Clashes have erupted between Lebanese forces and Syrian troops on Lebanon’s northeastern border, with both sides accusing each other of involvement in the violence.
The Syrian government, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, claims that Hezbollah kidnapped and killed three members of Syria’s security forces. However, Hezbollah has denied any involvement, stating that the soldiers initially crossed into Lebanese territory and were subsequently killed by armed members of a tribe.
The Lebanese military responded by shelling Syrian territories in retaliation, prompting some residents to flee. The country’s president, Joseph Aoun, has called for an end to the violence, saying “what is happening on our borders cannot continue.”
A large number of Lebanese soldiers have been deployed to the border region, and heavy fighting has broken out near the town of Hosh al-Sayyed Ali. Lebanon’s border with Syria has been tense since the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad, a long-time ally of Hezbollah.
The clashes come as both countries’ leaders have expressed desire to strengthen ties between them, despite the current hostility towards Hezbollah. The situation remains volatile, posing significant challenges to regional stability.
Source: https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/lebanese-army-syrian-forces-clash-northeastern-border