Syria rejects Israeli claims, suspends crossing activity temporarily
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Syrian authorities on Saturday responded to an Israeli warning of potential airstrikes targeting the Masnaa border crossing between Syria and Lebanon, denying claims that the site is used for military purposes.
Earlier in the day, the Israeli army issued a warning to individuals present in the Masnaa border area and along the M30 highway, which connects Beirut to Damascus, calling for immediate evacuation ahead of planned strikes.
The Israeli army stated that the warning was issued due to what it described as Hezbollah’s use of the crossing for military purposes and for the transfer of weapons.
In response, the Syrian General Authority for Land and Sea Ports denied the allegations, stressing that the Jdeidat Yabous crossing is designated exclusively for civilian transit.
Mazen Alloush, Director of Public Relations at the authority, said: “The Jdeidat Yabous border crossing is dedicated solely to the passage of civilians and is not used for any military purposes. There are no armed groups or militias present, and it is not permitted to use it for any activities outside civilian and legal frameworks.”
He added that, “In order to ensure the safety of travelers, crossing movement will be temporarily suspended until potential risks subside, with operations to resume once stability is confirmed.”
The Masnaa crossing serves as a key transit point between Syria and Lebanon, facilitating civilian travel and trade between the two countries.