A queue at the Masnaa border crossing on Jan. 3, 2025. (Credit: Hassan Jarrah/AFP)
Since Thursday evening, Lebanese nationals have been banned from entering Syria unless they hold a residence permit. The timing and scope of the decision are surprising, appearing to be primarily justified by security concerns, as the new Syrian government remains vulnerable. According to initial reports, the decision is based on the principle of reciprocity between the two countries. Read more Between Beirut and Damascus, a cautious resumption of dialogue is beginning to take shape "The border is closed to the Lebanese on our side," the spokesman for the new Syrian government confirmed to L'Orient-Le-Jour. However, he dismissed rumors of new entry conditions as "totally false," despite reports suggesting exemptions for those holding a hotel reservation and $2,000 in cash."We have no further details on this closure," said the...
Since Thursday evening, Lebanese nationals have been banned from entering Syria unless they hold a residence permit. The timing and scope of the decision are surprising, appearing to be primarily justified by security concerns, as the new Syrian government remains vulnerable. According to initial reports, the decision is based on the principle of reciprocity between the two countries. Read more Between Beirut and Damascus, a cautious resumption of dialogue is beginning to take shape "The border is closed to the Lebanese on our side," the spokesman for the new Syrian government confirmed to L'Orient-Le-Jour. However, he dismissed rumors of new entry conditions as "totally false," despite reports suggesting exemptions for those holding a hotel reservation and $2,000 in cash."We have no further details on this closure," said the...
