What challenges await Lebanon’s new government?

The newly approved Lebanese government faces many difficult issues, including adoption of an electoral law ahead of the country’s parliamentary elections in May, as the political blocs are divided over the matter.

Lebanon

Hezbollah, Israel both mum on recent escalation

Despite an escalation in Israeli attacks against Hezbollah in Syria, an all-out confrontation between them seems unlikely for the near future.

Israel

Lebanese Fatah delegates visit Palestine for first time

The visit for the first time by Lebanese Fatah delegates to attend the movement’s seventh congress has left them with a bittersweet impression of Palestine.

Palestine

As Lebanon tries to build walls, Palestinian initiatives traverse them

As the Lebanese army and Palestinian officials in the country are debating the issue of the now halted construction of a wall around the Ain al-Hilweh camp, other Palestinians are launching civil initiatives to raise awareness about the refugees’ future.

Palestine

Lebanese activists succeed in first step to repealing controversial 'rape law'

Women's rights activists say that abolishing Article 522 of the Lebanese penal code is only one step toward protecting women from sexual abuse and violence, as more laws need to be amended.

Lebanon

Is Israel being pulled into Syrian war?

With growing tension in the Golan Heights and fears of the Syrian civil war spilling over, the IDF is establishing special commando units able to confront IS-affiliated militants.

Israel

Lebanon halts work as Palestinians reject wall around refugee camp

The Lebanese government’s decision to build a wall at the southern Palestinian refugee camp of Ain al-Hilweh sparks angry reactions from Palestinian factions.

Palestine

Can coalition of reformers snag Lebanese parliament seats?

An array of civil and Reformist groups are calling for a coalition to challenge the country’s traditional and dominant political parties in the 2017 parliamentary elections.

Lebanon

Just how much can Lebanon change under Aoun?

Lebanese President Michel Aoun’s plans for economic and political reform will face numerous challenges including endemic corruption and his own limited powers.

Lebanon

Will Lebanon's new president give up on old friends?

Mohammad Javad Zarif became the first foreign minister to personally congratulate Lebanon’s new president, but what does the Iranian rush really say about the geopolitical game being played out in Beirut?

Legacy: Gulf

Why Iranian-Saudi game in Lebanon is far from over

Iranian officials were quick to congratulate Michel Aoun on becoming president of Lebanon, while their Saudi rivals, not so pleased with his new position, took a little longer.

Saudi Arabia

Russia emerges as a center of gravity for Israel

Given that Russia’s influence in the Middle East excluding Syria remains limited, Moscow is looking for other entry points — but can Israel offer such an opportunity?

Palestine