VOLGOGRAD. Nov 1 (Interfax) - Interference in the internal political affairs of Lebanon is unacceptable, the Russian Foreign Ministry said.
"We see the events that are taking place as an internal affair of Lebanon and the people of this country. We hope they can resolve the current crisis, find the right solutions for that in accordance with the current constitution and legislation and on the basis of inclusive dialogue," Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova told a briefing on Friday.
"Simultaneously, we believe it is extremely important that all external sides closely observe the principle of respect for the sovereignty and independence of Lebanon, which rules out any interference in the internal affairs of this Middle Eastern country," she said.
The tensions and street protests in the country have decreased in the past few days, the Russian Foreign Ministry said.
Thousands of people took part in a nationwide strike in Lebanon. The protests in the country began amid an economic crisis, but the protesters demand political reforms in addition to economic reforms. Specifically, the protesters demanded the resignation of the government, which supported Iran.
The unrest in Lebanon intensified after Hassan Nasrallah, leader of the Lebanese Shiite movement Hezbollah, said political rivals who criticized his movement could be manipulating the protesters. He also accused foreign and regional forces opposing Hezbollah, which is an ally of Iran, of speculation on the protests.
Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri announced his resignation in a televised address on October 29.