In December 1985, Hobeika signed in the name of the LF an agreement with the Syrian government, the Druze Progressive Socialist Party (PSP) led by Walid Jumblatt, and the Shia Muslim Amal Movement headed by Nabih Berri, which became known as the Tripartite Accord.

Geagea opposed the negotiations which he claimed would make unacceptable concessions to Syria and weaken the Lebanese Christian community's political power.

On 8 January 1986, with the backing of the 9th Brigade of the Lebanese Army, then under the command of Chief of Staff Michel Aoun, the LF faction of Geagea attacked that of Hobeika in East Beirut.

[4][5] In response, on 13 January 1986, the LF faction of Hobeika attacked the positions held by the Kataeb Party militia loyal to the President Amine Gemayel.

Hobeika fled in a helicopter from East Beirut and made his way to the town of Zahle in the Syrian-controlled Beqaa Valley, where he rallied his remaining supporters to form the dissident Lebanese Forces – Executive Command (LFEC) militia sponsored by Syria.