Report: Salam Says Some Sides 'Jumped to Conclusions' on Lebanon Joining Islamic Alliance

Prime Minister Tammam Salam believes that some sides were quick to “make assumptions” over the Islamic alliance that was announced by Saudi Arabia and which Lebanon has decided to join, reported al-Joumhouria newspaper on Thursday.

“Salam noted that they jumped to conclusions in this issue before hearing the constitutional and legal aspects of the alliance,” his sources told the daily.

“The coalition has only made a declaration of political and diplomatic intent,” they explained.

Saudi Arabia unveiled on Tuesday the coalition that is aimed at confronting terrorism.

It includes 35 countries from across the Muslim and Arab world, except Syria, Iraq, and Iran.

The announcement that Lebanon joined the alliance sparked objections in the country, with some officials saying that they were not informed of such a measure.

Salam was informed of the step and defended it on Wednesday, saying: “I am entitled as premier to take a preliminary decision on Saudi Arabia's invitation to take part in this alliance, especially since cabinet is not holding sessions.”

“No one can prevent me from taking a decision that I deem appropriate and I will assume the responsibility of my actions,” he declared.

“This does not mean that I am overriding the government that ultimately has the final say and executive role in the matter,” Salam said.

M.T.

D.A.