## Lebanon‘s Saad Hariri Returns to Beirut Amidst Security Concerns
After a two-year hiatus, former Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri returned to Beirut on February 13, 2024, on the ninth anniversary of his father’s assassination. His arrival was marked by a formal reception ceremony at the government palace.
Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati welcomed Hariri, expressing hope that the anniversary of Rafik Hariri’s assassination could be a unifying moment for the Lebanese people amidst the country’s challenges.
Hariri, who has been out of the limelight, appeared with a new look, including a different hairstyle, thin beard, and significant weight loss.
His return coincides with the 19th anniversary of his father’s assassination. He is scheduled to participate in a large gathering of supporters in front of his father’s tomb in Beirut. His supporters have been mobilizing in various regions under the slogan “Let’s go down and he’ll come back,” urging him to return to political work.
Hariri is expected to meet with various Lebanese figures and authorities during his stay, but the details of his schedule have not been announced. His speeches and actions will be closely watched, as they will likely indicate his future political plans.
On January 24, 2022, Hariri abruptly suspended his political activities, citing a lack of opportunities for positive change in Lebanon due to Iranian influence, international confusion, national division, and sectarian tensions.