Lebanese authorities are preparing for visits from Syrian officials to address the situation of former regime figures thought to be taking refuge in Lebanon, government sources told The National.

Media reports have revealed that high-ranking military and security officers, along with diplomats, fled Syria for Lebanon during the final stages of Bashar al-Assad’s regime.

Lebanese security forces have reportedly deported officers and soldiers who crossed the border illegally, sources in Beirut said. However, Syrian authorities say a number of former regime figures remain under the protection of local allies, raising concerns in Damascus.

 Yet Syrian authorities allege that a number of regime-affiliated figures remain under protection from local allies, raising concerns in Damascus.

“Recently, the Syrians have been pressing the Lebanese authorities over the presence of some 200 former regime figures in the country, including army officers and soldiers, traders, businessmen and others,” a security official in Beirut told The National. 

“The Syrians have warned the Lebanese authorities that these individuals could form gangs and pose a threat to Syria’s stability. Visits by Syrian officials are expected soon to discuss the matter,” the official added.