As Lebanon grapples with the politically sensitive issue of enforcing exclusive State control over weapons, security authorities are also confronting a renewed threat from extremist groups along the Lebanese-Syrian border.

A recently leaked army communication revealed that on August 10, intelligence indicated extremist elements based in Syrian territory adjacent to Lebanon were planning to abduct Lebanese Army personnel in the Bekaa and northern regions. The apparent goal was to swap the soldiers for Islamic detainees held in Lebanese prisons. The army instructed its units and intelligence branches to exercise maximum vigilance, enhance night-time security, and report any suspicious movements on both sides of the border.

Security sources told Al-Markazia that while the information in the document was accurate, the threat was not as severe as some reports suggested. Lebanese military and security agencies are closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with Syrian authorities.

The sources highlighted that a meeting between Lebanese and Syrian intelligence directors in Riyadh about 20 days ago focused specifically on these extremist threats, contrary to reports claiming the talks were centered solely on border demarcation. While border delineation was discussed, it was framed as a precautionary measure to reduce risk and avoid disputes, requiring coordination beyond the army, including other ministries and directorates, similar to the process used for maritime border delineation with Israel.

The primary danger stems from approximately 15,000 foreign mercenaries deployed along the northern border and the Shebaa Farms area, reportedly acting under the direction of regional powers rather than the new Syrian regime, which exerts no control over them. The resurgence of ISIS amid widespread instability in parts of Lebanon and Syria, combined with overlapping local, regional, and international security factors, further heightens the risk.

The sources stressed that these circumstances require continuous coordination between Lebanon and Syria through the joint military staff and rigorous border monitoring to prevent any attempts to destabilize the country or target Lebanese communities. Smuggling operations, which frequently escalate into security incidents, remain a persistent concern.

In response, the Lebanese Armed Forces have intensified security measures along the border and mobilized their forces to prevent any threats to public safety. Authorities urged the public not to exaggerate the danger and to allow security agencies to operate independently, warning against leaks, fabrications, or agendas unrelated to Lebanon’s national interest.