As Hezbollah vows to defend Iran, Lebanon braces for potential spillover Lebanon once again finds itself preparing for Hezbollah’s involvement in a looming US-Iranian military confrontation. Lebanon
Kuwait blacklists eight Lebanon hospitals over alleged Hezbollah ties: What to know The affected hospitals, located in areas where Hezbollah has a heavy presence, are believed to be run by Hezbollah-affiliated institutions. Lebanon
US sanctions Hezbollah-linked gold exchange, Iran-tied shipping network The move comes as the United States pursues a deal with Iran that would curb its support for Hezbollah and other regional militias. Lebanon
Lebanon, Syria sign deal to transfer 300 Syrian prisoners: What we know Lebanon and Syria signed a deal to transfer more than 300 convicted Syrians held in Lebanese prisons to their home country to complete their sentences. Lebanon
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
What minefields await Lebanon's new president? Michel Aoun was sworn in just a week ago, and he already faces a full agenda of crucial issues as Lebanon's president. Saudi Arabia
Can Lebanon’s Old Guard forge new social contract? Lebanese citizens hope for greater accountability, independence and distance from foreign conflicts after Michel Aoun engineers breakthrough by forming a new government. Lebanon
Saudi Arabia losing ground to Iran Saudi influence in the region has been on the decline for a number of reasons, and the kingdom has now suffered another setback in Lebanon with the election of President Michel Aoun, an ally of Hezbollah. Saudi Arabia
