Lebanese Government Announces Its Intention to Review the Status of Syrians Residing on Its Territory

The Lebanese Deputy Prime Minister, Tarek Metri, stated that Lebanese authorities aim in the coming months to review the status of Syrians residing in Lebanon, including considering the possibility of revoking the “refugee” status for some if the reasons that previously granted this status no longer apply.

Metri pointed out, in statements to Al Arabiya channel, that the Lebanese Ministry of Labor will reconsider the conditions for granting work permits to Syrians, in line with those who wish to return voluntarily to Syria. Additionally, the status of all Syrians residing in the country will be reviewed later.

The official added that those who meet the legal requirements will be granted work permits and residency, while those who do not meet the criteria will be asked to leave Lebanon according to existing laws, without the use of force.

Last week, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) announced the voluntary return of about 300 Syrian refugees as part of a facilitated return program in cooperation with the Lebanese General Security Directorate and the International Organization for Migration.