Syria’s embassy in Lebanon halted consular services following arrests of Assad’s relatives with forged passports, coinciding with Lebanon’s deportation of 70 Syrians to HTS-led Syrian authorities. Diplomatic engagements with regional countries are increasing, but tensions and protests concerning women’s rights persist in the new political order.
On Saturday, Syria’s embassy in Lebanon suspended its consular services following the apprehension of two relatives of former Syrian President Bashar Assad at Beirut airport with suspected forged passports. This decision came a day after Lebanese authorities deported around 70 Syrians, including former army officers, to the new Syrian regime led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). The embassy’s suspension was announced via Facebook, citing an order from the Syrian foreign ministry without providing further justification.
Simultaneously, Lebanese officials confirmed the handover of these individuals in light of their illegal entry into Lebanon. Reports indicated that tensions between HTS and pro-Assad factions have escalated, with sporadic clashes almost breaking out. The new authority has also intensified security measures, conducting raids and setting checkpoints aimed at uncovering arms within territories populated by Assad’s Alawite minority.
Regional dynamics appear to be shifting, as countries like Libya and Bahrain have begun to engage diplomatically with Syria’s new leadership. The HTS, while managing to quell fears of extensive retribution against former regime supporters, is closely monitored due to ongoing tensions within the region, particularly involving Kurdish populations and Turkish-backed groups.
Further complicating the situation, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the importance of a Syrian-led political process aimed at preserving human rights during discussions with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. Concurrent with these political developments, protests in northeastern Syria have seen hundreds rallying for women’s rights, expressing concerns over potential Islamist extremism within the new regime. Participants articulated their fears that the new leadership might not prioritize gender equality.
The evolving political landscape in Syria has seen significant developments following the Syrian civil war. The recent establishment of the new Syrian government under HTS has prompted changes in diplomatic relations, particularly with neighboring Lebanon. The apprehension of prominent figures connected to the Assad regime demonstrates the ongoing tensions and upheaval as factions vie for power within Syria, while regional reactions indicate a shifting paradigm in relations with formerly isolated leaders. This unrest also affects civilian life, particularly regarding women’s rights and societal roles, as protests highlight the public’s concerns about the new government’s potential direction.
The suspension of consular services at Syria’s embassy in Lebanon signals both political tensions and changing relationships in the region. The handover of Syrian individuals, including former military personnel, indicates an ongoing struggle within Syrian society as HTS consolidates power amid skepticism about its governance. As new alliances form and internal dissent rises, particularly surrounding women’s rights, the future of Syria remains fraught with uncertainty and the potential for renewed conflict.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
