The Lebanese army has deployed to Hawsh Al-Sayyid Ali amidst escalating tensions along the Lebanon-Syria border, triggered by clashes related to smuggling disputes. The army aims to establish security and address illegal crossings, as civilian displacement has followed the conflict. Communication and negotiations between Lebanese and Syrian officials continue to seek a resolution, with emphasis on maintaining a ceasefire.
On March 19, 2025, the Lebanese army advanced into Hawsh Al-Sayyid Ali, a town located on Lebanon’s eastern border with Syria. This deployment was marked by the arrival of military vehicles reaching the town’s administrative border, as delineated by official Lebanese maps. The town is divided, with one portion in Syrian territory populated by Lebanese citizens, while the other lies within Lebanon.
This military action was prompted by recent communication aimed at ceasing armed hostilities that erupted the previous Sunday, attributed to disputes among smugglers in a region plagued by illegal crossings. The altercations escalated following the fatalities of three Syrian gunmen, igniting a larger conflict involving Lebanese tribes and armed factions linked to Syrian authorities.
The Lebanese Ministry of Health reported that the skirmishes resulted in the deaths of seven Lebanese individuals and injuries to 52, alongside substantial damage to property from the ensuing artillery exchanges between Syrian forces and local Lebanese tribes. On Monday night, Syrian Ministry of Defense-affiliated forces entered the Syrian territory of this disputed town.
Negotiations regarding deployment zones, based on established border maps, delayed the Lebanese army’s initiative for several hours. When the army convoy, consisting of 60 vehicles, reached the town’s outskirts, the deployment faced initial protests regarding the seizing of local clans’ weapons. However, operations resumed smoothly thereafter, enabling the army to fulfill its objective.
The Lebanese army command announced active security measures in the Hawsh Al-Sayyid Ali area, including patrol deployments to foster security and stabilize the border region. As part of these measures, the army has begun closing illegal crossings, specifically in areas vulnerable to smuggling activities. Locations such as Al-Matlaba and other crossings near Baalbek have been targeted for closure to prevent further incursions.
President Joseph Aoun has been closely monitoring developments along the northeastern border, remaining in contact with army chief General Rodolphe Haikal to remain briefed on efforts to restore tranquility. Aoun emphasized that sustaining the ceasefire and controlling border aggression remain priorities, cautioning that unregulated conditions are unacceptable.
Intensified communication between Lebanon and Syria followed, including discussions between foreign ministers from both nations aimed at resolving border escalation issues. These efforts culminated in a ceasefire arrangement facilitated by the intelligence agencies of both countries.
Following army deployment, displaced individuals from Hawsh Al-Sayyid Ali began preparations to return home. Notably, Hezbollah has denied involvement in the recent border incidents with Syria, despite allegations in Syrian media of seizing significant weaponry and contraband linked to Hezbollah operations in the town.
The situation at the Lebanon-Syria border remains complex, characterized by military maneuvers, civilian displacement, and an ongoing need for diplomatic resolution. The Lebanese army’s deployment aims to stabilize the region while efforts continue to ensure a ceasefire and secure illegal crossings. Both nations are engaged in talks to alleviate tensions and restore order, underscoring the significance of collaboration in addressing cross-border issues.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
