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Syrian Refugees' Cross-Border Movements Gradually Stabilize

WHY IT MATTERS

The stabilization of cross-border movements may indicate a more secure environment for Syrian refugees, but persistent access constraints highlight the need for continued support and infrastructure development to facilitate their safe and efficient movement.

What happened

Following the ceasefire in Lebanon announced on 17 April 2026, cross-border movements from Lebanon into Syria have continually declined. The International Organization for Migration's Emergency Mobility Tracking and Cross Border Monitoring Situation Update reports that from 02 March to 07 September, 127,788 Syrian refugees arrived in Syria, with Syrian nationals accounting for the overwhelming majority. Flow monitoring at four assessed Syrian-Lebanese border crossings recorded 761,319 movements into Syria, with approximately 98% being Syrian nationals. The Arida border crossing remains closed due to technical works on the Lebanese side, causing access constraints for travellers. Key informants cited increased travel times and associated costs for those previously using Arida, who now have to rely on alternative crossings located further from Tartous Governorate. The situation remains fluid, and the International Organization for Migration continues to monitor developments.

PRIMARY SOURCES

Syrian Arab Republic — Emergency Mobility Tracking and Cross Border Monitoring Situation Update — Round 21 (07 September 2026)

ReliefWeb / original provider · International Organization for Migration · ReliefWeb aggregation; original provider terms apply; link and attribution to the named source required

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