Lebanon rejects Syrian claims of harbouring opposition

The Lebanese government has dismissed threats made by the Syrian Foreign Ministry that it will bomb “armed gangs” operating inside Lebanon along its border with Syria. According to informed sources, Syria’s Foreign Ministry sent a letter to the Lebanese government threatening action on what it claims are "gatherings of armed gangs" from Syria’s opposition, who are working inside Lebanon. However, Lebonan disputed the claims, saying that the only know Syrian dissident officer, Mohammed Tlas, was expelled from the country months ago. In a statement released today, Fouad Siniora, the head of Lebanon’s Future Party, condemned the Syrian Foreign Ministry for its “rude” letter which poses a “public threat” to Lebanon. “We have repeatedly spoken out against the use of the Lebanese border, as a platform for intervention in the Syrian affairs. The Lebanese government is now required to submit clear and explicit answers to the Syrian accusations, and to prevent the use of Lebanese territories a springboard for military actions,” said Siniora. “The threats made by the Syrian Foreign Ministry against Lebanon have been rejected, but it does suggest that the decision to attack Lebanon has already been taken,” he added. Siniora warned Syria of the consequences of attacking Lebanon, and called on the Lebanese government to act immediately and in coordination with the Secretary-General of the Arab League, as well as the UN. Meanwhile, other politicians in Lebanon have called for more severe measures. Chairman of the Lebanese Forces Party, Samir Geagea, urged the government to deploy the army to the Lebanon – Syria border to ensure its protection. "The situation at the Lebanon - Syria border is worrying, especially after these latest threats" said Geagea, adding "if army numbers and ammunition are not sufficient, the government should demand the Security Council to the law to extend support from the international forces, and assist the military in protecting the north-eastern borders." Geagea warned that "government reluctance to intervene will expose border areas as in imminent danger. “We have seen some of these dangers in the past two years, and they are poised to escalate into full deterioration," he added.