Lebanon’s former Prime Minister Fouad Siniora has declared that the nation has been neglected by the global community amid ongoing turmoil. In a recent statement, he emphasized the pressing need for a renewed international effort to restore stability in Lebanon.
Siniora expressed his concerns over the current dire situation, stating, “We are now facing a critical moment that demands genuine efforts both locally and on the international stage.”
He criticized the repercussions of inaction, warning that the lack of response could lead to severe consequences. “This is occurring while the American administration is preoccupied with elections,” he added.
Highlighting the political stalemate within Lebanon, Siniora noted the difficulty in electing a president, particularly due to Hezbollah’s insistence on a candidate aligned with their interests.
The last significant conflict between Lebanon and Israel nearly 20 years ago was initiated by Hezbollah’s border incursion, leading to a prolonged military engagement. Siniora recalled how, at that time, his government took a firm stance denying prior knowledge of Hezbollah’s actions, unlike current leaders who he believes have failed to maintain a clear separation from such groups.
Siniora forcefully criticized the Hezbollah’s dominance, stating, “Lebanon’s sovereignty has effectively been compromised.” He argued that Hezbollah, backed by Iran, has shifted its focus inward, causing instability within Lebanon while also extending its influence in regional conflicts.
As a significant architect of UN resolution 1701, which aimed to conclude the 2006 war, Siniora pointed out that the subsequent failure to establish a demilitarized zone in southern Lebanon allowed Hezbollah’s military presence to persist, complicating Lebanon’s political landscape.
With the Lebanese political framework currently operating under caretaker leadership since the 2022 elections, the absence of a functioning government has exacerbated Hezbollah’s influence. There remains unresolved contention over presidential succession following the expiration of President Michel Aoun’s term nearly two years ago, leading to widespread public disillusionment with leadership.
In light of the active conflict in Gaza, Siniora underscored the necessity of keeping Lebanon’s issues separate from this ongoing crisis. He criticized calls for simultaneous ceasefires, asserting that Lebanon should refrain from becoming entangled in this complex situation for its own stability.
“Considering the vast humanitarian toll in Gaza, continuing to associate Lebanon’s fate with these events is not prudent,” Siniora asserted, calling for careful consideration of Lebanon’s national interests.
