Lebanese forces fire at Syria jets

Lebanese forces have fired on Syrian aircraft that violated the country’s airspace, security officials said.

It was the first time since the outbreak of Syria’s conflict three years ago that the Lebanese military had taken action to prevent Syrian warplanes from violating its airspace.

Syrian forces have fired towards Lebanon in the past, trying to deter rebels from fleeing to the neighbouring country or from sheltering in Lebanese border towns.

The Lebanese military opened anti-aircraft fire at two Syrian warplanes after the aircraft bombed a border area close to the eastern Lebanese town of Arsal, officials said.

There was no immediate comment from the Lebanese military or the Syrian government.

Agencies