Lebanon and Syrian Transitional Government move to defuse border tensions after deadly clashes

Lebanon and the Syrian Transitional Government (STG) have agreed to withdraw military forces from the contested border town of Hawsh al-Sayyid Ali following days of deadly clashes. The decision, announced on Wednesday, is a pivotal step in easing tensions after a ceasefire agreement was reached earlier this week.

Deadly Clashes Spur Diplomacy

The recent escalation left ten people dead, including three soldiers from Syria’s newly formed army and seven Lebanese civilians. The violence erupted when Syrian troops allegedly crossed into Lebanese territory, prompting armed tribal members to retaliate. This led to a series of exchanges, including Syrian shelling of Lebanese border towns and retaliatory fire by the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF). The clashes also displaced residents from towns near the border.

Ceasefire Agreement

On Monday, Lebanese Defense Minister Michel Menassa and Syrian Defense Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra brokered a ceasefire, agreeing to strengthen coordination between their military intelligence units to prevent further violence. Both nations stressed the need for ongoing dialogue, with their foreign ministers meeting in Brussels to discuss maintaining stability in the volatile border region.

Withdrawal from Hawsh al-Sayyid Ali

The joint decision to withdraw troops from Hawsh al-Sayyid Ali aims to de-escalate the situation. According to Colonel Abdel Moneim Daher of Syria’s 1st Brigade, 52nd Division, the agreement includes the relocation of forces to the outskirts of the town, ensuring civilian safety and maintaining a buffer zone free of military presence. Daher warned that any violation, particularly by Hezbollah, would provoke an “immediate and decisive” response.

The Syrian Ministry of Defense has claimed that Hezbollah was involved in the abduction and killing of Syrian soldiers, a claim Hezbollah has denied. Both governments face pressure to stabilize the region, as the porous and rugged 375-kilometer border remains a hotspot for smuggling and other illicit activities.

Hezbollah’s Weapons Under Scrutiny

The ceasefire has reignited debates within Lebanon about Hezbollah’s role and armament. In an interview with Sawt Kul Lubnan, MP Ghada Ayoub (Lebanese Forces, LF), emphasized the necessity of implementing international resolutions that require Hezbollah to surrender its weapons.

“There is no need for any new decisions regarding Hezbollah’s weapons,” Ayoub stated, referencing provisions outlined in a truce agreement signed by a previous Lebanese government. She stressed the importance of setting a clear timeframe for disarmament, revealing that the Lebanese Forces have proposed a six-month deadline for the surrender of weapons through internal consensus.

Ayoub also highlighted the importance of demarcating Lebanon’s land and maritime borders with Israel to prevent further attacks. While she acknowledged the contentious issue of normalization or negotiations with Israel, she emphasized that such decisions lie with the government and the Lebanese state.

Looking Ahead

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has emphasized the importance of stabilizing the ceasefire and safeguarding border villages. Meanwhile, Syrian authorities are focusing on securing their borders and addressing internal threats, including drug smugglers and remnants of the previous regime.

The situation highlights the delicate balance of maintaining national security while fostering regional cooperation. With the renewed focus on Hezbollah’s disarmament and border demarcation, Lebanon’s internal dynamics and external diplomacy will play a crucial role in sustaining peace.