Former MP Emile Lahoud affirmed that the ongoing chaos in Lebanon is continuing, with fears of an increased pace in the upcoming period.
In a conversation for the program "Window on Lebanon," Lahoud explained that the people's demands, suffering, and pain are undeniable facts, pointing out that Tripoli and its surroundings are among the cities most affected by the current situation, which had already been struggling before the economic crisis. Lahoud added that there is an attempt to exploit the economic situation and the people's pain to turn Tripoli into a mailroom. The former MP noted that some are trying to create a sort of state within a state, a sentiment felt over the past ten years, especially from many extremist groups that fought in Syria and were defeated thanks to the valor of the Syrian people and the assistance of the Russian army.
Lahoud emphasized that the major extremist project has collapsed, highlighting that there are groups present on the ground, some of which are hiding in Lebanon, and the Lebanese arena is exposed. He pointed out that the warning from the Director General of General Security, Major General Abbas Ibrahim, about this matter means that Lebanon is in danger and must take preventive measures.
Major General Abbas Ibrahim had previously warned of the potential entry of ISIS into Lebanon through Tripoli, clarifying that after the death of ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the organization's presence has diminished. He noted that recently there have been threats regarding the liberation of ISIS prisoners, followed by explosions in Iraq and increased ISIS activity in some Syrian regions. Ibrahim emphasized that "Lebanon is not an isolated island, and it is natural for it to be affected by its surrounding environment." He confirmed that necessary measures are being taken to prevent ISIS from entering Lebanon, warning that what is happening in Tripoli could be a gateway for this organization into the Lebanese arena.
