Arab leaders committed to Lebanon unity

Lebanon's future was at the centre of a very senior meeting among regional players. That King Abdullah Bin Abdul Aziz of Saudi Arabia and Syrian President Bashar Al Assad chose to meet in Lebanon on Friday, as part of King Abdullah's trip to four Arab countries, was hugely symbolic. It showed the serious commitment of both countries to the well-being and stability of Lebanon. It also demonstrated the urgency of the situation and a realisation that dangers lie ahead for the country.

This has been brought about by the upcoming release of results of the UN inquiry into the assassination of former Lebanese prime minister Rafik Hariri, whereby Hezbollah members will be implicated. Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah has complained that the tribunal is ‘biased' and many have warned of a possible return to sectarianism and an outbreak of violence. Another major point of contention is the ‘Israeli influence' on this investigation with Hezbollah calling it ‘an Israeli project' aimed at targeting Lebanese resistance. The fact that Saudi Arabia and Syria, which seem to be enjoying a diplomatic thaw, support opposing forces in Lebanon, Sa'ad Hariri and Hezbollah respectively, gives more credibility to their message for unity and marks their return as the mediators of Lebanese politics.

The main thing to have come out of this meeting is that all players involved, both Lebanese and regional, are aware of the risks associated with the release of the UN investigation and there is a serious attempt to defuse tensions and control the situation between now and the first releases in September. This was a much needed step in the right direction but come September, Lebanon may need more than a few words of encouragement to maintain calm and stability. As Prime Minister, Sa'ad Hariri must avoid any statement or action that could see the return of violence to Lebanon.