Approximately 10,000 Alawites have fled sectarian violence in Syria into Lebanon, heightening fears of renewed conflict, specifically in Tripoli’s historically contentious areas. The Syrian Observatory reports over 1,300 deaths recently linked to the violence. Lebanon’s security forces have reacted by bolstering defenses, yet concerns grow about possible incursions by Syrian armed groups and the impact of rampant firearm smuggling on domestic peace.
Recent tensions in Lebanon have escalated following the arrival of 10,000 Alawites from Syria over just five days, seeking refuge from rising sectarian violence. These individuals have primarily settled in northern regions, particularly in Tripoli’s Bab Al Tebbaneh and Jabal Mohsen districts, areas historically marked by conflicts between Sunni and Alawite factions. Lebanese security officials express concerns that the fragile situation could ignite renewed hostilities among these communities.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported a grim toll with over 1,300 deaths since Thursday, including 800 civilians, amid clashes between pro-government forces and various opposition groups. Violence has intensified in Syrian coastal areas sparked by the killing of two pro-government soldiers, leading to deadly retaliations affecting the Alawite population.
In response to the influx of refugees, Lebanese state forces have fortified the predominantly Alawite Jabal Mohsen region, anticipating potential confrontations. The local demographic composition complicates the situation, with Tripoli’s population being largely Sunni, and each faction having previously supported opposing sides in the ongoing Syrian conflict.
With the collapse of Syria’s military resulting in rampant firearm availability, smuggling has surged, further complicating Lebanon’s security landscape. For instance, an AK-47 can be purchased for approximately $25 due to the influx of smuggled weapons. Despite Lebanon’s attempts to seal land border crossings with Syria, illegal channels remain operational, aggravating the arms flow.
Additionally, there are warnings that the sectarian violence in Syria could provoke incursions from Syrian armed factions seeking to pursue fleeing Alawites in Lebanon. Reports indicate that pro-government Syrian forces are mobilizing near the Lebanese border, raising alarms about the potential for a larger conflict involving external armed groups.
The recent refugee crisis in Lebanon, marked by the arrival of a significant number of Alawites escaping sectarian violence in Syria, has revived concerns over possible conflict in the already volatile northern regions. The ongoing influx is exacerbated by the widespread availability of firearms and the potential for Syrian forces to pursue their interests across the border. If not addressed, these tensions could lead to further instability and violence in Lebanon.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
