Charbel Considers Security Situation in Tripoli 'Priority', Says Security Forces to Maintain Stability

Caretaker Interior Minister Marwan Charbel stressed on Monday that the Internal Security Forces and the Lebanese army will enter the northern city of Tripoli and take its role in maintaining the city's security and stability.

He pointed out in comments published in As Safir newspaper that the security situation in Tripoli “is a priority.”

“We will not raid any areas but we will detain those who are wanted if they passed on checkpoints,” Charbel told the newspaper.

Charbel reiterated calls on the residents of Tripoli to support the Lebanese army.

On Saturday the caretaker Minister launched stage-two of a security plan to be implemented in the inflamed city of Tripoli that has been witnessing frequent Syria-linked battles, that pits Sunnis from Bab al-Tabbaneh against Alawites in Jabal Mohsen.

However, hours after Charbel's conference clashes flared up between gunmen and a security checkpoint in the Old Saraya vicinity in Tripoli, marring stage-two of the security plan.

Most Sunnis support Syria's revolt against President Bashar Assad, while Alawites, who belong to the same Shiite-offshoot sect as Assad, support his regime.

The latest fighting ended when the army deployed along Syria Street, which separates the two districts and acts as the makeshift frontline.

Tripoli suffered horrific car bomb explosions near two mosques in August, killing 45 people.