Last week, the Central News Agency reported that fundamentalist groups were likely responsible for the bombing of Bir al-Abed in Beirut’s Dahiyeh. This week, another attack targeted Hezbollah in the Beqaa, causing many experts to wonder if Lebanon is becoming a breeding ground for Salafists.

“The Dahiyeh suburbs and Hezbollah do not seem to be the only target anymore, with new reports pointing to possible attacks to be launched against the Lebanese army,” says an officer in the Lebanese army intelligence, speaking on condition of anonymity. According to the military source, the security situation in Tripoli – a bastion of Lebanese Salafism – has been manageable so far, thanks to the control exerted by politicians and intelligence services that back militant groups.

“It’s no secret,” says Mohamad Masri, a former member of the popular committee. “(Lijan Chaabiaya) militant groups all answer to Tripoli politicians and intelligence services,” he points out. [Link]