Israel recently bombed the highway near Lebanon’s Masnaa border crossing with Syria, causing a complete halt to traffic on this vital artery. This action has forced hundreds of people trying to leave Lebanon by car to continue their journey on foot, as reported by the UN. Lebanon’s Transport Minister Ali Hamieh accused Israel of imposing an “unannounced siege” on the country, affecting both land and air travel.
The attack occurred after the Israeli army claimed the crossing was being used by Hezbollah to smuggle weapons. Additionally, Israel threatened to prevent hostile aircraft from landing at Beirut’s civilian airport, escalating tensions further.
Middle Eastern politics expert Imad Salamey explained that Israel aimed to disrupt key supply lines between Syria and Lebanon, used to support Hezbollah. With Israel now controlling much of Lebanon’s access to the outside world, the situation has raised human rights concerns and hindered civilian and commercial transit.
While not technically a blockade, Lebanon’s land routes remain paralyzed, impacting Syrians fleeing conflict. This leaves vulnerable refugees at risk and escalates tensions in the region.