Beirut: The Progressive Socialist Party (PSP) leader Walid Junblatt, whom some consider as a bell-weather of Lebanese political affairs, wrote a devastating column in his weekly PSP-affiliated Al Anba’ website in which he warned of possible “dangerous repercussions” that may result from recent anti-Saudi and anti-Arab Gulf remarks.
His pointed words targeted Hezbollah leaders’ ratcheted-up rhetoric against Gulf Cooperation Council States that took on unprecedented proportions after the launch of a military operation against Al Houthis in Yemen.
Such statements troubled Junblatt who feared that they “might have huge negative repercussions on the internal situation and the affairs of the Lebanese abroad, in the Gulf in general and specifically in Saudi Arabia, which has always stood by Lebanon and contributed to its reconstruction after all wars and conflicts.”
The PSP leader added that “this kingdom, which is known for its patience and non-interference in the affairs of other countries, was obliged to launch operation Storm of Resolve after the failure of all mediations and pleadings.”
Although few opposition figures emphasised the point, Junblatt underscored that Riyadh is “still calling for a political solution,” something that even Tehran welcomed.
“It is unacceptable that the Islamic Republic of Iran is expressing its desire for dialogue,” emphasised Junblatt, “while we in Lebanon are hearing remarks carrying hints about what the kingdom might suffer at the level of its domestic situations, security and stability.”
“Insults against its officials were unacceptable, urging all parties to “shun tense rhetoric and statements that contradict with this approach with national partnership, so that we can protect what’s left of Lebanon,” said Junblatt.
On Monday, Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah noted that “Saudi Arabia will suffer a major defeat” in Yemen “that will have an impact on its domestic situation and the entire region.”
