Political tensions escalate in Lebanon between Lebanese Forces party and Free Patriotic Movement

BEIRUT — Amid Lebanon’s ongoing political crises, tensions have intensified between the Lebanese Forces party and the Free Patriotic Movement, sparking a new dispute.

The Lebanese Forces party issued a statement accusing the Free Patriotic Movement of launching a misleading campaign, falsely portraying itself as a defender against unfair government appointments that discriminate against Christians.

The statement said that the Free Patriotic Movement’s actions are aimed at undermining political opponents, including Lebanese Forces, and are not grounded in reality.

Highlighting the complexities of Lebanon’s political landscape, the statement underscored that while the government has the support of the Free Patriotic Movement in Parliament, Lebanese Forces have withdrawn their confidence. It criticized the government’s decisions, particularly those objected to by MP Gebran Bassil, labeling it a one-sided government.

The Lebanese Forces media department pointed out that disruption of government meetings could have been achieved if Hezbollah, a key ally of the Free Patriotic Movement, had refused to participate. This, it argued, highlights internal divisions within the coalition.

The statement emphasized the Lebanese Forces’ commitment to defending Lebanon, despite challenges within the coalition. It accused the Free Patriotic Movement of deflecting blame onto others for its own failings.