Syria and Lebanon have agreed to a ceasefire along their border after violent clashes resulted in fatalities and injuries. The agreement includes increased military cooperation. The conflict was sparked by accusations against Hezbollah, which the group denies. Ongoing political instability in Syria continues to pose challenges for both nations.
Representatives from the defense ministries of Lebanon and Syria have successfully negotiated a ceasefire aimed at resolving clashes along their shared border, which had persisted for two days. This agreement, as reported by The Times of Israel, includes provisions for enhanced coordination and cooperation between the two nations’ military forces.
On March 17, Lebanese President Michel Aoun instructed the military to retaliate against gunfire emanating from Syria, which had escalated following a night of violent confrontations. The Lebanese Ministry of Health reported the tragic loss of seven Lebanese citizens and injuries to 52 others, including a four-year-old girl, as a direct consequence of these clashes.
The armed conflict erupted when the temporary Syrian government accused the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah of crossing the border, abducting three Syrian soldiers, and subsequently killing them within Lebanese territory on March 15. While Hezbollah has denied involvement, reports suggest that local clans in the border region may be implicated in such activities, potentially involving cross-border smuggling.
These clashes mark the most severe cross-border violence since the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria last December. The situation in the Middle East has been characterized by significant political and security instability, particularly following the expulsion of the Islamic movement Hayat Tahrir al-Sham from power.
The newly established administration under movement leader Ahmed al-Sharaa is seeking to forge connections with Western nations. Concurrently, Assad supporters have engaged in violent confrontations with the current government, resulting in 48 casualties. The Syrian president has labeled these attacks as attempts to provoke civil war within the nation.
The recent ceasefire agreement between Syria and Lebanon signifies a critical step to end ongoing clashes that have resulted in significant casualties. The political landscape remains tumultuous, with various factions vying for control and a prevailing threat of civil unrest. Vigilance and cooperative efforts will be essential for maintaining peace and stability in the region moving forward.
Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua
