Berri: LAF is a red line not to be crossed

Berri said that the situation is worrisome and requires that all forces shoulder their responsibilities to preserve civil peace adding that Syria needs solidarity and unity to help it reach the phase of stability as it also needs political action based on participation and civil-peace making without interference.        

Berri added that local and regional calls are underway to facilitate negotiations in the case of the abducted Lebanese in Syria. He expressed hope that there may be progress in this case by tomorrow. He also praised efforts made by President Michael Suleiman, Premiere Najib Mikati, former Prime Minister Saad Hariri and Foreign Minister Adnan Kassar in those regards.          

Berri said that the interest of the Lebanese people lies within leaving the LAF out of the country’s bickering stressing that the army is a red line not to be crossed.  He added that any comments on the performance of the LAF must go through its central leadership and should be addressed as such especially in regards to the Akkar events.          

Berri stressed that Lebanon is bound to be affected by the events taking place in Syria which may reflect dangerously on the country. He added that the “self-distancing” policy expressed by the Saudi King is the best policy one can adhere to considering the circumstances.      

In regards to the criticism that followed the letter given by the Syrian Representative to the UN, Berri asked whether it was necessary to reach such a level and whether a mediator was truly in need.