Hezbollah has become ‘less flexible’, while the US and KSA are aiming to ‘concentrate on security aspects’

According to a report by the pro-Hezbollah newspaper al-Akhbar on Tuesday, French Special Presidential Envoy Jean-Yves Le Drian’s upcoming visit to Lebanon is deemed as poorly timed. The report suggests that Le Drian is unlikely to receive a positive response, in contrast to the Qatari envoy.

The newspaper highlighted that Hezbollah, a key player in Lebanon’s political landscape, is not interested in engaging in discussions about the presidential election at this time. Instead, the group’s attention remains focused on the developments in Gaza. Hezbollah is reported to be firmly sticking to its conditions and demands regarding the presidential matter, a stance it has already communicated to the Qatari envoy, who left Lebanon without achieving any results.

The report also touches on Saudi Arabia’s stance, noting that the kingdom is determined to refrain from participating in any settlements in Lebanon. Both Riyadh and Washington are said to be aligned in their approach, prioritizing the security situation in Lebanon. This includes managing potential escalations on the southern front and ensuring the stability of the military institution, specifically by extending the term of the current army commander, General Joseph Aoun.

Al-Akhbar concludes by stating that both Saudi Arabia and the United States view the Lebanese situation as unsuitable for a presidential settlement or a political bargaining agreement among the conflicting Lebanese parties.