Syria 's conflict has spilled into Lebanon , where clashes killed 9 in Tripoli and Beirut . Lebanon strongly influenced by Syria both politically and militarily since independence in 1943 . Prime Minister Mikati 's alliance is a firm , if quiet , supporter of the Assad regime , but the government is more interested in keeping Lebanon from getting dragged into the conflict , says Middle East expert Chris Phillips of Queen Mary , University of London . There is evidence Syrian rebels are using arms smuggled across the Lebanese border . Many believe Syria 's regime is stirring up unrest in Lebanon to distract from their own conflict .
Syria 's conflict has spilled into Lebanon , where clashes killed 9 in Tripoli and Beirut . Lebanon strongly influenced by Syria both politically and militarily since independence in 1943 . There is evidence Syrian rebels are using arms smuggled across the Lebanese border . Many believe Syria 's regime is stirring up unrest in Lebanon to distract from their own conflict .