As Lebanon approaches its second month without a head of state, its leaders have been flying to Gulf capitals, stirring intrigue. The head of Lebanon’s Armed Forces, Joseph Aoun, was welcomed in Doha on 10 December. A few days before, Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati was in Riyadh for the Arab-Chinese summit. The Gulf has historically played a large role in Lebanese politics, especially in times of political deadlock. Particular Gulf states, like Saudi Arabia, have channeled their interests through politicians and parties such as Saad Hariri and now the Lebanese Forces. Lebanese political …