Syria has reinforced its border with Lebanon, deploying thousands of troops and rocket units, according to eight Syrian and Lebanese sources. This move comes as regional conflict intensifies, including exchanges between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Sources, including Syrian military officers and Lebanese security officials, indicated the reinforcement began in February and accelerated recently. Syrian officials stated the deployment aims to prevent arms and drug smuggling and block potential infiltration by Iran-backed Hezbollah or other militants. Military formations from several Syrian army divisions have increased their presence along the western Homs and southern Tartus border areas, including infantry, armored vehicles, and short-range rocket launchers.
A Syrian security official asserted Damascus has no plans for offensive action but is prepared for security threats. The deployment has raised concerns among some European and Lebanese officials regarding a potential incursion, though Syrian military officers denied such intentions, emphasizing a desire for balanced relations with Lebanon.
Hezbollah resumed firing at Israel, following a ceasefire in 2024. Israel has conducted near-daily strikes and ordered evacuations in southern Lebanon, displacing tens of thousands. A senior Lebanese security official reported Syrian authorities described the rocket launcher deployment along the eastern border as a defensive measure against potential actions by Hezbollah against Syria.