The drama around Lebanon continues
When was the last time a world leader was kidnapped?
Lebanese PM Hariri shockingly quit a week ago while visiting Saudi Arabia and rumours continue to swirl that he's being held against his will.
Reuters is just out with a report arguing that he's being held against his will.
There was no line-up of Saudi princes or ministry officials, as would typically greet a prime minister on an official visit to King Salman, senior sources close to Hariri and top Lebanese political and security officials said. His phone was confiscated, and the next day he was forced to resign as prime minister in a statement broadcast by a Saudi-owned TV channel.
These are insane times in the Middle East and I'm starting to believe that the likelihood of open warfare is far higher than calm markets are letting on.
The report says Saudi Arabia concluded Hariri had to go because he was unwilling to confront Hezbolla.
French PM Macron made a surprise visit to Saudi Arabia on Friday and spoke with the Lebanese President today. He said that leaders should enjoy freedom of movement.
Back at home, Hariri's party said it stands by him and was "waiting impatiently for his return to Lebanon to handle his national responsibilities in leading this stage."
