The collapse of Syria’s army has flooded the country with cheap firearms, with Lebanese gun dealers profiting by smuggling these weapons into Lebanon, according to security and political sources in Beirut.
“There is an abundance of guns in Syria being sold cheaply on the black market. An AK-47, for instance, costs around $25,” shared a security source.
These firearms are flooding the Lebanese market as dealers frequently travel to Syria to buy weapons and smuggle them across the border. The northern areas of Lebanon, in particular, are now brimming with these weapons.
The source added that approximately 3,000 firearms have already been smuggled into Lebanon through illegal border crossings, mainly in the north. “Most of these weapons are Chinese-made with Syrian flags printed on them. Dealers remove these marks and resell the guns in Lebanon for about $500 each,” the source explained.
A political source in Beirut confirmed the influx of firearms, calling it a “sudden flow” and warning that the government is aware and concerned about potential consequences. However, the Ministry of Interior has not responded to inquiries.
Swift Collapse of Syria’s Army
The Syrian army’s collapse has been unexpectedly rapid. In just 12 days, the Assad regime fell apart, leading to a significant power shift. Rebel groups are closing in on Damascus, prompting Lebanon to seal its land borders with Syria, except for one main crossing connecting Beirut and the Syrian capital. Despite this, illegal border crossings in the north remain active.
Hayat Tahrir Al Sham, the rebel faction behind the overthrow of Bashar Al Assad, has gained control of key border points with Lebanon and Jordan. Witnesses and rebel commanders report their consolidation of power in Syria.
Rising Tensions in Lebanon
Lebanon has long grappled with the widespread presence of firearms, a legacy of its civil war from 1975 to 1990. Many groups, including Hezbollah, remain heavily armed. Recent developments have added to security concerns, with almost every armed faction in Lebanon reportedly purchasing smuggled weapons.
A security source highlighted fears of escalating tensions. “Armed groups are capitalizing on smuggled firearms, increasing the risk of internal conflicts,” the source said.
Hezbollah, weakened by its prolonged conflict with Israel, faces potential challenges to its dominance. US officials who mediated last year’s ceasefire have expressed concerns about the possibility of civil unrest.
Historical Syrian Influence in Lebanon
Lebanese politicians are closely watching Syria’s collapse, recalling its historical occupation and influence. Syria invaded Lebanon in 1976, maintaining control for nearly 30 years before withdrawing in 2005. During that time, the Syrian regime heavily influenced Lebanese politics, awarding key positions to allies and intimidating opponents.
“The situation is alarming. Internal strife seems inevitable,” said another Lebanese security official. Some security heads overseeing border crossings have been replaced to prevent complications.
While there is no official confirmation of Syrian regime officials relocating to Lebanon, the possibility remains open. “It’s not entirely impossible that some may be here,” the source concluded.
The sudden surge of smuggled firearms and Syria’s collapse have created a volatile situation, leaving Lebanon on high alert as it navigates the fallout of its neighbor’s unrest.
