In fact, the Syrian presence has brought peace and stability to that country for more than 20 years.

He took a moderate position toward the Syrian presence.

It took years to confront the Syrian presence.

After the civil war, there was increased pressure by Syria on Geagea to accept the Syrian presence or face charges.

There was increased pressure by Syria on Geagea to accept the Syrian presence or face charges.

Residents began to leave their bomb shelters as the Syrian presence quelled fighting.

Even some prominent critics of the Syrian presence, however, do not seek an abrupt departure.

As for the Syrian presence in Lebanon, her view is even more unvarnished: Syria needs to "get out," she said.

Nor are things clear with regard to the deeply entrenched Syrian presence in Lebanon.

Syrian presence is heaviest in mainly Muslim districts.