Lebanese Army Enters Contested Areas After Syria Agreement
As of March 20, the situation along the Lebanese-Syrian border continues to evolve, centered on the town of Hawsh al-Sayyed Ali. Days of clashes and shelling led to casualties, displacement, and lingering tension, prompting Beirut and Damascus to undertake renewed diplomatic and military coordination. While an initial agreement has begun to de-escalate hostilities, unresolved questions about territorial divisions and residents’ rights persist, leaving local communities wary of what lies ahead.
Ceasefire Implementation and Territorial Dispute
Following intense negotiations on Monday and Tuesday between the Lebanese and Syrian defense ministries, an agreement was reached to halt hostilities and redefine troop positions around Hawsh alSayyed Ali. Lebanese forces moved into the portion considered within Lebanon’s borders, ensuring the return of some displaced families whose homes had been thoroughly searched and partly secured by the army. Nonetheless, residents report that most houses were looted or burned during the clashes, deterring many from returning immediately. The property status of the Lebanese section of the town remains disputed, despite long-standing official documentation showing it belongs to Lebanon, and a Lebanese public school there that has operated for over fifty years.
Syrian forces have largely withdrawn from the recognized Lebanese side of the town. However, the agreement did not address the situation of Lebanese nationals who had been living in the portion deemed on the Syrian side. According to sources familiar with the negotiations, the new Syrian authorities intend to retain control over that sector and prevent displaced Lebanese families from returning. These unresolved questions underscore the deep-seated complexities inherent to the region’s overlapping boundaries.
Lingering Tensions and Military Posturing
Despite a relative reduction in open hostilities, significant troop deployments remain on both sides of the border. Local leaders confirm that one Lebanese casualty from the Haj Hassan family and a deceased combatant from a Syrian faction were exchanged, easing immediate tensions. Yet, uncertainty lingers, as various armed groups—including factions associated with the new Syrian administration—continue to operate in close proximity. According to local accounts, the Syrian side asserts that if there is any breach of the current agreement by certain Lebanese parties, they will respond firmly and without warning.
Lebanese authorities, for their part, have reiterated their commitment to securing the border. Four unofficial crossing points in Hermel-Baalbek were closed to curb smuggling and unauthorized movement, and the Lebanese Army has been patrolling to deter renewed violence. During this period, however, sporadic incidents remain possible, with officials cautioning that further flare-ups may occur unless a more comprehensive political and security arrangement is reached.
Community Dynamics and Outlook
The social fabric in Hawsh al-Sayyed Ali and its environs remains fragile. Tribal networks, armed groups, and lingering mistrust complicate attempts at disarmament or closer coordination with regular forces.
Local civilians, some of whom are wary of surrendering their weapons given recent violence, argue that genuine security requires a sustained and impartial state presence. There is also concern that the separate patrols by the Lebanese military in one part of town and by armed factions affiliated with the new Syrian authorities in the other could intensify divisions instead of resolving them.
At the political level, high-level engagement continues, although challenges persist in coordinating with certain Syrian factions. Sources familiar with the process note that lines of communication between Lebanon’s government and some armed elements operating on Syrian territory remain tenuous, potentially undercutting ceasefire efforts. Still, both Beirut and Damascus stress that an enduring settlement of border disputes must be grounded in continued dialogue, clear demarcation of frontiers, and respect for the rights of local populations. For the time being, the precarious calm stands as the product of delicate negotiations—one that could either evolve into a more durable peace or unravel if future incidents reignite the conflict.
As of this report, the Lebanese Army continues consolidating its positions in the recognized Lebanese side of Hawsh al-Sayyed Ali, while the Syrian forces and associated groups patrol the areas they control.
Although tension has eased in comparison to the previous days, the underlying issues of borders, property rights, and the status of displaced families remain unresolved, leaving the broader security situation subject to ongoing developments. Further updates will follow as the situation on the ground continues to unfold.
