Political circles close to Hezbollah have reportedly revealed the “reproaches” of Hassan Nasrallah, the group’s Secretary General, with regard to the recent steps taken by Gebran Bassil, leader of the Free Patriotic Movement (FPM).
“Reducing the number of MPs in the bloc on the eve of the presidential election would weaken the FPM’s position,” the same source explained, elucidating Hezbollah’s reaction.
Against a backdrop of tensions within the FPM, several veteran and founding members have been expelled by the party leadership or have anticipated this decision by announcing their departure. The latest on the list are MPs Alain Aoun and Simon Abi Ramia.
In this context, Bassil’s position was to let go “anyone who does not wish to abide by the rules” of the FPM. According to the same sources, Bassil made attempts to renew ties with Hezbollah, requesting a meeting with Nasrallah in order to “discuss the establishment of new bases for a new alliance.” This new “turn” is said to have displeased the pro-Iranian group, particularly after the FPM lost several MPs from its parliamentary bloc.
