Saudi ambassador condemns Hezbollah

Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to Lebanon, Ali Awad al-Asiri has expressed concerns about the security situation in the Lebanese cities of Akkar, Arsal and Sidon, blaming Hezbollah's interference in Syria for the deterioration. Ambassador Asiri is expected to meet Free Patriotic Movement (FPM) leader Michel Aoun for lunch in Rabieh on Tuesday. Ahead of the meeting, he told reporters that Sunni and Shiite sects must co-exist in Lebanon for there to be long-lasting peace. He urged Hezbollah to hold talks with their Sunni counterparts to promote harmony and positive relations, and stop Lebanon from entering "a dark tunnel." Asiri condemned Hezbollah for getting involved in the Syrian conflict, arguing that it would only increase the division and tension near the border areas. He said the people of Lebanon needed guidance from the "wise and elderly" in society to bring an end to the crisis. The Saudi ambassador reiterated King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz's desire for stability in Lebanon.