Bilal Y. Saab
What Hariri's Resignation Means for Lebanon
An Escalation From Riyadh
Foreign Affairs, 2017
Aperçu
Hariri’s resignation brings uncertainty to Lebanon, but is unlikely to impede Iran’s regional ascent.
Recommendation
Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri plunged Lebanon into political uncertainty when he unexpectedly announced his resignation. The fact that he made this announcement in Riyad and read from a script that many suspected was drafted by the Saudis has increased suspicions that Lebanon is being dragged into a larger regional confrontation between the Saudi-led Sunnis and Iran-backed Shiites. Middle East and International security expert Bilal Y. Saab analyzes the regional context and implications of Hariri’s resignation in this Foreign Affairs Snapshot.
Summary
About the Author
Bilal Y. Saab is senior fellow and director of the Defense and Security Program at the Middle East Institute.
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