Lebanon's caretaker Interior Minister Bassam Mawlawi at a press conference in Beirut on May 16, 2022. (Credit: Louai Bechara/AFP)
Lebanon's caretaker Interior Minister Bassam Mawlawi announced Tuesday that nine Lebanese detainees previously held in Syrian prisons have returned to Lebanon following the collapse of Syrian President Bashar Assad's regime.
The rebel offensive launched about 10 days ago led to the release of hundreds of prisoners in several Syrian cities, including Lebanese nationals.
"Nine Lebanese detainees in Syrian prisons have arrived in Lebanon," Mawlawi said during a press conference following a meeting of the Central Security Council. He noted that the ministry is working to compile data and provide necessary information regarding those still missing in Syria. Mawlawi also assured that "no security officials from the former Syrian regime wanted by Lebanese justice are currently in Lebanon." He clarified that while some Syrian families are in Lebanon, there are "no restrictions, rulings, or judicial measures against them."
Mawlawi described Lebanon's security situation as "acceptable and stable," emphasizing that "there are no concerning movements into the country." He noted that such movements are "closely monitored by all security agencies."
He added that "strict measures are being implemented to prevent unauthorized entries into Lebanon," announcing the establishment of a new checkpoint by the army and General Security at the Masnaa border crossing. "Only individuals legally residing in Lebanon, holding a foreign passport, or possessing a foreign residence permit are allowed entry. Those with a confirmed airline ticket may enter the country in transit," he explained.
Mikati takes action
Earlier in the day, the office of caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati issued a statement affirming that he is closely monitoring reports about the entry or transit of former Syrian officials into Lebanon.
According to the statement, Mikati has been in contact with Justice Minister Henri Khoury, Public Prosecutor at the Court of Cassation Jamal Hajjar, and acting General Security Chief Elias Baissari regarding the matter. He has "issued directives to ensure the issue complies with existing laws and regulations, under the supervision of competent judicial authorities, in the interest of Lebanon, its people, and the future of relations with the Syrian people."
The issue of Lebanese detainees missing in Syria remains highly controversial, as Syrian officials have consistently denied their presence in Syrian prisons. Meanwhile, Lebanon's efforts to address the matter have fallen short of the necessary minimum to uncover the truth.
