On the 20th anniversary of Rafik Hariri’s assassination, former Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri has announced his return to political activities. On Friday, he declared that his party, the Future Movement, would re-enter politics after a three-year hiatus.
This news was reported by Arab News on Friday, February 14.
Hariri stated that the party founded by his late father would remain committed to the principles of the Taif Agreement, state-building, reconstruction, and institutional development. He emphasized, “We only want a normal state where there are no weapons outside the control of the state.”
Since Friday morning, thousands of supporters from Beirut, Bekaa, and northern Lebanon gathered at Martyrs’ Square, waving Lebanese flags and chanting slogans in support of Hariri. Addressing them, he said, “The followers of Rafik Hariri are still here, and your voice will be heard at every national moment. When the time comes, everything will happen.”
Hariri remarked, “We now have a president, a government, and new hope, which was evident in Prime Minister Nawaf Salam’s inaugural speech. This is a golden opportunity, and we support it. We will not tolerate any conspiracies.”
Addressing the people of southern Lebanon, Bekaa, and southern Beirut, Hariri urged them to seize this opportunity. He warned, “If you stand in your own way, uphold domination, and rule through weapons, then development will not be possible. We must build bridges with the Arab world, restore the legitimacy of the state, and ensure that only the national army and security forces are Lebanon’s protectors.”
He further elaborated, “A normal state is one where weapons are only in the hands of the army and legitimate security forces, where the economy is free, productive, and creates employment. It is a state where the judiciary is independent, laws are upheld, freedoms are protected, and justice is established.”
Expressing gratitude towards citizens who sheltered those displaced from their homes, Hariri said, “From the south to Bekaa, from Beirut to its southern suburbs—we stood together in difficult times. Now, we must unite for reconstruction.”
He reaffirmed his full support for the president and government, stating, “We will assist the government in building an effective state. We must reclaim our regional role and maintain relations with the Arab world and the international community.”
Hariri also declared his unwavering support for Lebanon’s state institutions and military, particularly in implementing UN Resolution 1701 and ending Israeli occupation.
Expressing solidarity with the Syrian people, Hariri stated, “We support their dreams and right to self-determination. Our vision is clear: a stable and rebuilt Syria that maintains an equal and sovereign relationship with Lebanon.”
On the Palestinian issue, he reaffirmed his commitment to Palestinian rights, saying, “A two-state solution is the only way.” He criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating, “Netanyahu’s problem is that he prioritizes war and avoids peace.”
Hariri also warned against attempts to resolve the Palestinian crisis at the expense of Arab countries like Egypt, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun paid tribute to Rafik Hariri, stating, “He was a true statesman.” He praised Hariri’s political stance for strengthening national unity, preserving civil peace, and playing a crucial role in implementing the Taif Agreement.
At a memorial service near Hariri’s tomb, hundreds of thousands of Lebanese people, including Future Movement supporters, were present.
Meanwhile, Israeli warplanes were reportedly seen flying over Beirut.
Additionally, Lebanon and Iran’s foreign ministries are engaged in discussions to facilitate the return of Lebanese travelers from Tehran. Lebanese Foreign Minister Youssef Razi stated, “This process is ongoing through Lebanon’s ambassador in Tehran.”
On Thursday night, protestors blocked roads leading to Beirut’s airport, which were later reopened after military intervention.
Hundreds of Hezbollah supporters took to the streets in protest, accusing the Lebanese government of succumbing to Israeli and American pressure.
Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee claimed, “The Quds Force and Hezbollah are using Beirut’s airport for money laundering.”
In response, Lebanon’s aviation authorities announced new security measures at Beirut’s airport to ensure compliance with international standards.
Flight schedules to and from Iran have been temporarily adjusted until February 18.
A political source stated, “Intelligence reports indicate that an aircraft was carrying funds for Hezbollah, raising security concerns.”
Hezbollah leader Ibrahim al-Moussawi dismissed Israel’s accusations, stating, “Israel has repeatedly violated Lebanon’s sovereignty, with the United States supporting these actions. We urge the state to take a firm stance against Israeli threats.”