Rebels seize two checkpoints near border village with Lebanon

Rebel Free Syrian Army seized Saturday two checkpoints near border village with Lebanon after ambushing forces loyal to Basher al-Assad and its backed militia Hezbollah, leaving 15 soldiers dead, Zaman Alwasl source said.

The one-week skirmishes have taken place near Al Jouciya, a neighboring village to Qusayr city, where 6 rebel units have united to retake border villages from Assad’s army control after months since the famous Qusayr battle, in June 2013,  ended by bitter victory for Assad forces with direct assistance from Hezbollah militants.

Rebel sources said the Lebanese Army checkpoint opened fire on FSA rebels with no casualties.  Field commander said, "We did not retaliate over concerns related to Syrian refugees in Arsal.