Sunni Allies Distance Themselves From Hezbollah,Signaling Potential Shift in Lebanese Political Landscape
Beirut,Lebanon - A notable recalibration is underway among sunni political figures previously aligned with Hezbollah,signaling a potential fracturing of the group’s longstanding coalition and a renewed commitment to the Lebanese state and the Taif Agreement. Recent statements from Representatives Nabil Badr and Ashraf Rifi indicate a growing willingness to publicly distance themselves from the party, reflecting a belief that Hezbollah’s regional influence has waned and its dominance in Lebanon is diminishing.
This shift carries significant implications for Lebanon’s fragile political balance. For years, Hezbollah has maintained a complex network of alliances, including key support from within the Sunni community, allowing it to exert considerable influence over the government and security apparatus. A weakening of these ties coudl reshape the political landscape, potentially strengthening state institutions and paving the way for a more inclusive and stable Lebanon – a goal enshrined in the 1989 Taif Agreement. The move also comes as Iran, a key backer of Hezbollah, faces increasing regional pressure, further contributing to the evolving dynamic.
Representative Nabil Badr, speaking to Al-Nahar, affirmed his commitment to coexistence and all components of Beirut, specifically acknowledging the “generous Shiite community.” however, he stressed a firm adherence to the Taif Agreement, advocating for “exclusive arms and state building,” stating, “This is our project and our ancient role, we were and we will continue with it.” This positioning explicitly rejects Hezbollah’s continued possession of weapons outside the purview of the Lebanese state.
Representative Ashraf Rifi went further, asserting that Hezbollah’s influence has peaked and is in decline. “We confirmed years ago that ‘Hezbollah’ will end up or later,and here it is over,and also Iran has ended in the region and Lebanon and lost all its arms and papers that were enlightened and boasting about the occupation of four Arab capitals,including Beirut,” Rifi stated. He added that Sunni allies of the party are now “friends” and are communicating, and “stand by the state and the army clearly thru their positions.”
The Fatwa House, a prominent Sunni religious institution, is also signaling a renewed commitment to supporting the Prime Minister and the Taif Agreement, reinforcing the broader trend of distancing from Hezbollah’s agenda. Consecutive honoring and visits to the Fatwa House demonstrate a commitment to its historical principles and the guidance of Mufti Sheikh Abdul Latif Drian.
