Saad Hariri Announces Political Comeback in Lebanon
Saad Hariri, former Lebanese Prime Minister, announced his return to politics on February 14, 2025, during a rally commemorating his father’s assassination. He will revive his Future Movement party and engage in upcoming elections, aiming to promote state authority, Arab partnerships, and support for reform initiatives. His return is seen as a response to regional shifts and an effort to stabilize Lebanon amidst ongoing challenges.
On February 14, 2025, in Beirut’s Martyrs’ Square, former Prime Minister Saad Hariri announced his return to Lebanese politics. He revealed plans to revive his Future Movement party and participate in upcoming elections, a significant shift from his 2022 decision to withdraw from political life. The announcement coincided with a rally marking the 20th anniversary of his father, Rafik Hariri’s assassination, where Saad Hariri emphasized the need for unity and reform in Lebanon.
During his speech, Hariri highlighted his intention to assist in rebuilding Lebanon by fostering state authority, strengthening Arab partnerships, and promoting peace. He expressed support for the current leadership, including President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam’s reform initiatives. This revival aims to address the challenges posed by Iran’s influence and institutional challenges faced by Lebanon.
Hariri framed his political comeback as a response to recent regional developments, particularly Syria’s anticipated leadership change in 2024. He advocated for stable relations with Syria and criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for hindering peace and sustaining occupation. Hariri reaffirmed his commitment to UN Resolution 1701, which mandates Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territories.
Urging Hezbollah strongholds to accept military-led security by the Lebanese army, Hariri stated, “Only the army can protect all Lebanese.” The rally served not only as a commemoration of his father’s death but also as a platform for Hariri to reconnect with his supporters and redefine his political narrative in the evolving landscape of Lebanese and regional politics.
Saad Hariri’s announcement of his political comeback marks a pivotal moment in Lebanese politics, representing a renewed commitment to unity and reform. His revival of the Future Movement party and advocacy for state authority, peace, and regional stability reflects his response to Lebanon’s ongoing challenges and the shifting political landscape. As he re-engages with the electorate, the implications of his renewed political presence remain to be seen.
Original Source: english.news.cn
