Prince Talal criticized the Lebanese leadership for rejecting the Saudi initiative regarding relationship between Lebanon and Syria. The initiative was not really Saudi as was reported but an old Syrian initiative that was routed thru the Saudi foreign minister. The Lebanese leadership found it insulting and infringing on Lebanese sovereignty and that is why they rejected it.

Prince Talal went too far in his criticism of the Lebanese leaders... If the criticism came from other than Talal many would have ignored it. But Talal was considered one of the most liberal Saudi princes. During Jamal Abdul Nasser's era he formed what was called 'Free Princes' movement in Saudi Arabia, as opposed to "Free Officers" of Egypt. What has happened to prince Talal since?

But Lebanese shouldn't worry if they don't follow the prince's advise. His son didn’t either in 1991 and I am sure Prince Talal is glad he didn't . When 'Alwaleed' son of prince Talal tried to save the Citibank, by purchasing about $600 million dollars worth of stock in 91 his dad recommended strongly against it... if Waleed listened he may not be today one of the top 5 billionaires in the world and would never have forgiven his dad....likewise prince Talal should forgive the Lebanese if they don't listen, for their dignity is far too valuable to be marginalized.

My advise to prince Talal is: As the son-in-law of Lebanon, we expect you to help Lebanon regain its sovereignty, independence and freedom. It is about time that you tell our brothers in the Middle East to stop acting like big brothers ... it is time they act as friends. "Brotherhood" cost Lebanon far too much. Lebanon's neighbours have to get used to an independent, free and sovereign Lebanon. The road to Beirut is direct and no longer goes through Damascus. Lebanon will one day lead the Arab nation in seeking freedom and democracy; the smart ones should jump on the freedom bandwagon today.

Prince Talal we want you on our side, it is the side you chose when you formed the "Free Princes" in 1958... the side of freedom. Lebanon wants to be free of any foreign influence; we want to be completely independent. Lebanese should not be forced into an alliance with any country at the expense of our freedom and independence. As Prince Talal previously said, we want our citizenship to be complete.

Can we count on you?
Show us once again you are the Free Prince.

Source: Ya Libnan, Alwaleed by Riz Khan, Local Media