Syria Reopens Border Crossing with Lebanon after Israeli Strikes
Damascus, Syria (North Press Agency) – The Syrian government announced Wednesday the partial reopening of the Jdeidet Yabous–Al-Masnaa border crossing between Syria and Lebanon. The crossing had been out of service for over a month following an Israeli airstrike that severely damaged the infrastructure.
Israel previously claimed the strike targeted Hezbollah’s alleged use of the crossing to transport weapons from Syria into Lebanon.
Partial Restoration Efforts
Jassem Al-Mahmoud, Deputy Governor of Rural Damascus, told Sham FM Radio that the crossing has reopened for limited movement. “The passage of civilians and vehicles on the road connecting the Jdeidet Yabous and Al-Masnaa border crossing has resumed on a partial basis,” Al-Mahmoud stated.
Crews have filled parts of the large crater left by the Israeli airstrike and created a temporary dirt road to facilitate movement, according to Al-Mahmoud.
Lebanese Return After Ceasefire Agreement
The reopening coincides with a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon reached on Tuesday, which brought a temporary halt to hostilities in the region.
Since the early hours of Wednesday, large numbers of displaced Lebanese citizens have begun returning to their homes, fleeing the conflict that had displaced thousands.
Strategic and Humanitarian Significance
The Al-Masnaa crossing serves as a crucial connection point for Syria and Lebanon, supporting not only trade but also the movement of residents and emergency supplies. The partial restoration comes as both nations struggle with the aftermath of prolonged conflict and military tensions.
Israel’s frequent strikes in Syria, particularly targeting infrastructure and border regions, have drawn condemnation from Damascus, which accuses Israel of violating sovereignty and exacerbating regional instability.
While the reopening marks a step toward restoring normalcy, the situation remains precarious. Syrian authorities emphasized the temporary nature of the current repairs and the need for full reconstruction to restore the crossing’s functionality completely.