Report: Fear of Assassinations to 'Shuffle Cards' on Presidency

Security forces warned that the vacuum at the top state post can pave way for a favorable environment for the assassination of prominent political figures, As Safir daily reported on Thursday.

“The most dangerous thing about extending the vacuum is that it could be a favorable environment for dramatic incidents inside Lebanon that could lead to the assassination of political figures,” security forces told the daily.

They added on condition of anonymity, disclosing fears that "the assassination of officials could take place in order to shuffle the cards and push for a quick presidential election.”

"The continuation of the presidential vacuum seems most likely at least in the foreseeable future, until the region crosses the 'transitional phase' toward the major settlements, which will be preceded by developments and confrontations to improve the negotiating positions," they added.

Lebanon has been without a president since the term of President Michel Suleiman ended in May 2014.

Conflicts between the rival March 8 and March 14 camps have thwarted all attempts to elect a successor.

D.A.

M.T.