Israel silent ahead of Ahmadinejad visit to Lebanon: 'He's his own worst enemy'

Foreign Ministry says PR campaign against Iranian leader not needed because his 'negativity, aggression induce natural resentment wherever he goes'

Ynet reporters|Published: 10.12.10 , 00:49

"We don’t need a campaign, because Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is creating a negative PR campaign for himself," Foreign Ministry sources said while explaining Israel's silence ahead the Iranian president's arrival in Lebanon on Wednesday, during which he will visit the border with Israel.

"He will arrive in Lebanon, and everyone understands the significance of this," Foreign Ministry spokesman Yigal Palmor told Ynet Monday night. "The Lebanese are this first to understand the severe ramifications this visit has for their country. We have no reason to intervene.

IDF Jeep to the right, pictures of Ahmadinejad to the left (Photo: AP)

"When Ahmadinejad is quoted as saying that Lebanon is Iran's border with Israel, the Arab world recognizes the statement's aggressive tone," he said.

"Now he is directing his aggression towards Arab elements, and the negativity he exudes is so strong that it stirs natural resentment wherever he goes. With all the negative things he does and projects – he has become his own negative message."

Final preparations (Photo: AP)

The Lebanese daily Addiyar reported that Hezbollah has almost completed its preparations for the mass rallies that will be held in Ahmadinejad's honor. Giant posters bearing the Iranian leader's image were placed along the road leading from Beirut International Airport to the capital itself, as well as in the Dahiya neighborhood – a Hezbollah stronghold – and in south Lebanon.

During his visit, Ahmadinejad is scheduled to lay a wreath on the grave of assassinated Hezbollah commander Imad Mughniyeh and attend a mass rally in his honor at a soccer stadium. Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah is also expected to speak at the event.

Ronen Medzini and Roee Nahmias contributed to the report