Hariri Meets US Ambassador, Grand Mufti in Beirut

Former Prime Minister and leader of the al-Mustaqbal Movement, Saad Hariri, had a meeting at the Center House in Beirut with U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson and Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdul Latif Daryan on Tuesday.

After the meeting, Ambassador Johnson described the discussion with Hariri as “excellent” while departing from the Center House.

Hariri, who stepped back from his political career two years earlier, returned to Beirut on Sunday night. His return is in preparation for the upcoming 19th anniversary of the assassination of his father, Rafik Hariri, and his associates, which is observed on February 14.

Following the launch of nationwide protests in 2019 that called for a comprehensive reform of Lebanon’s ruling elite, Hariri stepped down from his role as prime minister. Despite being appointed the next year to establish a technocratic government aimed at implementing awaited reforms, he was unable to secure a consensus and ultimately resigned from the task.

Reports suggest that during his visit, Hariri is expected to have discussions with Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, who intends to facilitate a meeting between Hariri and former PSP leader Walid Jumblat.