Lebanon Commemorates 20 Years Since Rafic Hariri’s Assassination Amid Political Shifts
Lebanon observes the 20th anniversary of Rafic Hariri’s assassination, witnessing significant political transformations. Saad Hariri returns amidst these changes, as Hezbollah faces challenges in maintaining its influence. The upcoming ceasefire deadline and shifting alliances signal potential for renewed Sunni leadership bolstered by regional support.
On February 14, 2025, Lebanon commemorates the 20th anniversary of former Prime Minister Rafic Hariri’s assassination, amidst significant political shifts that may weaken Hezbollah’s position. Hariri, instrumental in Lebanon’s post-civil war reconstruction, was killed shortly after resigning as premier. A UN-backed court sentenced two Hezbollah affiliates to life imprisonment in 2022 for Hariri’s assassination, although Hezbollah has not surrendered them.
Saad Hariri, Rafic’s son and a former prime minister, returned from the UAE to participate in the memorial in a transformed Lebanese political landscape. The commemoration coincides with the impending deadline of a Hezbollah-Israel ceasefire, which has caused concerns of renewed hostilities. Despite Hezbollah’s recent challenges, including roadblocks by their supporters following airport controversies, the organization remains influential.
Attendees of the memorial expressed optimism, citing the ousting of the Syrian regime as a reason for joy. Saad Hariri’s potential return to political life is anticipated by his supporters, though he currently prefers to assess developments in Lebanese and regional politics. Hizbollah, previously the dominant force in the country’s political landscape, faces increasing pressure from various sectors as hardships mount.
Recent political changes include the election of former army chief Joseph Aoun as president and the formation of a new government under Prime Minister Nawaf Salam. These developments indicate shifting allegiances that may empower Sunni leadership, particularly if Saad Hariri can redefine his political role amidst declining Iranian influence. Saudi Arabia has renewed its interest in Lebanese politics, eager to support a robust Sunni leadership.
Saad Hariri’s anniversary of his father’s assassination will serve as a barometer of his ability to consolidate support among the Sunni community. Following his father’s murder, Hariri’s emergence in politics signaled a turning point that led to the withdrawal of Syrian troops from Lebanon. In contrast, Hezbollah struggles to prove its relevance amidst a changing political climate.
Lebanon marks 20 years since Rafic Hariri’s assassination amid crucial political changes that may weaken Hezbollah’s grip on power while presenting an opportunity for a resurgence of his son, Saad Hariri. As Iranian influence declines, a renewed interest from regional actors like Saudi Arabia offers the potential for revitalizing Sunni leadership in Lebanon. Saad Hariri’s return to the political arena could re-establish his influence within the Sunni community and affect Lebanon’s political landscape significantly.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
