Syria’s Embassy in Lebanon Suspends Services Amid Political Turmoil

Syria’s embassy in Lebanon suspended services after relatives of Bashar Assad were arrested for allegedly using forged passports. Concurrently, 70 Syrians, including former military officers, were handed over by Lebanese authorities to Syria’s new government led by Ahmad al-Sharaa. The situation highlights ongoing regional political tensions and concerns about women’s rights under the new regime.

Syria’s embassy in Lebanon has temporarily halted consular services following the arrest of two relatives of deposed President Bashar Assad at Beirut’s airport for allegedly possessing forged passports. On the same day, Lebanese authorities transferred 70 Syrians, including former Syrian army officers, to the newly established government in Syria, led by Ahmat al-Sharaa, previously known as Abu Mohammed al-Golani. The suspension of services, as announced via the embassy’s Facebook page, is attributed to a belief that the forged passports originated from the embassy itself. Meanwhile, diplomatic ties are being re-established with the new Syrian authorities as regional officials from Libya and Bahrain visit Damascus. Independent reports indicate rising tensions and skirmishes involving the new government’s security forces and pro-Assad groups, suggesting ongoing unrest in the region, particularly regarding the Kurdish population’s apprehensions during this transition.

The article outlines the political climate in Syria following the shift in power dynamics after an insurgent group known as Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) has taken control. It elaborates on the aftermath of the Lebanese government’s actions, transferring former Syrian officials and the implications of these developments on Syrian diplomatic relations with Lebanon and other countries. Additionally, the narrative touches upon societal reactions regarding women’s rights in the context of the new ruling authority and the persistent inter-group conflicts, particularly with the Kurdish factions. These developments are viewed against a backdrop of heightened security measures and diplomatic engagements amid a complex geopolitical landscape involving Turkey and the United States.

In summary, the situation in Syria remains volatile following the suspension of consular services at its embassy in Lebanon amidst allegations of passport forgery involving Assad family members. The handover of former Syrian officers underscores the increasing assertiveness of HTS as it navigates regional politics, which has sparked concerns regarding societal rights, primarily addressing women’s rights. As regional countries form new alliances with Syria, the precarious balance of power continues to be of critical importance in shaping the future stability of the region.

Original Source: apnews.com