Syrian Military Launches Security Operation on Lebanese Border Amid Rising Tensions

Syrian military forces deploy along the Lebanese border as part of a security operation.
Syrian military forces deploy along the Lebanese border as part of a security operation.

By Kardo Roj

DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – The Syrian Ministry of Defense has launched a large-scale security operation targeting arms and drug smuggling networks along the Lebanese border, focusing on the village of Hawik and surrounding areas in western Homs province.

According to the official Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA), the operation aims to shut down smuggling routes used for illicit trade, reinforcing government control in the region.

Clashes Erupt, Syrian Forces Briefly Captured

Local sources reported that armed clashes erupted between Syrian border forces and smugglers during the operation, leading to the temporary abduction of two Syrian military personnel. The captives were reportedly freed shortly after in a counter-operation.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) confirmed that military operations extended to multiple villages, including Balouza, Al-Fadliyah, Akoum, and border areas leading into Lebanon. The observatory claimed that the crackdown specifically targeted smugglers and individuals with ties to Hezbollah.

Meanwhile, Lebanon’s An-Nahar newspaper reported that the Syrian military bombarded Hawik with artillery and anti-aircraft fire to secure control over the area, despite resistance from local factions. Civilians reportedly attempted to prevent the military from establishing checkpoints in the area, fearing increased restrictions on border movement.

Hezbollah’s Alleged Involvement

Reports from local activist groups and media outlets suggested Hezbollah operatives clashed with Syrian forces during the operation. Some accounts indicated Hezbollah briefly detained two Syrian military personnel and seized a vehicle before the Syrian army regained control. However, Hezbollah has not officially commented on the incident.

The Lebanese-Syrian border has long been a hotspot for illicit activities, with arms and drug smuggling networks exploiting weak border controls. The latest military operation highlights the Syrian government’s efforts to assert greater control over its borders amid shifting power dynamics in the region.