It is in fact hilarious when US diplomats discuss with Hariri MPs plans to cultivate "alternative Shi`ites": so funny

"The Charge, noting that some independent Shia were frustrated with their lack of access to March 14 leaders, especially Saad Hariri, asked what March 14 was doing to develop this relationship. Jumblatt said Saad had received money from the Saudis for cultivating both Sunnis and Shia, which he was distributing through Future MPs Okab Saqr and Bassem Saba'. He agreed with the Charge, however, that it was not possible to "buy" Shia support and that more effort was needed. He encouraged the Charge to talk directly to Saad about it or to Saudi Ambassador Khoja, and said he would do the same. Some Shia might prefer to deal directly with the Saudis, he explained. But they also need to have their own independent identity, he added."