Jumblatt: Lebanese groups involved in Syria

Lebanese politician and current leader of the Progressive Socialist Party (PSP), Walid Jumblatt MP has claimed that a number of groups from Lebanon are involved in the Syrian war. Speaking to Arabiya television, Jumblatt said that Hezbollah is fighting alongside the ruling Syrian regime, while March 14 groups such as the Future Movement are fighting with Syrian opposition. He described Lebanese involvement in the conflict as "playing with fire," and said that the protection of Lebanon is key priority. "It is necessary to stop using terms like arms and justice, so we can protect Lebanon from the dangers. We must defend Lebanon, and remember that Israel is the danger." The 63-year old revealed that he will hold meetings with Saudi officials in the next few days, after talks with former Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri. "I will meet Saudi Chief of General Intelligence Prince Bandar bin Sultan, Foreign Minister Saud al-Faisal and possibly King Abdullah." Jumblatt said that elections in Lebanon will happen on time if "parties can overcome silly political details." He explained that he has good relations with Hezbollah and is willing to "reach out to the party and engage in dialogue with Shiites." The political veteran called on both Hezbollah and Future Movement to reconsider their actions, because "Middle East is sinking," and their future will be "without borders and sultanates." He stressed that US President Barack Obama is not interested in Syria, but the Americans, Russians and Iranians are settling their scores at the expense of the Syrian people. He warned against the creation of an Alawite state in Syria, because that would mean "a war with no end," adding that even though President Bashar al-Assad will not back down, the Syrian people will win eventually. Jumblatt described the assassination of Hossam Khosh Nue, head of Iranian Reconstruction Agency in Lebanon as a "big concern."