Lebanese Army Restores Control in Hawsh al-Sayyid Ali, Easing Border Tensions

The Lebanese army has reestablished control over the border town of Hawsh al-Sayyid Ali, following negotiations that led to the withdrawal of Syrian forces. The army is now facilitating the safe return of locals and dismantling ammunition stockpiles. However, access to homes in Syrian-controlled land is currently prohibited. The army is also working to close illegal crossings and prevent armed displays, marking a significant step in stabilizing the area after recent tensions and clashes.

The Lebanese army has successfully restored order in the contested border town of Hawsh al-Sayyid Ali. This operation involved the strategic deployment of special units, collaboration with local factions, and direct negotiations with Syrian counterparts referencing administrative division maps of the border region.

Following two days of discussions, the border status in Hawsh al-Sayyid Ali was clarified, revealing that the Syrian army had occupied land within Lebanese territory. As a result of these negotiations, Syrian forces withdrew from the town on Wednesday morning, allowing the Lebanese army to enter and establish fixed checkpoints throughout the reclaimed area.

In addition to securing the town, engineering units of the Lebanese army commenced operations to clear remnants of conflict and unexploded ordnance, facilitating a safe return for locals. The Lebanese army also dismantled ammunition stockpiles previously held by Syrian forces, returning them to Syrian territory.

Local returns, however, are limited to properties strictly within Lebanese borders, as the military has confirmed that access to homes in Syrian-controlled areas is prohibited at this juncture. When locals sought to re-enter the vicinity later in the day, they encountered gunfire from Syrian territory, compelling them to withdraw.

Moreover, the Lebanese army has shut down illegal crossings in the Qasr-Hermel region and the Masharee al-Qaa area to curb smuggling and unauthorized infiltration. The army is also focused on preventing armed displays, addressing any objections swiftly.

This operation marks a significant step towards resolving ongoing tensions and restoring stability after multiple clashes. Observers argue that the Syrian army’s previous incursion into Hawsh al-Sayyid Ali transcends mere border disputes, highlighting the strategic significance of the area, especially for groups like Hezbollah, which relies on these routes for logistics.

Interestingly, during recent confrontations on the eastern border, Hezbollah notably refrained from participating, indicating a calculated restraint amid these evolving dynamics.

The Lebanese army’s successful operation in Hawsh al-Sayyid Ali underscores the importance of territorial control and the complexities surrounding the Lebanon-Syria border. The withdrawal of Syrian forces and the subsequent establishment of checkpoints by the Lebanese army signal a crucial step towards restoring order and protecting Lebanese sovereignty. However, the ongoing restrictions on local returns to Syrian-held properties and the closure of illegal crossings reflect persistent challenges in the region, particularly regarding smuggling and security. The absence of Hezbollah’s involvement in recent clashes raises questions about the shifting strategic landscape in border dynamics.

Original Source: www.lbcgroup.tv