Suspect efforts by senior Kataeb Party advisor to discredit Free Patriotic Movement in Washington

Concerns are mounting over alleged efforts by Joseph Jabely, a senior advisor to Samir Geagea, leader of the Lebanese Force Party in Lebanon, to discredit rival political factions and escalate pressure against them through engagements in Washington D.C. and Chicago.

According to sources, Jabely conducted approximately meetings with U.S. officials during his recent trip, including representatives from the State Department, Treasury Department, the new U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon, and members of Congress. He reportedly presented a selective account of the political and social situation in Lebanon, with a particular focus on demonizing and undermining Hezbollah.

Efforts to sanction political rivals:

The primary concern centers around Jabely’s activities at the U.S. Treasury Department. Informed sources report a lengthy meeting with Treasury officials during which Jabely provided an assessment of Hezbollah’s financial situation and proposed measures to tighten financial controls in Lebanon.

However, the notable aspect of the meeting was that Jabely went beyond focusing solely on Hezbollah, presenting a list of groups allegedly supporting the organization and demanding financial sanctions against them. The Free Patriotic Movement (FPM) was included on this list, with Jabely reportedly urging the imposition of financial sanctions against the FPM.

Concerns over interference in Lebanese internal affairs:

Jabely’s actions have sparked concerns within Lebanese political circles. Some observers believe these efforts represent a clear attempt to exacerbate divisions amongst Christians within Lebanon and fuel broader political strife. The Lebanese Force is believed to be attempting to create artificial anxieties about its rivals amongst U.S. policymakers, thereby creating favorable conditions for its own success in upcoming elections.

Others view this as a bid to garner support in Washington and strengthen the Lebanese Force Party’s position within Lebanon.

Analysts warn that presenting selective information and labeling political rivals could escalate the political crisis in Lebanon and destabilize the country.

The report suggests the Lebanese Force believes it can leverage these concerns to sway U.S. policy and gain a political advantage in Lebanon.