Why it matters:
The escalation threatens to pull Lebanon deeper into regional instability, as spillover from Syria’s conflict intensifies along the eastern and northeastern borders. The response marks a rare show of military assertiveness by Beirut.
The big picture:
Not satisfied with the killing of more than 800 in Syria, most of them civilians, the militants linked to Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) fired multiple rockets into Lebanese territory, striking residential areas. In response, Lebanon is engaging, both militarily and diplomatically, with its foreign minister being tasked to address the issue with Syrian officials.
What he’s saying:
Joseph Aoun: "What is happening on our eastern and northeastern borders cannot continue. I have ordered the army to retaliate against the source of these attacks."
Go deeper:
Alawites Flee Amid Fears of Massacre by Joulani Forces
Heavy Clashes Erupt Near Tartus Amid Syria’s Escalating Unrest
Mojtaba Darabi
