Lebanon's Military Ordered to Respond to Syrian Fire
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Synopsis
On February 9, the Lebanese army ordered its troops at the Syrian border to retaliate against gunfire from Syria. This action follows directives from President Joseph Aoun in response to recent attacks on Lebanese areas.
Key Takeaways
- Lebanese army responding to attacks from Syria.
- President Joseph Aoun issued the directive.
- Recent clashes have led to civilian injuries.
- Municipalities demand action to protect civilians.
- Increased military presence near Hermel.
Beirut, Feb 9 (NationPress) The Lebanese army announced that it has instructed troops stationed along the Syrian border to retaliate against gunfire emanating from Syria. The military, in an official statement, mentioned that it acted upon orders from Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, directing military forces along the northern and eastern borders to respond to the gunfire targeting Lebanese territories.
The statement further indicated that units have commenced retaliatory measures using appropriate weaponry following recent confrontations that resulted in several Lebanese regions being shelled and attacked, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Lebanon's National News Agency (NNA) noted an intensified army presence in new locations on the outskirts of Hermel, close to the Syrian border. Reports indicated that an army observation post was struck by artillery from Syria, resulting in only material damage.
Local municipalities in the Hermel district urged the Lebanese government to take action to safeguard civilians following repeated assaults on Lebanese villages from Syria. They stressed that the Lebanese army should assume complete responsibility amidst the escalating tensions and strive to cease these aggressive actions.
The NNA also reported that the Lebanese Red Cross transported eight individuals to hospitals in Hermel after they sustained injuries from the shelling in the northern border area. It indicated that the shelling from Syria affected the towns of Zakiyah, Ard al-Sabea, Sahlat al-Maa, and Qanafez, injuring civilians.
The temporary government in Syria previously stated that it had conducted military operations near the Syria-Lebanon border to combat smuggling activities and dismantle smuggling networks.
