Saudi Arabia expresses support to Lebanon security measures amid unrest

Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry said on Sunday it supports Lebanon’s measures to “confront attempts to undermine the security of Lebanese citizens,” underscoring its support and “confidence” in President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam.

The Kingdom, in its statement, also commended the Lebanese state’s “firm approach in response to the attack on the UNIFIL peacekeeping mission.”

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The Saudi statement comes after tension erupted last week over Lebanon’s decision to block Iranian flights from landing at Beirut airport amid Israeli threats.

The Israeli military has accused Tehran of using civilian aircraft to smuggle cash to Beirut to arm Hezbollah.

In response, Hezbollah supporters have been blocking the airport road, getting into confrontations with the Lebanese army.

The attack on a United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) convoy in Beirut on Friday, which UNIFIL said had left the force’s outgoing deputy commander injured, has only added to the current tension.

Lebanese authorities have detained more than 25 persons in connection with the attack, which the US State Department said was carried out “reportedly by a group of Hezbollah supporters.”

Saudi Arabia said it supports Aoun, Salam, and the measures taken by the Lebanese Army to ensure “security and stability.”

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