Former Lebanese PM: President Aoun’s call with Saudi crown prince highlights historic Beirut-Riyadh ties

Former Lebanese Prime Minister Fouad Siniora described the phone call between President Joseph Aoun and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who is also the prime minister of Saudi Arabia, as a "positive gesture," emphasizing that the discussion reflected the historic relationship between Beirut and Riyadh.

Speaking to Al Arabiya, Siniora said President Joseph Aoun is heading to Washington as Lebanon’s legitimate representative, enjoying both Saudi support and the backing of the majority of Lebanese people.

He added that "there can no longer be armed groups operating outside the law," stressing the need for the Lebanese state to restore its authority and influence through gradual steps.

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The former prime minister also said Lebanon’s demands in talks with the occupying state are "as clear as day," expressing his expectation that these demands will receive support from the United States.

Siniora noted that President Joseph Aoun is the legitimate representative of Lebanon, visiting Washington with popular support and backed by the Saudi position.