Lebanon's caretaker prime minister, Najib Mikati, in a phone call on Friday with Syria's de facto ruler Ahmed al-Sharaa, discussed relations between the two countries, according to a statement from Mikati's office posted on X, and said that he received an invitation from Sharaa to visit Syria to discuss common files.
Sharaa also affirmed that Syrian authorities took the necessary measures to restore calm on the border between the two countries, the post on X said.
Lebanon's army said Friday that gunbattles erupted on the Lebanese-Syrian border when Syrians attempted to reopen an illegal border crossing using a bulldozer, wounding at least five Lebanese soldiers.
The Lebanese army said its personnel fired warning shots, prompting the Syrians to open fire, wounding one soldier. After the shooting, army units in the area implemented strict security measures and the episode was under investigation, the army said.
Later Friday, the Lebanese army said there were renewed exchanges of fire and four more army personnel were injured.
Meanwhile, Syria’s de facto leadership under the group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham announced new entry regulations for Lebanese citizens. Lebanese travelers must secure a residence permit or a Syrian sponsor and provide proof of funds worth $2,000 and a hotel booking. Previously, Lebanese citizens were allowed to enter with just a Lebanese ID card.
