Salam and Jumblat discuss Sweida's clashes, call for restraint in Lebanon
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam discussed in a phone call Thursday with former Progressive Socialist Party leader Walid Jumblat the latest developments in Syria and reactions in Lebanon.
The two leaders stressed the importance of preserving Syria's unity under the Syrian state's umbrella, as well as the need for prudence and wisdom in Lebanon to avoid reactions that could create internal tensions.
The Prime Minister praised Jumblat's efforts to contain the situation in Lebanon, after sectarian tensions erupted in Lebanon Wednesday against the backdrop of Syria's events.
Druze protesters were seen in a video shared on social media insulting army troops in Dahr al-Baydar and accusing them of assaulting Druze clerics after the soldiers reopened a road the protesters had blocked in support of Sweida's Druze.
Another video showed Druze protesters attacking civilians in a car. The men in the car seemed to speak in Syrian but it was not known where the incident occurred. Media reports said the protesters assaulted Syrian workers, passersby and residents and obstructed Syrian vehicles in several parts of Lebanon, including in Kharayeb, South Lebanon, Qabr Shmoun and Sawfar.
Salam warned all Lebanese against strife and called on them to prioritize the national interest. He said he had contacted ministers and security officials to take all necessary measures to maintain citizens' security in various Lebanese regions and to strictly address any attempts that might threaten stability.
Progressive Socialist Party leader Taymour Jumblat condemned "the attacks on citizens on the roads, regardless of who they are," and also condemned the attacks on Lebanese army officers and personnel who are performing their national duty to maintain security and stability.
Druze spiritual leader in Lebanon Sheikh Sami Abi al-Mona also condemned the attacks on civilians and urged the Druze community not to assault Syrians.
Source: Naharnet
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