Posted on 05/08/2005 11:15:47 AM PDT by nuconvert
Anti-Syrian Leader Returns to Beirut
Saturday, May 07, 2005
BEIRUT, Lebanon — Anti-Syrian leader Michel Aoun (search) returned Saturday from 14 years' exile in France to crowds of cheering supporters, his return paved by the withdrawal of Syrian troops and the dropping of an arrest warrant against him.
The one-time army commander and interim Lebanese prime minister strode onto a stage at downtown Martyrs' Square (search) flashing victory signs before speaking the thousands of flag-waving people from behind protective glass.
"Here I am today, returning to you, and Lebanon has become sovereign, free and independent," said Aoun, who was exiled after losing a "war of liberation" against Syrian forces in 1989-90.
"I told you one day that the world can smash me but will not make me sign on," he told the wild crowd, referring to his 1989 refusal to sign on to an Arab-brokered agreement that ended civil war but consolidated Syria's control over Lebanon. "Here I return today and the world could not crush me or extract my signature."
The screaming crowd — many wearing his Free Patriotic Movement's (search) orange T-shirts and scarfs over their shoulders — had gathered hours before to watch Aoun's arrival and airport news conference on a giant screen. Some hugged and kissed and pumped their fists in the air. Bands played martial music, and troupes danced the Dabke, a traditional folk mountain dance.
Aoun, arriving from Paris on a special Middle East Airlines (search) flight with about 100 aides, emerged from the plane accompanied by his wife, Nadia, and two top aides and flanked by bodyguards. Descending the plane's stairs, he received bouquets of flowers from well-wishers before entering the airport's VIP lounge.
Sitting with two grandchildren on his lap and a smiling daughter who kissed him on the head, ...
(Excerpt) Read more at foxnews.com ...
Anybody know if they have pulled out their intelligence forces as well, or are they still lurking around?
Who is financing him? Perhaps he cut a deal with the French.
They're still there from all I've read.
Phase three is decrease Hizballah's political & military power. Michel Aoun knows how to deal with Islamic terrorists.
"Phase three is decrease Hizballah's political & military power"
Not easy, when they're being supported by Iranian regime.
Also, once a real government is operating in Iran the multiple millions spent via mullah oil profits on exporting Shi'ite related Muslim terrorism throughout the world, will also come to an abrupt halt and equally important U.S. servicemen serving in Iraq and Afghanistan will not be confronted with Iranian supported terrorists.
Sure. If we can get rid of the regime. And soon.
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