Caretaker Minister of Interior Bassam Mawlawi stressed on Thursday that “the protection of Syrian nationals lies in the application of the law,” reiterating that “Lebanon can no longer support the economic displacement” of Syrians.
At a meeting held at the Ministry to discuss Syrian displacement, Mawlawi said that “municipalities have a duty to apply the law,” and “the Army and security forces will ensure that security and order are maintained.”
He said, “the security commanders confirmed their readiness and the state’s readiness to maintain security and order on all Lebanese territories, and we emphasized in front of everyone the need to apply the law, and prevent sedition of any kind.”
Mawlawi also revealed that the meeting emphasized Lebanon’s adherence to laws and international treaties regarding the issue of Syrian displacement, stressing that “tensions and insecurity will not be allowed for any reason on Lebanese territory.”
Underlining firmness in applying the ministry’s circulars on displaced Syrians, Mawlawi rejected accusations that Lebanon is a racist country. “Laws must be enforced to preserve the nation. Circulars pertaining to housing, employment, transactions, and contracts are to be implemented to safeguard Syrian citizens. The Lebanese General Security is tasked with assessing the status of every Syrian present in Lebanon, while the Director General of General Security is responsible for analyzing data to determine which Syrians with security concerns may remain in Lebanon, while those without valid reasons for staying should not be permitted to remain,” Mawlawi added.
He also highlighted the role of municipalities in law enforcement pending accountability, and called for the cooperation of Lebanese citizens to achieve desired outcomes, warning that “disagreement would be detrimental.”
The interior minister was adamant that “self-security is firmly prohibited and efforts to prevent lawlessness were to be coordinated between governors, municipalities, and security agencies,” stressing that attacks on Syrians and any criminal activities against them is forbidden by law.
