Lavrov Warns of ‘Bad End’ if Syria Uprising Spreads to Lebanon
إقرأ هذا الخبر بالعربية
Russia's foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, warned on Wednesday that the conflict in Syria could spread to Lebanon and “end very badly.”
Speaking in a televised news conference, Lavrov said that there is "a tangible threat" of the Syrian uprising spilling over to Lebanon which "could end very badly."
He also warned about "an artificial escalation" of tensions between two main branches of Islam, Shiites and Sunnis.
Lavrov's statement comes after accusations on Tuesday that the opposition Free Syrian Army of abducting a group of Shiite Lebanese pilgrims inside Syria. The FSA has denied any involvement.
"It is especially tragic that the conflicts between Shiites and Sunnis begin to be exposed and artificially aggravated," Lavrov added in the televised remarks.
"This is a most dangerous development of events which must be avoided at all costs."
Russia has been Syria's most powerful ally over the course of the uprising.
Russia, along with China, has used its veto power to shield Damascus from U.N. sanctions.
The revolt in Syria began 15 months ago, and there are fears the unrest will lead to a regional conflagration, drawing in neighboring countries.
The U.N. estimates the conflict has killed more than 9,000 people since March 2011.
23 May 2012, 13:22
00
No Lebanese want civil war nor even civil strife. Any problems that arise: Blame Syria, Israel, Iran and the US.
23 May 2012, 13:38
01
I am really astonished from the narrow mindedness of this foreign minister and the country he represents. Let's assume for one that yes Lebanon would resurrect civil war! does this mean that we should support the Syrian regime even after they have killed more than 10 thoudands of their citizens. the Syrian crisis is purely Syrian and the people of Syria are more than capable to resolve it one way ir another. It would have been wiser if Lavrov did put some brain in his head and the head of his master Putin and help the Syrian people find a new president for themselves based on the Syrian's choice at the gullops. This is how democracy works. But who would listen; the Russians who had their elections rigged for Putin to succeed. Russia is the last country to let us know how we should govern or behave. They should first fix themselves and then maybe if they become rational to help impart piecec of advice to others.
