts and attacks on Syrian military vehicles.
Moreover, four Syrian journalists, positioned with the army, sustained minor injuries from artillery fire originating from Lebanon. Hezbollah representatives accused Syrian fighters of crossing into Lebanon and initiating aggression against border communities. As these tensions persist, Lebanon is actively seeking international assistance to strengthen its military presence along its borders.
In summary, tensions between Lebanon and Syria have escalated significantly, with President Joseph Aoun ordering military retaliation following cross-border violence fueled by accusations of Hezbollah actions. The conflict has resulted in casualties and heightened fears of further escalation. Amidst these developments, Lebanon is seeking international support to bolster its military capabilities in response to the challenges along its borders.
Original Source: www.france24.com
