Lebanon, Syria Ceasefire Amid Border Clashes

A ceasefire has been agreed upon by the defense ministers of Syria and Lebanon following deadly border clashes that left at least 10 people dead and over 50 wounded. The conflict arose after Syria's new Islamist-led government accused Hezbollah of kidnapping and killing three Syrian soldiers, a claim Hezbollah denied. In retaliation, Syrian troops shelled Lebanese border towns, resulting in civilian casualties, including a child. The Lebanese government responded by ordering the army to counter any fire from Syria and to increase border security. Despite the ceasefire, tensions remain high due to the volatile situation following the toppling of Bashar al-Assad's regime by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) last year. Both countries have committed to maintaining military communications to prevent further violence.