Israeli Airstrikes Disrupt Vital Border Crossings Between Syria and Lebanon
On December 6, 2024, the Arida border crossing between Syria and Lebanon was rendered inoperable following Israeli airstrikes targeting infrastructure in the region. The Syrian official news agency, SANA, reported significant damage to the bridge connecting the two countries, leading to the closure of this critical route. Lebanese Transport Minister Ali Hamieh confirmed that the Israeli attacks also impacted the Jose crossing in eastern Lebanon, causing severe infrastructural damage and halting traffic.
The Arida and Jose crossings are essential for access to the Syrian province of Homs, which is currently experiencing intense confrontations between the forces of President Bashar al-Assad and the armed Syrian opposition. The importance of these crossings has escalated amid the ongoing conflict, making their disruption particularly impactful.
Israeli Military Justifies Attacks as Security Measures
Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee stated that the strikes were aimed at centers and infrastructure used for transporting weapons near the Lebanese-Syrian border. He emphasized that these operations were part of Israel's broader strategy to undermine the capabilities of Hezbollah, specifically targeting what he referred to as
which is responsible for arming Hezbollah. The Israeli military has conducted additional strikes on Syrian military transport hubs, asserting that these actions are necessary to prevent threats to Israeli security.
The Arida crossing has a history of being targeted; it was previously destroyed during the last war on Lebanon and had only recently been rehabilitated. The recent attacks have once again closed this vital route, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region.
Escalating Violence Amid Fragile Ceasefire
The Israeli attacks occur against a backdrop of a fragile ceasefire agreement, which has reportedly been violated 141 times since its inception on November 27. These violations include artillery shelling, airstrikes, and incursions along the border. In retaliation, Hezbollah launched a missile attack on the Ruwaysat al-Alam area, marking a significant escalation since the ceasefire was established.
The ongoing violence has led to a humanitarian crisis in Lebanon, with over 4,047 fatalities and approximately 16,643 injuries reported, predominantly among women and children. Additionally, around 1.4 million people have been displaced, intensifying the pressure on the Lebanese government and the refugee population in border areas. Observers warn that the situation is deteriorating, with each cycle of violence worsening the humanitarian conditions for those affected.
