Syrian special forces join in farewell ceremony

Syrian special forces joined Lebanese troops today at a Lebanese air base near the Syrian border, and shouted “long live Bashar!” in homage to the Syrian leader, as they prepared for a farewell ceremony marking the end of Syria’s 29-year military involvement with its smaller neighbour.

The soldiers in red berets and camouflage, the last Syrian troops remaining in Lebanon, were to participate in the ceremony later today at a Lebanese army air base at Rayak, a few miles from the Syrian border. Their departure comes after heavy Lebanese and international pressure.