Moussa Sounds Alarm, Egypt Points Obstruction Finger at Syria”s Allies

Arab League chief Amr Moussa has said the continued presidential vacuum will worsen the political situation in Lebanon as Egypt urged Syria to convince its Lebanese allies to help solve Beirut”s crisis.

“The delay in electing a president will increase political tension” in Lebanon, Moussa said Sunday, adding that the election of a new head of state will help solve several local, Arab and regional issues.

 

He stressed that “it was not a good time to discuss about candidates for the premiership” and that “legislative consultations based on the constitution decide this matter.”

 

He said current discussions with bickering Lebanese politicians are only focusing on the election of a new head of state and “probably the general make-up of the (future) cabinet.”

 

Meanwhile, Egyptian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Hussam Zaki hinted that the Hizbullah-led opposition was obstructing Arab efforts to help solve Lebanon”s political deadlock.

 

“Syria”s stance towards finding a way out of the Lebanese crisis is basic and fundamental. Syria has said that it has friendly ties (with Lebanon) and has allies” there, Zaki told Future TV.

 

“Those allies had stances that developed and which were not responsive enough. While the majority (adopted) welcoming stands,” Zaki said.

 

“We hope that Syria continues in its role of non-stop discussion with its allies to convince them into accepting the Arab effort,” he told the TV network.

 

“Syria might have made an effort but it is a minor attempt which requires intense dialogue and persuasion and real effort with the parties that have ties with Syria so that they accept” the Arab initiative, Zaki said.