MOSCOW, February 18. /TASS/. Russia urges political forces in Lebanon to address all internal disputes within the framework of the law, by way of compromise and dialogue, Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said at a briefing.
Supporters of Hezbollah blocked traffic along the highway leading to the Beirut international airport on February 13, 14, and 15 to protest against Lebanon’s refusal to allow Iran’s Mahar Air airline to carry out flights there. Crowds of aggressive young men attacked motor vehicles heading to the airport, including convoys transporting United Nations peacekeepers. Several streets in Beirut’s western and southern neighborhoods were also blocked with burning tires.
"For our part, we believe that what is going on in the Republic of Lebanon is its internal affair. We urge and have been urging leaders from all political forces to commit to resolving all disputes and issues stemming from these disagreements on the national agenda within the legal framework, through seeking mutually acceptable compromises and avoiding violence," the diplomat said.
The spokeswoman noted that given the complicated situation today, it is crucial to prevent Lebanon from being destabilized, "to protect the political unity" of the nation and to ensure Lebanon’s return to the path of stable growth.