Lebanese and Syrian Defense Ministers Meet in Jeddah to Address Border Security

The defense ministers of Lebanon and Syria met in Jeddah to discuss border security after tensions led to deadly clashes. An agreement was reached to demarcate their border and establish committees for security cooperation. Despite a ceasefire, underlying issues remain unresolved, with ongoing conflicts at the border. Saudi Arabia’s involvement underscores efforts for regional stability.

On Thursday, the defense ministers of Lebanon and Syria convened in Jeddah following tensions at their border, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency. This meeting, hosted by Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman, comes on the heels of deadly clashes that led to a ceasefire. The discussions aimed to enhance security and stability between Damascus and Beirut, culminating in an agreement to demarcate the border and form specialized committees to address security challenges. A follow-up meeting is also scheduled in Saudi Arabia.

The Saudi government emphasized its commitment to supporting the stability of both Lebanon and Syria, affirming that it contributes to regional security. The Lebanese and Syrian ministers had previously intended to meet in Syria, but the meeting was postponed due to new security appointments in Damascus. This month, border clashes intensified, resulting in significant casualties, including eight Syrian soldiers and a Lebanese boy, raising concerns about future conflicts despite the ceasefire.

Relations between Lebanon and Syria have historically been turbulent, particularly after the ousting of former president Bashar Al Assad. Tensions at the border have been exacerbated by conflicts involving the Hayat Tahrir Al Sham group and Hezbollah, which are entrenched in the area. Syrian authorities are now taking steps to combat smuggling rings linked to Hezbollah, aiming to secure the border effectively.

Saudi Arabia’s role in facilitating this meeting highlights its efforts to mediate disputes and promote stability in the region, amidst persistent tensions between the neighboring countries.

The meeting between the Lebanese and Syrian defense ministers in Jeddah represents a significant diplomatic effort to address ongoing border tensions and enhance security cooperation. Despite the fragile ceasefire and the historical complexities of Lebanon-Syria relations, Saudi Arabia’s mediation signifies a move towards stability. However, unresolved underlying issues could lead to future conflicts, necessitating ongoing dialogue and collaboration between both nations.

Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com