Playing sectarian game is dangerous

In Lebanon and Iraq lies the future of this region, analysts agree. But what sort of future? A question that should keep us all awake at night. Sectarian politics are taking shape in both countries, unfortunately with the support of some regional neighbours.

In Iraq, the alleged involvement of Iran and some Arab countries in arming rival factions makes it impossible for the government to rein in the spiralling violence or curb armed militias and death squads. In Lebanon, mass protests, led by Hezbollah and its ally Michel Aoun, continue against the government and threaten to plunge the country into the unknown.

However, according to Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak, the Lebanon demonstrations are motivated by sectarian politics. He hinted that Lebanese Shiites are out to topple the Sunni-led government. Thus, he warned, Egypt and perhaps Saudi Arabia might be forced to "intervene" to protect the beleaguered Fouad Siniora government.

There was a time when Arab states talked about inclusive societies, when leaders talked about citizens without having to label them according to their religious affiliations. Now, Arab societies are increasingly divided on sectarian lines. Ironically, the so-called secular regimes are fuelling such sentiments.

It is dangerous for influential states to deal with smaller ones based on sectarianism. Those who wish to help Iraq and Lebanon must promote unity, or must at least be a neutral broker, instead of being divisive and biased. In this regard, it was important for Saudi Arabia to dismiss the recent article written by a Saudi researcher that said Riyadh might interfere in Iraq to support, finance and arm the Sunnis if the American forces leave.

It is hoped other states in the region, Arab and non-Arab, follow the lead of Saudi Arabia and quit inciting and pitting communities against each other.