Lebanese Town Under Attack Amid Ceasefire with Syria

The Lebanese border town of Housh Al-Sayyid Ali faced gunfire and shelling amidst a ceasefire with Syria, occurring during a funeral. Recent clashes were sparked by accusations of Hezbollah’s involvement in the deaths of Syrian individuals. The Lebanese army reinforced its position in the area, following a ceasefire agreement, while Hezbollah voiced concerns over foreign interference in regional stability.

On Thursday, during a funeral in the Lebanese town of Housh Al-Sayyid Ali, gunfire and shelling from Syria’s Al-Qusayr countryside occurred, despite an existing ceasefire. Reports did not provide details on any potential damages or casualties resulting from this incident.

The recent clashes in the region were ignited by the deaths of three individuals, who were identified as Syrian soldiers by Syria’s Ministry of Defense. They accused Hezbollah of executing these soldiers, a charge that Hezbollah has denied. Lebanese Defense Minister Michel Menassa clarified that the deceased were actually smugglers, whose bodies were returned to Syrian authorities, and he emphasized the need for enhanced cooperation between Lebanon and Syria to avoid future conflicts.

A ceasefire was established after discussions between Minister Menassa and his Syrian counterpart, Marhaf Abu Qasra. Subsequently, the Lebanese army took action by entering Housh Al-Sayyid Ali on Wednesday to clear remnants of the conflict and strengthen military presence in the area.

Hezbollah MP Hussein Al-Hajj Hassan commended the Lebanese army’s actions and encouraged support from border communities. He reiterated Hezbollah’s adherence to the “Army, People, Resistance” doctrine and cautioned that external entities, particularly foreign intelligence and American influence, were inciting instability in the region.

The attack on Housh Al-Sayyid Ali during a funeral signifies ongoing tensions along the Lebanese-Syrian border, despite a ceasefire. The recent clashes initiating from the alleged execution of Syrian individuals highlight the need for regional cooperation to maintain peace. The Lebanese army’s proactive deployment and Hezbollah’s commitment illustrate attempts to stabilize the area against external destabilizing influences.

Original Source: shafaq.com