US approves $230M for Lebanon’s push to disarm Hezbollah

New US funds for Beirut signal rare bipartisan approval for progress by Lebanon's security forces as they dismantle Hezbollah weapons caches, but significant risks remain as the militant faction resists full disarmament.

United States

Culture

Lebanese play explores struggle between exile and staying in Lebanon

“Tarboush Jedde Maallak” is currently playing in Beirut, bringing to life the enduring struggle of exile that has resonated with every Lebanese for nearly five decades.

Lebanon

Lebanon seizes $1.5M in cocaine at Beirut airport: What to know

The country has recently stepped up its fight against drug trafficking, seizing large amounts of cocaine at ports and airports and targeting Captagon production.

Lebanon

Won’t shove it 'down our throats': Netanyahu blasts Palestine recognition in UN speech

Addressing the United Nations General Assembly, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused the leaders of countries that recognized Palestine of playing into Hamas’ hands.

Israel

Analysis

A year after Israel's pager attack, can battered Hezbollah rebound in Lebanon?

The double explosion of wireless devices that struck across Lebanon simultaneously last September left Hezbollah shocked and seemingly unable to regain the standing it once enjoyed.

By Beatrice Farhat , Adam Lucente

Beirut blast: 5 years on, Bulgaria arrest marks breakthrough in renewed probe

Bulgarian police have arrested the owner of a ship tied to the 2020 Beirut port blast as the resumed investigation progresses.

Lebanon

Lebanon announces 6.5M Captagon pills seized: What to know

Lebanese authorities said they are coordinating with their neighbors to dismantle the drug trade as neighboring Syria steps up its own efforts following border clashes.

Lebanon

Lebanon grants license to Musk's Starlink in bid to address sluggish telecomms

Starlink’s arrival in Lebanon could give businesses a vital lifeline, but the impact could be limited as long as access is restricted to corporate customers only.

Lebanon

Syria claims Hezbollah cell plotting attacks arrested in Damascus: What we know

Syrian authorities have announced the arrest of a Hezbollah cell in Damascus.

Syria

Pentagon OKs $14.2M for Lebanon's army to dismantle Hezbollah sites

The demolition gear and patrol equipment are aimed at bolstering Lebanese forces tasked with dismantling Hezbollah’s remnants amid fears of a sectarian flare-up.

Lebanon

Lebanon to move on Hezbollah disarmament after testy cabinet meeting: What to know

The Lebanese government is under mounting pressure to disarm Hezbollah, but the group’s allies in the government are not on board.

Lebanon

Analysis

Lebanon army mum on Hezbollah disarmament plan ahead of split cabinet meeting

As the Lebanese army scrambles to finalize a crucial plan for disarming Hezbollah, officials have been engaged in intense diplomacy to avoid internal confrontations and move ahead with the disarmament process.

By Beatrice Farhat

In Beirut, reporting on regional news, culture, conflict