The defence ministers of Lebanon and Syria met in Jeddah to discuss border security issues amidst rising tensions. A ceasefire agreement was reached, and committees for border demarcation and coordination were established. Despite this, unresolved conflicts leave potential for renewed tensions along the border.
In a significant meeting held in Jeddah, the defence ministers of Lebanon and Syria addressed cooperation on border security following recent tensions. Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman facilitated discussions between Lebanon’s Michel Menassa and Syria’s Murhaf Abu Qasra. This meeting emerged after deadly confrontations along the Syrian-Lebanese border and resulted in a signed ceasefire agreement.
The agreement aims to delineate the border and establish legal and specialized committees to enhance coordination mechanisms for addressing security challenges, particularly those affecting the border regions. Additionally, there are plans for a subsequent meeting in Saudi Arabia to continue these discussions.
The Saudi Press Agency emphasized, “The kingdom affirms its full support for everything that achieves the security and stability of the two brotherly countries and contributes to maintaining security and stability in the region.” Previously, the ministers had aimed to convene in Syria, but the meeting was postponed due to new security appointments by the Syrian government.
Clashes over the past month escalated tensions at the border, leading to casualties, including the death of a Lebanese teenager due to Syrian bombing. While a ceasefire is in effect, unresolved issues indicate that conflicts could resurface. Historically, relations between Lebanon and Syria have been fraught, particularly following the fall of former President Bashar Al Assad.
Incidents of conflict along the border have been driven by the involvement of Syrian forces and the Iranian-backed Hezbollah, with reports of Hezbollah-linked smuggling operations enduring despite Syrian authorities’ commitments to crack down on them. This meeting represents a notable effort to stabilize the security situation along the volatile border.
The recent meeting between the defence ministers of Lebanon and Syria signifies a critical step toward addressing border security challenges in the region. While a ceasefire has been established, unresolved tensions persist. Continued dialogue and cooperation are essential for fostering stability and improving the historically rocky relationship between the two nations.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
