Report: FPM, Hizbullah Ties 'Normal' Despite Differences

The Free Patriotic Movement and Hizbullah have been keen to rule out any rift amid media reports highlighting sharp differences between the close allies over several issues including the extension of Army Chief Gen. Jean Qahwaji's tenure.

Sources close to Hizbullah told As Safir newspaper published on Wednesday that the ties with FPM chief MP Michel Aoun are “normal.”

The sources pointed out that a phone conversation between Hizbullah Liaison and Coordination Officer Wafiq Safa and Aoun on Tuesday night came in the context of the continuous coordination between the two officials.

“Hizbullah is convinced that the alliance with Aoun is deeper than minor disputes,” the sources added.

Aoun considered for his part the visit of Saudi Ambassador Ali Awadh Asiri to Rabieh on Tuesday “doesn't aim at irritating anyone,” denying that it came in light of the dispute with Hizbullah over the extension of Qahwaji's term.

Disputes between the FPM and Hizbullah emerged after Aoun openly opposed the extension of Qahwaji's term while Hizbullah never made such a position.

Qahwaji's term ends this September when he turns 60, the maximum age for the post of the army commander.

FPM caretaker Energy Minister Jebran Bassil described in comments published in An Nahar newspaper the visit of Asiri as “positive.”

“Our allies must not by irritated of the matter... These meetings bridge the gap with the local foes and the regional sponsors,” Bassil said.

He pointed out that when the FPM allies hold talks with any rival party, the FPM considers the matter a “positive initiative.”