Jumblat Welcomes Franjieh’s Election, Calls Israelis ‘Crazy,’ Says Netanyahu

Walid Jumblat, the former leader of the Progressive Socialist Party, is expressing frustration over Lebanon’s prolonged absence of a president, which has been ongoing for over a year amid political deadlock.

In an interview published Wednesday in al-Akhbar, Jumblat voiced his exasperation, particularly with the Christian factions’ failure to reach an agreement for two years. He stated his readiness to support any candidate to fill the presidential void, even suggesting that he would be open to electing Marada leader Suleiman Franjieh. Jumblat clarified that this willingness to elect any candidate reflects his personal view and not necessarily that of the democratic gathering bloc.

Addressing the ongoing conflicts at the southern border of Lebanon, Jumblat opined that neither Hezbollah nor Iran are seeking war, while accusing certain Israeli leaders of irrational behavior. He labeled some figures in Israel, including the Prime Minister and generals, as “crazy.”

The Israeli-Lebanese border has been the site of almost daily exchanges of fire between the Israeli army and Hezbollah. In south Lebanon, the conflict has resulted in the deaths of 202 people, including 147 Hezbollah members. Civilian casualties have included at least 26 individuals, among them three journalists, two rescuers, and a Lebanese soldier.

The hostilities have led to the displacement of over 83,000 Lebanese, as reported by the International Organization for Migration.

Meanwhile, the Israeli army has reported 15 fatalities on their side of the northern border area, comprising nine soldiers and six civilians.