Lebanon’s delicate hour

Beirut is confused and is on the edge and Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati has spelt out his agenda. His decision to continue in office despite criticism for being an ally of Hezbollah, which is pro-Bashar Al Assad, is quite meaningful.

Published: Mon 22 Oct 2012, 8:39 PM

Last updated: Fri 3 Apr 2015, 12:53 AM

Apparently, he wants to save Lebanon from plunging into a crisis of governance at this critical juncture and avoid a power vacuum that could only stimulate the ongoing crisis. His resolve to bring to book the culprits that killed his top security sleuth will determine how Lebanon comes out of this difficult hour. His actions will closely be watched by opposition elements, especially the March 14 alliance of Saad Hariri, which has already expressed its no confidence in the dispensation in Beirut for allegedly having a soft corner for the Damascus regime. Mikati has a responsibility to deliver and that too on two counts: save Lebanon from political instability by avoiding a civil war that is knocking at its doorstep and take measures to minimise Syrian influence in the country.

Lebanon, which is rightly termed as the nerve of the Middle East, is in a fix as the civil strife in neighbouring Syria is directly impacting its security and demographic balance. Being a melting pot for different communities and religions, Lebanon’s political fabric, especially its constitutional arrangement, has weathered every kind of storm. But now, in the wake of Syria unravelling, it is very difficult to estimate how the resultant fissures can be dealt with. This is a delicate moment for the Lebanese and all that they need to ensure is to avoid warfare from overwhelming their sense of resilience.

The United Nations and the regional organisations, especially the Arab League, can’t afford to sit on the fringes at this juncture. An instant mediation is indispensable. Lebanon and Syria should talk it out, and chart out a roadmap to uphold peace and tranquility. It is quite unfortunate that Damascus hasn’t come out with a proper rejoinder to the upheavals in Lebanon, and especially on the murder of Wissam Al Hassan. This could serve as adding fuel to fire. It is incumbent upon Damascus to respond to the mess in Lebanon and make its position clear. Syria should have no business other than putting its own house in order. Its extra-territorial meddling has already cost the region too dearly.