Lebanon's financial crisis is getting worse and the international monetary fund has said that the country is in a 'dangerous state'. It has urged the government to halt borrowing from the Central bank. The IMF said that the Lebanese government committed to reforms but failed to implement it.

Four years of economic meltdown in Lebanon creating a dangerous situation

Lebanese citizens hit the streets to protest the devaluation of currency and stalled Beirut port blast probe. Ghadi Francis brings you all the details on this week's The West Asia Post.

The West Asia Post: Lebanese citizens hit the streets against corruption and crumbling economy

This week on West Asia Post, Ghadi Francis tells you about - Israeli PM faces backlash over new legal reforms, 2020 Beirut blast: Fight for justice continues, Saudi professor faces death penalty for using social media, Syria child protection law for children of unknown parentage.

The West Asia Post: Anti-legal reforms protests rock Israel | Syria's move towards better life

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday vowed to oppose any attempt to establish military outposts along Israel's borders with Lebanon and Syria, warning Iran and its Lebanese proxy Hezbollah of "red lines."

On Tuesday, Netanyahu, along with Defence Minister Yoav Gallant visited the military's Northern Command headquarters in the city of Safed. Despite the border's relative calm,&nbsp;Netanyahu seems to have adopted a combative attitude,&nbsp;The Times of Israel reported.

“The main enemy we are facing is the terror regime in Iran and its satellites in Syria and Lebanon,” Netanyahu said.

“We are determined to fight Iran’s attempts to develop a nuclear arsenal. We are determined to fight any attempt by Iran to entrench itself on our northern military frontier in Syria. We are determined to fight all attempts by Hezbollah to show aggression against us from Lebanon. And we will remind those who need to be reminded of our red lines in this matter,” The Jerusalem Post quoted Netanyahu, as saying.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionnews.com/middle-east/israel-benjamin-netanyahus-new-government-to-be-sworn-in-eli-cohen-nominated-as-foreign-minister-547692" hreflang="en">Benjamin Netanyahu sworn in as Israel's Prime Minister, heads country's most right-wing govt ever</a>

Adding that peace is an "important goal," Gallant pledged to stop Iran’s military entrenchment in Syria and to “cut off the channels used to transfer Iranian weapons to Lebanon and Hezbollah.”

“The quiet in the north is an important goal. Therefore, along with maintaining calm, we will act powerfully against any attempt to harm Israeli citizens and IDF soldiers,” he added, The Times of Israel reported.&nbsp;

Netanyahu paid a visit to the north one day after speaking to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) about the threat posed by Iran's pursuit of nuclear armament and the significance of forging a shared stance between Jerusalem and Washington against the Islamic Republic.

On Wednesday, the army is slated to undertake a military exercise in the Galilee Panhandle that includes artillery firing toward the Mount Dov region near the Lebanon border. Mount Dove, also known as Sheba Farms is a disputed territory that Israel, Lebanon, and Syria all claim as their own.

Israel and Lebanon are still technically at war, and the border witnesses occasional confrontations.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/videos/netanyahu-government-we-are-not-here-to-harm-anyone-even-palestinians-israel-548021" hreflang="en">Netanyahu Government: 'We are not here to harm anyone, even Palestinians'</a>

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Israeli Minister of Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer is currently in the US where he visited with Biden administration officials to discuss Iran and the&nbsp;US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan is scheduled to visit Israel later this month.

With a tenure spanning from 2009 until 2021, Netanyahu is the longest-serving prime minister of Israel. His return as the Prime Minister in December marks his sixth term in office.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday vowed to oppose any attempt to establish military outposts along Israel's borders with Lebanon and Syria, warning Iran and its Lebanese proxy Hezbollah of "red lines.

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday vowed to oppose any attempt to establish military outposts along Israel's borders with Lebanon and Syria, warning Iran and its Lebanese proxy Hezbollah of "red lines." On Tuesday, Netanyahu, along with Defence Minister Yoav Gallant visited the military's Northern Command headquarters in the city of Safed. Despite the border's relative calm, Netanyahu seems to have adopted a combative attitude, The Times of Israel reported. “The main enemy we are facing is the terror regime in Iran and its satellites in Syria and Lebanon,” Netanyahu said. “We are determined to fight Iran’s attempts to develop a nuclear arsenal. We are determined to fight any attempt by Iran to entrench itself on our northern military frontier in Syria. We are determined to fight all attempts by Hezbollah to show aggression against us from Lebanon. And we will remind those who need to be reminded of our red lines in this matter,” The Jerusalem Post quoted Netanyahu, as saying. Also Read | Benjamin Netanyahu sworn in as Israel's Prime Minister, heads country's most right-wing govt ever Adding that peace is an "important goal," Gallant pledged to stop Iran’s military entrenchment in Syria and to “cut off the channels used to transfer Iranian weapons to Lebanon and Hezbollah.” “The quiet in the north is an important goal. Therefore, along with maintaining calm, we will act powerfully against any attempt to harm Israeli citizens and IDF soldiers,” he added, The Times of Israel reported. Netanyahu paid a visit to the north one day after speaking to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) about the threat posed by Iran's pursuit of nuclear armament and the significance of forging a shared stance between Jerusalem and Washington against the Islamic Republic. On Wednesday, the army is slated to undertake a military exercise in the Galilee Panhandle that includes artillery firing toward the Mount Dov region near the Lebanon border. Mount Dove, also known as Sheba Farms is a disputed territory that Israel, Lebanon, and Syria all claim as their own. Israel and Lebanon are still technically at war, and the border witnesses occasional confrontations. Watch | Netanyahu Government: 'We are not here to harm anyone, even Palestinians' Israeli Minister of Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer is currently in the US where he visited with Biden administration officials to discuss Iran and the US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan is scheduled to visit Israel later this month. With a tenure spanning from 2009 until 2021, Netanyahu is the longest-serving prime minister of Israel. His return as the Prime Minister in December marks his sixth term in office. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

War games: Netanyahu warns Iran, Hezbollah of ‘red lines’ on Lebanon border

European investigators will visit Lebanon next month as part of a probe into the wealth of central bank governor Riad Salameh, a judicial official said on Tuesday.

The long-serving central bank chief, 72, is among top officials widely blamed for Lebanon's unprecedented economic crisis, dubbed one of the worst in modern global history by the World Bank.

In March, France, Germany and Luxembourg seized properties and frozen assets worth 120 million euros ($130 million) in a major operation linked to a probe launched by French investigators into Salameh's personal wealth.

"Delegations including general prosecutors and investigative judges and financial prosecutors from Germany, Luxembourg and France... will arrive in Beirut between January 9 and 20," the Lebanese judicial official told AFP.

The visit aims to conduct investigations into financial affairs linked to Salameh, the official added, requesting anonymity as he was not authorised to speak to the media.

Authorities in the three European countries notified Lebanon's general prosecutor of their intention to question "Salameh, officials at Lebanon's central bank and the heads of commercial banks", the official said.

The delegations have not requested assistance from the Lebanese judiciary, according to the official.

Lebanon opened a probe into Salameh's wealth last year after the office of Switzerland's top prosecutor requested assistance in an investigation into more than $300 million which he allegedly embezzled out of the central bank with the help of his brother.

In June, a Lebanese prosecutor probing Salameh on suspicion of financial misconduct requested charges be issued against him based on preliminary investigative findings, a court official said at the time.

Both Salameh brothers have repeatedly denied any wrongdoing.

The central bank chief has remained at the helm despite the probes and Lebanese courts imposing a travel ban on him.

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European investigators will visit Lebanon next month as part of a probe into the wealth of central bank governor Riad Salameh, a judicial official said on Tuesday.

European investigators will visit Lebanon next month as part of a probe into the wealth of central bank governor Riad Salameh, a judicial official said on Tuesday. The long-serving central bank chief, 72, is among top officials widely blamed for Lebanon's unprecedented economic crisis, dubbed one of the worst in modern global history by the World Bank. In March, France, Germany and Luxembourg seized properties and frozen assets worth 120 million euros ($130 million) in a major operation linked to a probe launched by French investigators into Salameh's personal wealth. "Delegations including general prosecutors and investigative judges and financial prosecutors from Germany, Luxembourg and France... will arrive in Beirut between January 9 and 20," the Lebanese judicial official told AFP. The visit aims to conduct investigations into financial affairs linked to Salameh, the official added, requesting anonymity as he was not authorised to speak to the media. Authorities in the three European countries notified Lebanon's general prosecutor of their intention to question "Salameh, officials at Lebanon's central bank and the heads of commercial banks", the official said. The delegations have not requested assistance from the Lebanese judiciary, according to the official. Lebanon opened a probe into Salameh's wealth last year after the office of Switzerland's top prosecutor requested assistance in an investigation into more than $300 million which he allegedly embezzled out of the central bank with the help of his brother. In June, a Lebanese prosecutor probing Salameh on suspicion of financial misconduct requested charges be issued against him based on preliminary investigative findings, a court official said at the time. Both Salameh brothers have repeatedly denied any wrongdoing. The central bank chief has remained at the helm despite the probes and Lebanese courts imposing a travel ban on him. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Europe investigators to visit Lebanon in central bank chief probe

Lebanese people experience yet another bleak Christmas season due to the country’s ongoing economic crisis. Corrupted government has created what the World Bank calls a “deliberate depression.” Watch further to know more.

The West Asia Post: Lebanese celebrate Christmas amid economic woes

Lebanon's government moved to increase tariffs on imported goods about ten-fold in a country that ships in more than 80 percent of what it consumes. With foreign currency coffers dwindling, the state has already lifted subsidies on fuel and most medication.

Lebanese government increases tariffs on imported goods

Unknown assailants opened fire on a convoy in southern Lebanon, killing one Irish UN&nbsp;peacekeeper and injuring three others, according to Irish and Lebanese military sources on Thursday. Eight Irish United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) peacekeeping officials&nbsp;were in two armoured vehicles when they were shot upon while they were travelling from the village of Al-Aqbiya north toward Beirut on Tuesday night, according to a statement from the Irish Defence Forces.

One of the three injured troops, according to the Irish military, is in critical condition. The perpetrators were not named in the statement. One peacekeeper's death and three injuries were verified by UNIFIL, but no other information was provided.

“Our thoughts are also with the local civilians who may have been injured or frightened during the incident,” UNIFIL spokesperson Andrea Tenenti said, adding that “details are sparse and conflicting.” Tenenti added that UNIFIL is coordinating with the military and trying to “determine exactly what happened.”

Also watch |&nbsp;Iran ousted from UN women's group; Russia and China oppose move

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The armoured truck carrying the peacekeepers had turned over while attempting to flee the site when it was fired upon, according to a person involved with the inquiry who spoke to the Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because they were not permitted to talk publicly about the case.

The act was condemned by Lebanon's Foreign Ministry, and a statement from the office of interim Prime Minister Najib Mikati asked for an inquiry.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-un-jaishankar-lays-out-indias-norms-for-multilateral-reforms-543141">At UN, Jaishankar reprimands Pak, China on terrorism, lays out India's 'NORMS' for reforms</a>

Residents of southern Lebanon often fight with UNIFIL soldiers. Irish peacekeepers were attacked in January in the southern village of Bint Jbeil by unidentified perpetrators, who also vandalised their cars and stole their belongings. The UN&nbsp;refuted the allegations made by the locals that they had taken photos of private properties.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Unknown assailants opened fire on a convoy in southern Lebanon, killing one Irish UN peacekeeper and injuring three others, according to Irish and Lebanese military sources on Thursday.

Unknown assailants opened fire on a convoy in southern Lebanon, killing one Irish UN peacekeeper and injuring three others, according to Irish and Lebanese military sources on Thursday. Eight Irish United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) peacekeeping officials were in two armoured vehicles when they were shot upon while they were travelling from the village of Al-Aqbiya north toward Beirut on Tuesday night, according to a statement from the Irish Defence Forces. One of the three injured troops, according to the Irish military, is in critical condition. The perpetrators were not named in the statement. One peacekeeper's death and three injuries were verified by UNIFIL, but no other information was provided. “Our thoughts are also with the local civilians who may have been injured or frightened during the incident,” UNIFIL spokesperson Andrea Tenenti said, adding that “details are sparse and conflicting.” Tenenti added that UNIFIL is coordinating with the military and trying to “determine exactly what happened.” Also watch | Iran ousted from UN women's group; Russia and China oppose move The armoured truck carrying the peacekeepers had turned over while attempting to flee the site when it was fired upon, according to a person involved with the inquiry who spoke to the Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because they were not permitted to talk publicly about the case. The act was condemned by Lebanon's Foreign Ministry, and a statement from the office of interim Prime Minister Najib Mikati asked for an inquiry. Also read | At UN, Jaishankar reprimands Pak, China on terrorism, lays out India's 'NORMS' for reforms Residents of southern Lebanon often fight with UNIFIL soldiers. Irish peacekeepers were attacked in January in the southern village of Bint Jbeil by unidentified perpetrators, who also vandalised their cars and stole their belongings. The UN refuted the allegations made by the locals that they had taken photos of private properties. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Irish UN peacekeeper killed in southern Lebanon convoy ambush, three others injured

Hezbollah is a Shia Islamist political party of Lebanon and now its leader Hassan Nasrallah said that he wants Lebanon's next President to reassure the group and stand up to the United States. This comes after the former President Michel Aoun's term expired without a successor being chosen.

Hezbollah's leader Hassan Nasrallah seeks reassurance, says 'Next President should stand up to US'

A drone struck a convoy near the Syria-Iraq border. The convoy was carrying fuel from Iran. Iran says it was destined for Lebanon.

The West Asia Post | Unknown drone attacks fuel convoy in Syria

Exclusive ground report from Beirut. Lebanon is suffering through an economic crisis since 2019. The people are trying their best to make it through the dire situation.

The West Asia Post | Beirut's people try and make ends meet

Lebanon is without a president and has a caretaker cabinet. What does this mean for the nation? Ghadi Francis tells you more on The West Asia Post.

The West Asia Post | Explainer of Lebanon's political crisis

Lebanon's President Michel Aoun has said that he is now vacating the Presidential Palace with no successor having been chosen to replace him. This decision taken by the President has come just a day before his mandate was set to expire.

Six-year long term of Lebanon's President Michel Aoun ends

Lebanon and Israel have signed a historic Maritime border deal. The deal will let both nations exploit oilfields in the Mediterranean. Ghadi Francis tells you more on #TheWestAsiaPost

The West Asia Post | Lebanon and Israel sign maritime border deal

Israeli and Lebanese leaders finalised a U.S.-brokered maritime demarcation deal on Thursday, bringing a measure of accommodation between the enemy states as they eye offshore energy exploration.

Leaders from Lebanon, Israel and the United States have all hailed the deal as "historic" but the possibility of a wider diplomatic breakthrough remains slim.

As a result, there was no joint signing ceremony: Lebanese President Michel Aoun signed a letter approving the deal at his palace in Baabda in the presence of Amos Hochstein, the U.S. official who mediated the accord.

"We have heard about the Abraham Accords. Today there is a new era. It could be the Amos Hochstein accord," said top Lebanese negotiator and deputy parliament speaker Elias Bou Saab, referring to the 2020 U.S.-brokered normalisation of ties between Israel and the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain.

Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid signed separately in Jerusalem, saying the deal was a "tremendous achievement" that had produced Lebanon's de facto recognition of Israel.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-approves-historic-sea-border-deal-with-israel-525239">Lebanon approves 'historic' sea border deal with Israel</a>

"It is not every day that an enemy country recognises the state of Israel, in a written agreement, in view of the international community," Lapid told his cabinet in broadcast remarks.

But Aoun later said the deal was purely "technical" and would have "no political dimensions or impacts that contradict Lebanon's foreign policy".

Lebanon does not recognize Israel's right to exist and still considers itself at war with its neighbour, with laws barring contact with Israeli officials.

Lower-level delegations from each country headed to the United Nations' peacekeeping base at Naqoura along their contested land border, which has yet to be delineated.

There, the delegations entered the same tent, each standing on a side of a table, and submitted their signed copies of the deal to U.S. officials and their new coordinates for the maritime border to the U.N., officially bringing the deal into force, an Israeli official and a Lebanese source told Reuters.

"I hope it will serve as a confidence-building measure that promotes more security and stability in the region and economic benefits for both countries," said the U.N.'s Special Coordinator for Lebanon Joanna Wronecka.

POLITICAL MILESTONES

The accord comes days ahead of major political milestones for both Israel and Lebanon.

Aoun's term is set to end on Oct. 31 and political sources say he was keen to seal the deal as the crowning achievement of his six years in office.

Israel holds elections on Nov. 1, its fifth in less than four years.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-says-maritime-deal-make-or-break-after-israel-snubs-request-for-changes-523166">Lebanon says maritime deal 'make or break' after Israel snubs request for changes</a>

Hochstein said the accord should be adhered to even if officials change on either side and the United States would continue to play a guarantor role to ensure it remains in force.

"If one side violates the deal, both sides lose," he said.

The accord removes one source of potential conflict between Israel and Iranian-backed Lebanese group Hezbollah and could help alleviate Lebanon's economic crisis.

An offshore energy discovery - while not enough on its own to resolve Lebanon's deep economic problems - would be a major boon, providing badly needed hard currency and possibly one day easing crippling blackouts.

Offshore areas in the eastern Mediterranean and Levant have yielded major gas discoveries in the past decade and interest has grown since Russia's invasion of Ukraine disrupted gas pipeline flows.

In a statement on Thursday, U.S. President Joe Biden said energy in the region "should not be a cause for conflict, but a tool for cooperation, stability, security and prosperity".

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-and-lebanon-reach-historic-agreement-on-maritime-border-dispute-524371">Israel and Lebanon reach 'historic agreement' on maritime border dispute, says PM Lapid</a>

Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, the head of Lebanon's powerful armed group Hezbollah, on Thursday called it a "very big victory for Lebanon."

He said the fighters and military resources that his group had mobilised as a form of pressure to ensure talks went well could now be de-activated, announcing: "Mission accomplished."

Nasrallah also said the Lebanese government had been careful to ensure that the negotiations and approval protocols had no hint of "normalization" with Israel.

&nbsp;

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Israeli and Lebanese leaders finalised a U.S.-brokered maritime demarcation deal on Thursday, bringing a measure of accommodation between the enemy states as they eye offshore energy exploration.

Israeli and Lebanese leaders finalised a U.S.-brokered maritime demarcation deal on Thursday, bringing a measure of accommodation between the enemy states as they eye offshore energy exploration. Leaders from Lebanon, Israel and the United States have all hailed the deal as "historic" but the possibility of a wider diplomatic breakthrough remains slim. As a result, there was no joint signing ceremony: Lebanese President Michel Aoun signed a letter approving the deal at his palace in Baabda in the presence of Amos Hochstein, the U.S. official who mediated the accord. "We have heard about the Abraham Accords. Today there is a new era. It could be the Amos Hochstein accord," said top Lebanese negotiator and deputy parliament speaker Elias Bou Saab, referring to the 2020 U.S.-brokered normalisation of ties between Israel and the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain. Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid signed separately in Jerusalem, saying the deal was a "tremendous achievement" that had produced Lebanon's de facto recognition of Israel. ALSO READ: Lebanon approves 'historic' sea border deal with Israel "It is not every day that an enemy country recognises the state of Israel, in a written agreement, in view of the international community," Lapid told his cabinet in broadcast remarks. But Aoun later said the deal was purely "technical" and would have "no political dimensions or impacts that contradict Lebanon's foreign policy". Lebanon does not recognize Israel's right to exist and still considers itself at war with its neighbour, with laws barring contact with Israeli officials. Lower-level delegations from each country headed to the United Nations' peacekeeping base at Naqoura along their contested land border, which has yet to be delineated. There, the delegations entered the same tent, each standing on a side of a table, and submitted their signed copies of the deal to U.S. officials and their new coordinates for the maritime border to the U.N., officially bringing the deal into force, an Israeli official and a Lebanese source told Reuters. "I hope it will serve as a confidence-building measure that promotes more security and stability in the region and economic benefits for both countries," said the U.N.'s Special Coordinator for Lebanon Joanna Wronecka. POLITICAL MILESTONES The accord comes days ahead of major political milestones for both Israel and Lebanon. Aoun's term is set to end on Oct. 31 and political sources say he was keen to seal the deal as the crowning achievement of his six years in office. Israel holds elections on Nov. 1, its fifth in less than four years. ALSO READ: Lebanon says maritime deal 'make or break' after Israel snubs request for changes Hochstein said the accord should be adhered to even if officials change on either side and the United States would continue to play a guarantor role to ensure it remains in force. "If one side violates the deal, both sides lose," he said. The accord removes one source of potential conflict between Israel and Iranian-backed Lebanese group Hezbollah and could help alleviate Lebanon's economic crisis. An offshore energy discovery - while not enough on its own to resolve Lebanon's deep economic problems - would be a major boon, providing badly needed hard currency and possibly one day easing crippling blackouts. Offshore areas in the eastern Mediterranean and Levant have yielded major gas discoveries in the past decade and interest has grown since Russia's invasion of Ukraine disrupted gas pipeline flows. In a statement on Thursday, U.S. President Joe Biden said energy in the region "should not be a cause for conflict, but a tool for cooperation, stability, security and prosperity". ALSO READ: Israel and Lebanon reach 'historic agreement' on maritime border dispute, says PM Lapid Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, the head of Lebanon's powerful armed group Hezbollah, on Thursday called it a "very big victory for Lebanon." He said the fighters and military resources that his group had mobilised as a form of pressure to ensure talks went well could now be de-activated, announcing: "Mission accomplished." Nasrallah also said the Lebanese government had been careful to ensure that the negotiations and approval protocols had no hint of "normalization" with Israel. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel, Lebanon finalise maritime demarcation deal without mutual recognition

In a rare diplomatic feat in the West Asia, Israel and Lebanon have signed a new maritime border deal. Watch this report for all the details.

Rare diplomatic feat in West Asia: Israel, Lebanon sign maritime border deal

India is hosting the 90th Interpol General Assembly from October 18th. Representatives of the 195 member countries are expected to participate in the annual meeting. Taiwan was forced to withdraw from Interpol in 1984 and cannot be a part of the global fight against international crime. Can its participation help build a safer world? Watch our special report.

Can Taiwan's participation in Interpol help build a safer world?

Lebanon and Israel have agreed on a historic maritime border deal. The new demarcations will help both sides exploit oil in the Mediterranean. The lead negotiator from Lebanon is the Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of Lebanon, Elias Bou Saab.

Straight Talk: Deputy Speaker of Lebanon's Parliament Elias Bou Saab exclusive on WION

"The presence of Hezbollah in Lebanon was a factor that helped Lebanon in the negotiation because they are a force that exists. They realise that for them to move forward they must find a solution for Lebanon as well," says Deputy Speaker of Lebanon Parliament Elias Bou Saab.

'Lebanon, Israel maritime deal is the only way forward,' says Deputy Speaker of Lebanon Parliament

Lebanon on Thursday (October 13), approved a US-mediated maritime border deal with Israel. Lebanese President Michel Aoun announced the approval. This agreement unlocks significant offshore gas production for both countries. Israel President Yair Lapid had said on Wednesday that the agreement would decrease the likelihood of a conflict with Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah.

"I announce the approval by Lebanon of the final version prepared by the American mediator to delineate the southern maritime border," the Lebanese president said in a televised speech.

Aoun described the deal as an "historic achievement". He added that Lebanon was "able to recover a disputed area of 860 square kilometres (330 square miles)".

"Lebanon did not concede a single square kilometre to Israel," he said, adding that his country had seized full control over the Qana field, despite parts of it falling within Israel's territorial waters.

"This indirect agreement responds to the Lebanese claims and fully preserves our rights," he said. 
He stressed that "no normalisation with Israel took place".

Israel and Lebanon are still technically at war. The agreement between the nation was earlier applauded by world leaders including US President Joe Biden.

In an interview with a Lebanese television station, US envoy Amos Hochstein on Thursday hailed the deal as "an agreement that could be credited for preventing chaos and further conflict throughout the region.

"In the first time in a long time, Lebanon is the answer to the problems and not the cause of it," he continued.

He added that the deal would ensure "economic prosperity for Lebanon, an assurance from conflict, securing Israel's northern borders", which he said would translate to "no war between Israel and Lebanon".

(With inputs from agencies)

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Lebanon on Thursday (October 13), approved a US-mediated maritime border deal with Israel. Lebanese President Michel Aoun announced the approval. This agreement unlocks significant offshore gas production for both countries.

Lebanon on Thursday (October 13), approved a US-mediated maritime border deal with Israel. Lebanese President Michel Aoun announced the approval. This agreement unlocks significant offshore gas production for both countries. Israel President Yair Lapid had said on Wednesday that the agreement would decrease the likelihood of a conflict with Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah. "I announce the approval by Lebanon of the final version prepared by the American mediator to delineate the southern maritime border," the Lebanese president said in a televised speech. Aoun described the deal as an "historic achievement". He added that Lebanon was "able to recover a disputed area of 860 square kilometres (330 square miles)". "Lebanon did not concede a single square kilometre to Israel," he said, adding that his country had seized full control over the Qana field, despite parts of it falling within Israel's territorial waters. "This indirect agreement responds to the Lebanese claims and fully preserves our rights," he said. He stressed that "no normalisation with Israel took place". Israel and Lebanon are still technically at war. The agreement between the nation was earlier applauded by world leaders including US President Joe Biden. In an interview with a Lebanese television station, US envoy Amos Hochstein on Thursday hailed the deal as "an agreement that could be credited for preventing chaos and further conflict throughout the region. "In the first time in a long time, Lebanon is the answer to the problems and not the cause of it," he continued. He added that the deal would ensure "economic prosperity for Lebanon, an assurance from conflict, securing Israel's northern borders", which he said would translate to "no war between Israel and Lebanon". (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Lebanon approves 'historic' sea border deal with Israel

Israel and Lebanon reached a historic agreement to resolve a long-running maritime border dispute, following months of negotiations guided by the United States.

Israel, Lebanon settle their longtime maritime border dispute

Israel and Lebanon are one step closer to finalising a maritime border deal. The clear demarcation will help both nations identify offshore oilfields in the Mediterranean.

Gravitas: Israel and Lebanon close to signing Maritime Border deal

Israel and Lebanon have reached a historic agreement settling a years-long maritime border dispute involving major oil and gas fields in the Mediterranean.

US: Israel and Lebanon agree 'historic' maritime border deal

Lebanon and Israel are getting closer to reaching a deal in a maritime border dispute between the two neighbors. The talks have been brokered by US envoy Amos Hochstein who has sought to settle longstanding competing claims.

Lebanon, Israel closer to historic deal in maritime border dispute

Lebanon and Israel are close to a maritime deal, they could strike at anytime, but the matter of the fact is the deal is yet to be reached. With those that have decades of baggage and distrust, it will not be so easy, so why is West so keen on calling it a done deal?

Lebanon, Israel maritime deal in jeopardy, former says 'make or break'

In the latest in the US mediated Maritime border negotiations between Lebanon and Israel, Israel has rejected the changes proposed by Lebanon putting the prospect of a maritime deal between the two in doubts. After talks on Thursday, Israel claimed that Lebanon had upped its demands making significant changes to the agreements.

WION Dispatch: Israel rejects Lebanon's maritime deal

The US-mediated maritime border negotiations between Lebnon and Israel has hit a bit of a roadblock. Israel has now rejected the changes that have proposed by Lebanon putting the prosects of the maritime deal in doubt.

Lebanon ups demands in maritime deal, Israel rejects proposal

Israel has rejected revisions requested by Lebanon to a US brokered border demarcation proposal throwing years of diplomatic efforts into doubt.

Israeli PM asks negotiators to reject changes sought by Lebanon

Amid Lebanon's financial meltdown, a former Lebanese ambassador held a sit-in at his bank outside the capital city of Beirut on Tuesday.

Georges Siam, Lebanon’s former Ambassador to Qatar, Turkey, Brazil and the UAE and currently the honorary consul of Ireland in Lebanon, staged a sit-in at a bank demanding that he be allowed to withdraw the usual amount of money from his account.

CNN quoted his wife Golda Siam as saying that Georges is unarmed and peaceful. “It’s our money and we don’t need to beg for it,” she remarked.

Watch |&nbsp;What's behind Lebanon's economic crisis? Why people are being forced to rob banks for their money?

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In September, Sali Hafiz, a Lebanese woman, had made headlines when she held up a bank with a toy gun. At the time, Siam had supported Hafiz and tweeted in support, “We need more of that. The lady is a hero.”

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We need more of that....The lady is a hero.God bless her. <a href="https://t.co/fL6T42fBa7">https://t.co/fL6T42fBa7</a>
— Georges H.Siam (@GeorgesHSiam) <a href="https://twitter.com/GeorgesHSiam/status/1569979919278477313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Two other men too held-up banks in Lebanon’s Beqaa Valley and Tyre on Tuesday, demanding that their savings be returned to them. They used guns and even took hostages.

On Tuesday, in yet another incident, a&nbsp;fourth bank in Tripoli was stormed by disgruntled employees of an electricity company. As per Depositors Outcry Association, an advocacy group, they were protesting against overdue salary as well as pay cuts.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/armed-man-demanding-savings-holds-beirut-bank-staff-hostage-505934">Armed man demanding savings holds Beirut bank staff hostage</a>&nbsp;

Last month saw at least seven incidents where angry depositors held up banks. Following this, banks have now taken to hiring private security companies to guard branches.

These incidents paint a grim picture of the dire living conditions that Lebanon faces amid the financial meltdown.

Corruption and mismanagement at the hands of the country's government are blamed for Lebanon's worst economic crisis ever.

Since 2019, the Lebanese pound has lost more than 95 per cent of its value on the black market. At the same time, unemployment and poverty have soared.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Amid Lebanon's financial meltdown, a former Lebanese ambassador held a sit-in at his bank outside the capital city of Beirut on Tuesday. Georges Siam, Lebanon’s former Ambassador to Qatar, Turkey, Brazil and the UAE and currently the honorary consul of Ireland in Lebanon, staged a sit-in at a bank demanding that he be allowed to withdraw the usual amount of money from his account.

Amid Lebanon's financial meltdown, a former Lebanese ambassador held a sit-in at his bank outside the capital city of Beirut on Tuesday. Georges Siam, Lebanon’s former Ambassador to Qatar, Turkey, Brazil and the UAE and currently the honorary consul of Ireland in Lebanon, staged a sit-in at a bank demanding that he be allowed to withdraw the usual amount of money from his account. CNN quoted his wife Golda Siam as saying that Georges is unarmed and peaceful. “It’s our money and we don’t need to beg for it,” she remarked. Watch | What's behind Lebanon's economic crisis? Why people are being forced to rob banks for their money? In September, Sali Hafiz, a Lebanese woman, had made headlines when she held up a bank with a toy gun. At the time, Siam had supported Hafiz and tweeted in support, “We need more of that. The lady is a hero.” We need more of that....The lady is a hero.God bless her. https://t.co/fL6T42fBa7 — Georges H.Siam (@GeorgesHSiam) September 14, 2022 × Two other men too held-up banks in Lebanon’s Beqaa Valley and Tyre on Tuesday, demanding that their savings be returned to them. They used guns and even took hostages. On Tuesday, in yet another incident, a fourth bank in Tripoli was stormed by disgruntled employees of an electricity company. As per Depositors Outcry Association, an advocacy group, they were protesting against overdue salary as well as pay cuts. Also read | Armed man demanding savings holds Beirut bank staff hostage Last month saw at least seven incidents where angry depositors held up banks. Following this, banks have now taken to hiring private security companies to guard branches. These incidents paint a grim picture of the dire living conditions that Lebanon faces amid the financial meltdown. Corruption and mismanagement at the hands of the country's government are blamed for Lebanon's worst economic crisis ever. Since 2019, the Lebanese pound has lost more than 95 per cent of its value on the black market. At the same time, unemployment and poverty have soared. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

As Lebanon economic crisis worsens, former ambassador stages sit-in at bank for 'own money'

United States proposal to resolve the maritime border dispute between Israel and Lebanon is being discussed internally by both the countries. Lebanese caretaker Prime Minister said that he will soon give out response to the deal and if finalised, it can lead to a possible profit.

WION Dispatch | Lebanon caretaker PM: Will respond to the US proposal soon

Lebanon is often held as being rich in water but due to the climate crisis its farming communities are struggling to keep their soil from drying up.

WION Climate Change | Lebanon: Farming communities struggle to keep their soil from dying

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