Jumblatt: Lebanon was left alone under pressure from lobbies in Washington

Former Progressive Socialist Party leader Walid Jumblatt said the US position toward Lebanon has seen a noticeable retreat, attributing this to the influence of lobbying groups in Washington which, in his words, side with the Israeli agenda at the expense of Lebanese interests.

In his remarks, Jumblatt stressed that the American Task Force for Lebanon (ATFL) represents a patriotic lobby that seeks to defend Lebanon’s interests and is not among the parties that align themselves with policies supportive of Israel within the United States.

Jumblatt’s comments came in the context of a press interview in which he addressed the possibility that any US-Iran agreement on a ceasefire could be reflected on the Lebanese scene, expressing concern that the priorities of forces influential in US decision-making may be far removed from protecting Lebanon.

He added, asking in a warning tone: “Could Lebanon be sacrificed entirely in service of projects that serve Israel’s interests?”—an indication of fears over regional repercussions that could further complicate Lebanon’s internal situation.