Clashes escalate on Syrian-Lebanese border, civilian casualties reported

Fighting has erupted on the Syrian-Lebanese border, involving Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and the Lebanese army. Late on Sunday, HTS launched rockets and heavy shelling into Lebanese border towns, prompting a response from Lebanese forces. Reports indicate that the Bekaa Valley was shelled for three hours, with rockets fired from the Syrian side. Drones were also launched into Lebanon during these attacks. Casualties have been reported on the Lebanese side, including at least one child. The violence escalated after the discovery of three HTS fighters' bodies in Lebanon. These fighters were allegedly kidnapped by Hezbollah and executed. Additionally, two Lebanese youths were reportedly killed after being abducted by Syrian security forces. The Lebanese army confirmed that they have been responding to fire from the Syrian side and have increased security measures. Communication continues between Lebanese and Syrian military officials to stabilize the region. This renewed conflict comes just over a month after previous clashes occurred between Syrian forces and Lebanese tribesmen. That fighting had quelled after an agreement between the Lebanese army and local tribes.