Arabic dailies differ on Lebanon
Arabic newspapers have reacted differently on the surprise and dramatic resignation of Lebanese government after a stormy parliamentary session dedicated for the discussion of the killing of former prime minister Rafiq al-Hariri.
While some warned on Tuesday that the incident has plunged the country in political uncertainty that may have negative consequences on both Lebanon and Syria, others have chosen to reflect on the issue with calls on the pull-out of Syrian troops from Lebanon.
In its editorial, the London-based daily al Hayat urged Arab governments for a quick act to preserve Lebanon-Syria co-existence, and save them from foreign intervention.
“The dangerous fall-out targeting the unity of Lebanon can not wait until Arab summit is held in Algeria next March. Tunisia – the previous rotating president of the Arab summit -the current president Algeria, the Arab League secretary general, Syria and Lebanon should work together to seek a quick end to the speedy developments that mar the Syrian-Lebanese relations.
“If a settlement is reached, it will make US pressure unjustified and will stop some from claiming the UN Security Council liberation of Lebanon from Syria.
“On the contrary, if Syria affirms that Shabaa farms belong to Lebanon, this will give the right to the Arab world to call for an Israeli withdrawal from the area in accordance with resolution 1559, which stipulates the pull-out of foreign forces,” Al Hayat concluded.
Danger of civil war
Asharq al-Awsat, another major daily, also based in London, has warned from the eruption of a new civil war in Lebanon, and blamed the Lebanese opposition for the deteriorating situation.
“Political assassination may cause catastrophes, but societies should remain in control of their destiny. It is not in defence of Syria, Lahud or Umar Karami to say that Lebanese opposition will put Lebanon in major danger if it proceeds with its current political march.
“It is true to say it is unlikely to witness a new civil war in Lebanon because Lebanese people have learned the lesson from 15 years of suffering.
“But calling for regional and international interference, which reached the extent of demanding armed European or American mandate, will certainly keep the danger of civil war looming.”
Time for change
The Lebanese English newspaper Daily Star, however, captured the spectrum of the opposition reaction and reminded Syria that it was time for change.
“For the promise of this new beginning to be fulfilled, Hizb Allah must join the opposition – the presence of this major Lebanese sociopolitical force in a transitional government is vital for the continuing development of the democratic process that should come to fruition with the elections scheduled for May.
“And Syria should consider what is happening in a sober manner and not thwart the ideals demonstrated by Lebanon’s youth: It is, indeed, the time for change.” The paper concluded.