Lebanese authorities have apprehended numerous Syrian regime officers following an Interpol warrant for Jamil Hassan, head of Syrian Air Force Intelligence. These officers had fled Syria amidst unrest and fear for their lives due to their affiliations. Reports indicate involvement in arms sales at severe discounts, prompting Lebanese government’s new alignment with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham for regional security.
In a significant development, Lebanese authorities have detained numerous officers from the Syrian regime, including members of the notorious Fourth Armoured Division, following a period of unrest in Syria. This follows a warrant issued by Interpol for Jamil Hassan, head of the Syrian Air Force Intelligence, who is accused of war crimes and responsible for numerous civilian casualties. Many of the detained officers had illegally crossed into Lebanon from Syria, fearing for their safety due to their ties with the ousted regime. Reports indicate that they were apprehended while selling military weaponry at significantly reduced prices.
The Lebanese caretaker Prime Minister, Najib Mikati, is directing local institutions to collaborate with the de facto rulers of Syria’s northwest, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), in managing security matters along the border. Initial cooperation efforts have emphasized the need for stability in the region amid concerns over illegal crossings and militant activities. This prospective collaboration marks a noteworthy shift in Lebanon’s approach towards maintaining border security and addressing the aftermath of the Syrian war.
The ongoing conflict in Syria has resulted in the exodus of numerous military personnel from the Assad regime, many of whom have sought refuge in neighboring Lebanon. Following Bashar al-Assad’s regime collapse, fears of retribution have compelled some former officials to evade return to Syria and face potential consequences for their actions during the war. Lebanon’s approval to arrest former regime officials at the request of Interpol indicates a significant legal and diplomatic engagement in the face of war crimes allegations against those previously in power.
In summary, Lebanon’s recent detention of former Syrian regime officers underscores the continuing ramifications of the Syrian conflict and demonstrates a potential shift in regional security dynamics. The collaboration between Lebanese authorities and HTS highlights the complexities of governance and law enforcement in a post-war context. Furthermore, the Interpol warrant for Jamil Hassan illustrates a significant international effort to hold accountable those accused of serious human rights violations during the war.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
