Official statements from Lebanese or Syrian governments or credible news outlets

Syria Imposes Entry Restrictions on Lebanese Requiring Residency, Following Border Clash

Jan 3, 2025, 11:12 AM

The Syrian government has imposed entry restrictions on Lebanese citizens, allowing only those with Syrian residency documents to enter the country. This decision follows a border clash between the Lebanese army and Syrian armed groups, as reported by Lebanese security sources. The Lebanese army announced an engagement with Syrians at the border, resulting in an injury and a subsequent skirmish. Syrian authorities have begun enforcing this new policy, turning back Lebanese nationals without residency permits. The Lebanese Internal Security Forces have advised citizens against traveling to Syria due to these recent developments. Additionally, Syrian military operations have deployed reinforcements to the border with Lebanon to control the situation. There are indications that Syria might be imposing a reciprocal visa scheme on Lebanese citizens.