Los Angeles Times: Prime Minister’s Disappearance in Lebanon

Even the most fragmented, polarized nations tend to unite when external powers interfere in bullying ways. Such is the case of Lebanon and Saudi Arabia. Lebanon’s population is 6 million, Saudi Arabia’s is 32 million and the crisis for the smaller country is an extension of the war for regional influence between Saudi Arabia and Iran. Lebanon’s citizens worry about Prime Minister Saad Hariri who abruptly offered his resignation, possibly under duress, during a visit to Saudi Arabia. He may be held in detention. “Insulting the head of Lebanon’s government is an insult to every Lebanese, even if we disagree with him in politics,” said political rival Hassan Nasrallah, who heads Shiite party Hezbollah. Saudi Arabia backed Hariri’s party; Iran backs Hezbollah. Lebanon’s prime minister may have been caught up in a corruption crackdown orchestrated by Saudi Arabia’s crown prince. Or, cooperation in Lebanon may have upset Saudi leaders. “The crisis has come at a time of relative stability in Lebanon, with the national unity government broadly seen as a success,” notes Nabih Bulos for the Los Angeles Times. “There is a growing sense of anger in Lebanon.” – YaleGlobal