White House fears a coup in Lebanon

Posted By James Forsyth Wednesday, November 1, 2006 - 2:46 PM Share

Support for a sovereign, democratic, and prosperous Lebanon is a key element of U.S. policy in the Middle East. We are therefore increasingly concerned by mounting evidence that the Syrian and Iranian governments, Hizballah, and their Lebanese allies are preparing plans to topple Lebanon's democratically-elected government led by Prime Minister Siniora."

The WH statement follows the anti-Syrian, Lebanese politician Walid Jumblatt's meetings with Cheney and Rice earlier this week. There are concerns that Hezbollah is planning a series of rallies in the coming days to put pressure on the government to increase its representation in the cabinet. On a related note, there are also fears about the pro-Syrian President Emile Lahoud's attempt to block the formation of an international tribunal to try those involved in the assassination of Rafik Hariri. The tribunal is seen as the best way to undercut Syrian influence in Lebanon.

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