Syrian, Lebanese Armies Clash Over Three Killed Syrian Soldiers
Rabat – The Lebanese army said it is in communication with Syrian authorities, after the two countries exchanged fire along their borders. The new round of clashes was triggered by the kidnapping and killing of three Syrian soldiers, for which the country's defense ministry accused Hezbollah.
The Lebanese defense ministry said in a statement that Hezbollah allegedly kidnapped the three in Zeita Dam along the Lebanese-Syrian border, took them to Lebanese territory, and then executed them.
It added that 'this blatant aggression will not go unanswered,' continuing it 'will take all the necessary measures after this dangerous escalation from the Hezbollah militia.'
Hezbollah rejects the accusation, saying in a statement that it 'categorically denies any connection to the events taking place today on the Lebanese-Syrian border.'
Lebanese security sources informed that the Syrian soldiers were shot at by tribe members after they crossed the border into their town. Two Syrians died once shot, while the third was severely injured and transferred to the hospital before succumbing to his wounds, the statement added.
In response, Syria retaliated by launching artillery shelling from the Qusayr countryside onto the town of Al-Qasr, pushing residents to flee and escape the bombardment.
A statement from the Lebanese army indicated that it had handed over the bodies of the three killed soldiers to Syrian authorities and sent reinforcements to the border area in response to the firing.
It noted that contacts between the Lebanese army leadership and Syrian authorities are ongoing to maintain security and stability along the border, which have been subject to recurrent clashes since the rebellion ousted Bashar al-Assad – Hezbollah's ally – and established their institutions.
The borders between Lebanon and Syria span over 375 kilometers and feature rugged terrain with no clear demarcation in many areas. With only six official border crossings, the region remains leaky, leaving room for more frequent activity at unauthorized routes. Tags: Hezbollah and SyriaLebanon and Syria
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