Lebanese General Security is set to issue exceptional one-month entry permits to residents of the Syrian towns of Jaramana and Sahnaya, sources told An-Nahar newspaper on Friday. The decision comes as part of ongoing security coordination between Lebanon and Syria amid escalating tensions in southern Syria.
The permits will allow residents of the two towns to temporarily enter Lebanon, a move described as both a humanitarian gesture and a response to security concerns. This decision is expected to coincide with a policy under consideration that would waive the current border fee of LBP 4 million for Druze and Alawite Syrians entering Lebanon, effective for a limited period due to recent developments.
The decision follows violent clashes between Syrian General Security Forces and armed Druze fighters in Sahnaya, which led to widespread fear and significant property damage.
Syrian state media reported that an agreement had been reached in Jaramana between Syrian government officials and local leaders. According to Lieutenant Colonel Hussam al-Tahhan, Director of the Damascus Countryside Security Directorate, the agreement includes the immediate surrender of heavy weapons by local groups and an increased deployment of Syrian General Security forces to restore order.
The goal of the agreement is reportedly to stabilize Jaramana, a suburb of Damascus with a complex social fabric and a history of security challenges, while facilitating the return to normal life in the area.
The coordination between Lebanese and Syrian authorities reflects a broader effort to manage the movement of people across the border and address the evolving security and political realities in southern Syria. However, Lebanese authorities have not yet provided details on when the new entry procedures will take effect.
Joumblatt Visits Al-Sharaa
Amidst the escalating tensions, Former Progressive Socialist Party leader Walid Joumblatt headed to Damascus on Friday afternoon to discuss the recent developments with President Ahmad al-Sharaa at the People’s Palace.
Joumblatt reportedly concluded his talks with Al-sharaa without making an official statement.
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