Is there a presence for Salafis in Tripoli?

Before the killing of Sheikh Abou Mouslem during Tripoli’s recent incidents, everyone used to refute the presence of Salafis in the city. The murder of the Sheikh constituted a clear announcement confirming their presence among militants, particularly in the al-Rifa region, even if their number remains limited.           

While Bab al-Tebbaneh residents fight to defend themselves, as they say, the Salafis consider the battle as Jihad.             

In this context, the Salafi Sheikh Omar Bakri Festoq stressed that the Isalmic spring began in the North of Lebanon, declaring that in case any party fight them, they are ready to incite people to jihad. He noted that what has been called “Arab Spring” is in fact an “Islamic Spring” which requires time to give its fruits.                  

Sheikh Bakri told LBCI that Jabal Mohsen has been sending messages from the “dying Syrian regime”, noting that its allies in Lebanon are inciting strives.                    

The recent clashes in Tripoli may have shed the light on the presence of Salafis in the North; however, Islamic parties and movements are numerous in Tripoli with different political affiliations but they unite for the support of the Sunnis.