Tensions between Syria and Lebanon surged after an ambush carried out by Hezbollah militants resulted in the abduction and murder of three Syrian soldiers near the border, according to the Syrian Ministry of Defense. The incident, which took place near the Zeita Dam west of Homs, has intensified clashes between the Syrian army and Hezbollah militants, leading to widespread shelling and military reinforcements in the border region.
Hezbollah Accused of Cross-Border Raid
The Syrian Ministry of Defense reported that a Hezbollah-affiliated group ambushed three soldiers from the Syrian army’s 103rd Brigade before taking them into Lebanese territory, where they were killed. The Lebanese Army later transferred their bodies back to Syrian authorities through the Jousieh border crossing with assistance from the Lebanese Red Cross.
A video circulating on social media allegedly shows a Hezbollah militant documenting the stoning to death of a captured Syrian soldier, further fueling anger in Damascus. In response, Syrian forces launched artillery strikes on Hezbollah positions along the border, including in the Lebanese town of Al-Qasr.
Hezbollah has denied involvement, releasing a statement insisting it had “no connection to any events taking place inside Syrian territory.” However, Syrian state media, citing security sources, maintains that Hezbollah is responsible for the attack.
Intensified Clashes & Military Reinforcements
The incident comes amid heightened military tensions in the region. In February, violent clashes broke out between Syrian forces and smuggling groups linked to Hezbollah and Lebanese clans operating along the border. Heavy weapons were used during the fighting, which resulted in Syria taking control of several villages in the Qusayr countryside, including Akkoum, Balouza, Zeita, Hit, and Buwayt.
Following the recent killings, the Syrian Ministry of Defense has deployed additional troops to the border, vowing to “take all necessary measures” in response. Syrian forces have since launched a series of artillery strikes targeting Hezbollah positions, reportedly coordinating efforts with the Lebanese army to secure border crossings.
Civilian Displacement Amid Cross-Border Shelling
The escalation has sparked concerns of further instability along the border. Lebanese media reported that several rockets originating from Syria struck the town of Al-Qasr in Lebanon on Sunday, though no casualties were confirmed. Meanwhile, videos circulating online show exchanges of missile fire between Syrian forces and Hezbollah fighters.
As clashes continue, residents in border towns have begun fleeing toward Lebanon’s Hermel region, fearing further violence. With both Syrian and Lebanese authorities emphasizing the need for enhanced security coordination, it remains unclear whether tensions will subside or lead to further military confrontations.
