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

How these Syrian doctors are helping refugees in Lebanon

Amid limited resources, Syrian doctors who fled their country resume their work in Lebanon to provide the refugee population with the necessary medical treatment.

Lebanon