Lebanon imposes new limits at Syrian border, prompts U.N. concern

Overwhelmed by a massive influx of desperate refugees, Lebanon began imposing unprecedented visa restrictions on Syrians on Monday, including those fleeing their country’s civil war. The influx is believed to have increased Lebanon’s population by as much as a third, straining its resources, while international efforts to assist countries hosting Syrian refugees have fallen far short of their stated fundraising goals. Aid agencies, however, are voicing concern that the unprecedented border restrictions will prevent endangered Syrians from escaping the war-torn country. The United Nations refugee agency UNHCR called on the government to clarify the role of refugees under the new legislation.

Our concern is that there is no mention of refugees in these new regulations. We’d like some information on exactly how the procedure will be carried out to ensure the most vulnerable can still get in.

Ron Redmond, spokesman for the UNHCR

Traditionally, Syrians only required an identification card to enter Lebanon. But as of Monday, all Syrian visitors will have to apply for one of six different visas. Visa applicants will have to provide a valid passport and accompanying material proving that they have valid reasons for entering Lebanon, such as sponsorship by employers, hotel reservations, or admission letters from school. Redmond said the agency understands the government’s reasons for the rules but would work with Lebanon to ensure “refugees aren’t being pushed back into situations where their lives are in danger.”

We will not expel anyone and there will be humanitarian exceptions … But it’s high time to regulate the issue of Syrians entering Lebanon.

Khalil Jebara, adviser to Lebanon’s interior minister

Middle East