In response to growing concerns, Lebanon’s caretaker Interior Minister, Bassam Mawlawi, has issued a stern warning about the dense and unregulated Syrian presence, citing it as a security threat to the country.
Mawlawi emphasized that Lebanon will not tolerate the haphazard settlement of Syrian refugees and vowed to determine their numbers within housing units. He stated, “We have directed not to organize any contracts for Syrians who do not possess legal documents.” This statement comes amid reports from local media outlets.
The Interior Minister made it clear that Lebanon will not allow what he referred to as “Syrian lawlessness” within the country’s borders. He also pointed out that many Syrian refugees have been involved in various criminal activities, exacerbating concerns over security.
Lebanon’s Ongoing Crisis:
Lebanon has been enduring one of the world’s worst financial crises since 2019. The local currency has lost nearly 100% of its value against the US dollar, leading to soaring poverty rates, unemployment, and emigration. Some municipalities in Lebanon have implemented measures, such as restricting the movement of Syrians at night or refusing to rent houses to them, in response to these challenges.
Additionally, these practices have spilled over into social media platforms, where calls to expel refugees, primarily driven by economic concerns, have gained traction. Some view this refugee influx as an economic burden rather than a response to security or humanitarian needs.
Lebanon’s response to the Syrian refugee crisis continues to evolve as the government grapples with balancing the humanitarian imperative with the country’s ongoing economic and security challenges.
Lebanon has been grappling with the complex issue of Syrian refugees, with their numbers reaching approximately two million. This humanitarian crisis has become a contentious topic in Lebanon, sparking political and social debates.
