Syria, Lebanon sign border security agreement in Saudi Arabia

The defense ministers of Syria and Lebanon signed a strategic agreement on border security during a meeting held Thursday in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, according to the official Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

The agreement aims to enhance cooperation between the two neighboring countries in response to recent tensions and deadly clashes along their shared border.

The meeting, led by Syrian Defense Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra and his Lebanese counterpart Michel Menassa, was also attended by Saudi Defense Minister Khalid bin Salman.

Agreement addresses border demarcation and security mechanisms

SPA reported that the ministers signed an agreement concerning “the strategic importance of border demarcation,” as well as the formation of Syrian-Lebanese legal and specialized committees.

The accord also includes the activation of coordination mechanisms to address “security and military threats,” particularly along the border.

The deal follows a series of events earlier this month that escalated tensions between the two countries, resulting in multiple fatalities. A planned visit by Minister Menassa to Damascus on March 26 was postponed at Syria’s request.

Syrian sources cited preparations for a new government, while Lebanese officials stressed the delay was not linked to the recent unrest.

Clashes at Syria-Lebanon border preceded talks

Border violence erupted in mid-March when Syria accused Lebanese armed group Hezbollah of abducting and executing three Syrian soldiers after an ambush. Hezbollah denied involvement.

The incident led to cross-border exchanges of fire, including rocket and artillery shelling, killing at least 10 people, including seven in Lebanon.

The two defense ministers held a phone call on March 17 and agreed to de-escalate tensions and enforce a ceasefire.

The agreement signed in Jeddah formalizes ongoing efforts to stabilize the border region and prevent future incidents.