Syria says it has reinforced its borders with Lebanon and Iraq, deploying thousands of troops and rocket units as conflict spreads across the region.
In a statement Wednesday, Syria’s Defence Ministry said the move is aimed at “protecting and controlling the borders” amid escalating tensions, including renewed clashes between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Military and security sources in both Syria and Lebanon say the buildup includes infantry, armoured vehicles, and short-range Grad and Katyusha rocket launchers. Units from Syria’s 52nd and 84th Divisions have expanded their presence in western Homs and south of Tartus.
Officials insist the deployment is defensive — focused on preventing arms and drug smuggling and blocking militants, including Iran-backed Hezbollah, from infiltrating Syrian territory. Damascus says it has no plans to attack neighbours but is prepared to respond to any threat.
The move comes as Israel orders evacuations across southern Lebanon and intensifies airstrikes, displacing tens of thousands. Lebanese officials say Syria has described the rocket placements near the eastern mountain border as a precaution against any spillover from Hezbollah’s operations.
With cross-border tensions mounting, regional anxieties are rising over the risk of a wider conflict.
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