More Syrian refugees are crossing from Lebanon to return home following the toppling of the government of former president Bashar al-Assad by opposition forces.
The refugees, many of whom have spent years in exile, thronged the Masnaa border crossing on the Lebanon-Syria border on Wednesday, with many sharing their stories of displacement and separation with journalists at the scene.
"I was displaced 12 years ago, here in Lebanon. I never went to Syria, I was deprived of my civil rights, I did not carry a weapon and I was not a member of any party. I was arrested in 2011 at the Political Security Branch. I haven't seen my children for 12 years. I want to see them and visit Dignity Square in Sweden," said a Syrian man.
"About two years ago, I left Syria and went to Türkiye. I was a soldier and served for nine months, then defected and left. I went first to Idlib and from there to Türkiye. We are called refugees who have been humiliated," another Syrian refugee said.
"My feelings are indescribable, and I hope every Syrian will see their families soon. I want to see my parents whom I haven't seen for 14 years. I don't know my nephews. I'm going to go there and I won't recognize them. Because they were displaced to Idlib," said a female Syrian refugee.
Those leaving Lebanon only need a stamp from the Lebanese General Security to cross into Syria, with Syrian border posts standing unmanned.
However, severe congestion at the Lebanese General Security Center slowed Syrians from entering Lebanon. According to testimonies from Syrians entering Lebanon, Lebanese border guards were tightening restrictions for those entering Lebanon while facilitating departures from Lebanon.
More Syrians return home from Lebanon
