WAM ABU DHABI: It is imperative that the situation in Lebanon is prevented from further escalation, a major paper demanded today on the current situation in Lebanon.

Warning against a spillover of the conflict in Syria and the danger of extending beyond its geographical location, the English language Gulf News said the country (Lebanon) is not in a position to be a victim of any level of disturbance, let alone violence.

"The fragility of the country makes it possible that the conflict in Syria could turn into a regional war. Such a prospect should be prevented as the result of such a confrontation would be costly for all those involved," the Gulf News said in an editorial comment on the abduction recently of Syrians in Lebanon.

On Wednesday, more than 30 Syrians were abducted in Lebanon and the captors called it revenge for the kidnapping of a relative inside Syria. The Shiite family that had captured the Syrians threatened in a video to cause chaos in the streets and expand its list of abductees.

The recent incident in Lebanon raised the alarm with regards to the recent developments in Syria as it clearly indicates a spillover, according to the paper.

"Conflict does not recognize boundaries, religious or sectarian sensitivities, or the cost a nation pays in the ordeal. The current conflict in Syria is one that is extremely complex as many variables are all intertwined. Hence, it is critical that what is taking place in Syria does not spill over its borders." The paper noted that it is a known fact, even by Lebanon itself, that any party can take advantage of the situation's vulnerability.

WAM/MMYS