Al-Zoaby ends mediation in kidnapping case over cabinet’s incompetence

Head of the Free People of Syria Sheikh Ibrahim Al-Zoaby announced on Monday the permanent end of his mission as mediator in the case of the 11 kidnapped Lebanese men.   

Al-Zoaby explained that the main reason behind his decision was the Lebanese cabinet’s lack of professionalism while dealing with the case.    

The Sheikh added that the statements recently put forth by Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah contributed to the failure of the settlements earlier reached “thanks to” follow-ups and mediations led by former PM Saad Hariri and MP Okab Sakr to secure the release of the hostages.    

In a statement to LBCI, the Sheikh explained that the media confusion surrounding the case as well as the interference of different parties in the issue, whom the sheikh stressed was none of their concern, prompted him to disassociate himself from an operation “that was initially of a humanitarian nature.”

In his concluding remarks, Al-Zoaby pointed out that the last call with the kidnappers was made on Sunday, confirming that the hostages are safe and in good health.