On April 26, 2005, the last Syrian troops crossed back into their own country, marking a significant shift in regional politics. Prior to this, Syria had maintained a military garrison of around 14,000 soldiers since 1976.
The withdrawal followed intense international pressure and domestic protests, including Lebanon's Cedar Revolution which began in February that year following the assassination of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri.
Often overlooked is how this event reshaped Middle Eastern geopolitics by weakening Syrian influence over its neighbor. The departure marked a turning point for Lebanon's sovereignty and self-determination, though it did not end political tensions or security challenges between the two nations.