Dozens of Lebanese and Syrians have tried to make the illicit sea crossing to Cyprus in recent weeks, fleeing Lebanon’s worst economic crisis in decades. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: Lebanese people flee to Cyprus, Lebanon economic crisis

The United States Treasury on Thursday imposed sanctions on two&nbsp;Lebanon-based firms&nbsp;for allegedly funnelling millions to Hezbollah.

The US Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control, or OFAC, sanctioned the companies Arch Consulting and Meamar Construction ''for being owned, controlled, or directed by Hezbollah.''

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sanctions-against-lebanon-allies-unjust-says-hezbollah-326375">US sanctions against Lebanon allies 'unjust', says Hezbollah</a>

OFAC also sanctioned Sultan Khalifah Asaad, saying that he is a Hezbollah official closely associated with both companies.

''Hezbollah leverages Arch and Meamar to conceal money transfers to Hezbollah's own accounts, further enriching Hezbollah's leadership and supporters, and depriving the Lebanese people of much-needed funds,''&nbsp;the Treasury said.

The US&nbsp;move comes at a sensitive time, as a new government is being formed under a tight deadline in a bid to extricate Lebanon from a deep economic crisis that poses the biggest threat to the country's stability since the 1975-1990 civil war.

The country is also facing a political deadlock amid delays in the formation of a new, crisis Cabinet, because of a portfolio dispute.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-return-to-the-united-nations-to-reimpose-sanctions-on-iran-pompeo-328022">We will return to the United Nations to reimpose sanctions on Iran: Pompeo</a>

&nbsp;The United States considers the Iran-backed Hezbollah a terrorist organisation and has imposed sanctions on many of the militant group's officials in the past.

Last week, Lebanese Shiite movement Hezbollah had condemned&nbsp;US sanctions against two former ministers from allied political parties over alleged corruption and aid to the group.

"We view this unjust decision as a badge of honour for our two dear friends," the Iran-backed movement had said in a statement after Washington&nbsp;blacklisted and imposed sanctions on former finance minister Ali Hassan Khalil and ex-transport minister Youssef Fenianos.

The United States Treasury on Thursday imposed sanctions on two Lebanon-based firms for allegedly funnelling millions to Hezbollah. The US Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control, or OFAC, sanctioned the companies Arch Consulting and Meamar Construction ''for being owned, controlled, or directed by Hezbollah.

The United States Treasury on Thursday imposed sanctions on two Lebanon-based firms for allegedly funnelling millions to Hezbollah. The US Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control, or OFAC, sanctioned the companies Arch Consulting and Meamar Construction ''for being owned, controlled, or directed by Hezbollah.'' Also read: US sanctions against Lebanon allies 'unjust', says Hezbollah OFAC also sanctioned Sultan Khalifah Asaad, saying that he is a Hezbollah official closely associated with both companies. ''Hezbollah leverages Arch and Meamar to conceal money transfers to Hezbollah's own accounts, further enriching Hezbollah's leadership and supporters, and depriving the Lebanese people of much-needed funds,'' the Treasury said. The US move comes at a sensitive time, as a new government is being formed under a tight deadline in a bid to extricate Lebanon from a deep economic crisis that poses the biggest threat to the country's stability since the 1975-1990 civil war. The country is also facing a political deadlock amid delays in the formation of a new, crisis Cabinet, because of a portfolio dispute. Also read: We will return to the United Nations to reimpose sanctions on Iran: Pompeo The United States considers the Iran-backed Hezbollah a terrorist organisation and has imposed sanctions on many of the militant group's officials in the past. Last week, Lebanese Shiite movement Hezbollah had condemned US sanctions against two former ministers from allied political parties over alleged corruption and aid to the group. "We view this unjust decision as a badge of honour for our two dear friends," the Iran-backed movement had said in a statement after Washington blacklisted and imposed sanctions on former finance minister Ali Hassan Khalil and ex-transport minister Youssef Fenianos.

US sanctions Lebanese companies for allegedly funnelling millions to Hezbollah

Lebanese soldiers fired rubber bullets and live rounds in air as hundreds of protesters tried to march to the presidential place. It was an anti-government demonstration the call for which was given in the Baabda suburb of Beirut.

There is still a lot of anger against the government among the citizens after the devastating blast at the Beirut port. The blast killed nearly 200 people and injured 6500. To add to the scare, another mysterious and huge blaze was seen at the same site on Thursday.

As the protesters gathered in Baabda where the presidential palace is located, a counter-protest was organised by supporters of Lebanese President Michel Aoun at the same location.

Lebanese soldiers intervened to avoid clashes between the two groups and stood between them. They also blocked the way to the presidential palace.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-condemns-bahrain-but-will-more-arab-countries-befriend-israel-in-near-future-327103">Hezbollah condemns Bahrain, but will more Arab countries befriend Israel in near future?</a>

As some of anti-government protesters attempted to break the security cordon and tried to make a dash for the presidential palace, soldiers shot rubber bullets and live rounds in the air.

The anger persists in the country as it is not yet known who was responsible for the Beirut blast. The catastrophe proved to be a tipping point for the collective public anger against years of government mismanagement that has resulted in a deep economic and financial crisis in Lebanon. 
&nbsp;

Lebanese soldiers fired rubber bullets and live rounds in air as hundreds of protesters tried to march to the presidential place. It was an anti-government demonstration the call for which was given in the Baabda suburb of Beirut.

Lebanese soldiers fired rubber bullets and live rounds in air as hundreds of protesters tried to march to the presidential place. It was an anti-government demonstration the call for which was given in the Baabda suburb of Beirut. There is still a lot of anger against the government among the citizens after the devastating blast at the Beirut port. The blast killed nearly 200 people and injured 6500. To add to the scare, another mysterious and huge blaze was seen at the same site on Thursday. As the protesters gathered in Baabda where the presidential palace is located, a counter-protest was organised by supporters of Lebanese President Michel Aoun at the same location. Lebanese soldiers intervened to avoid clashes between the two groups and stood between them. They also blocked the way to the presidential palace. Also Read | Hezbollah condemns Bahrain, but will more Arab countries befriend Israel in near future? As some of anti-government protesters attempted to break the security cordon and tried to make a dash for the presidential palace, soldiers shot rubber bullets and live rounds in the air. The anger persists in the country as it is not yet known who was responsible for the Beirut blast. The catastrophe proved to be a tipping point for the collective public anger against years of government mismanagement that has resulted in a deep economic and financial crisis in Lebanon.

Fresh anti-government protests break out in Lebanon, soldiers fire rounds in air to disperse crowd

Lebanon has approved a new work contract allowing foreign domestic workers to resign and keep hold of their own passport, but activists say the exploitative "kafala" system remains in place.

The economic crisis-hit Mediterranean country is home to around 250,000 migrants, mostly women from Africa and Asia, who toil away in people's homes as housekeepers, carers or nannies.

They are not protected by the country's labour law, but instead work under a set of laws, policies and customs called kafala repeatedly slammed by rights groups as allowing a wide range of abuse.

Under kafala, meaning "sponsorship" in Arabic, the employer sponsors the worker's legal immigration status in the country, and the latter cannot resign without their consent or they become undocumented. The law also does not ban withholding a worker's passport.

All this leaves a worker at the employer's mercy.

Lebanon's economic and coronavirus crises have increased the urgency for reform over the past year, with many families now paying their workers in the devaluated local currency, and some not at all.

In recent months, dozens of foreign helpers have been thrown out into the streets without due pay or even their passport, many of them interviewed by AFP.

After the August 4 blast at Beirut port that devastated swathes of the capital and killed more than 190 people, foreign workers have staged rallies outside their consulates appealing to be sent home.

The labour ministry finally this month published a new and revised work contract for domestic workers, the main legal document governing their stay in Lebanon.

- Private room, holidays -

Outgoing labour minister Lamia Yammine has said the new contract -- to replace a 2009 version -- "abolishes the kafala system".

Campaigners have welcomed the detailed five-page document outlining workers' rights, but say it is only a beginning.

"It is no doubt a much better version than the older one," said Amnesty International researcher Diala Haidar. But "a contract alone doesn't end kafala."

Most importantly, the new contract gives the workers the right to resign and change employers, and says they can keep their passport.

If their employer withholds their wages or passport, they can immediately quit without notice.

It finally gives the worker the right to the national minimum wage of 675,000 pounds ($450 before the crisis, less than $100 at the black market rate) -- albeit allowing the substraction of an undetermined amount to cover food, board and clothes.

The new contract states workers must be provided with a private, well-ventilated room with a key, an improvement after many women said they were forced to sleep in the living room or on a balcony.

It limits labour to eight hours a day in a six-day week, and details the right to daily rest, paid holidays and sick leave.

- Ink on paper? -

But activists warn that all these new provisions will amount to nothing without inspections and unless employers violating the agreement are held accountable.

"In the absence of an enforcement mechanism, this contract will remain ink on paper," Haidar said.

The old contract, for example, states the worker must receive their wages at the end of the month, but this had not stopped some from kicking out workers without pay.

"We haven't seen any employers held to account for this breach of the contract," she said.

A Beirut housewife, who employs a Filipina domestic worker, insisted there are two sides to the story.

"The employer needs to keep at least one document as security... I know some employers are bad but also some employees are ungrateful," the 59-year-old said, asking not to be named.

Rights groups have documented manifold abuses over the years, including no day off, locking workers inside the house, and physical or sexual assault.

Activists have reported up to two deaths a week.

They have repeatedly called for an end to kafala, which is common in the Middle East and often compared to modern-day slavery.

Zeina Mezher of the International Labour Organization (ILO) called the new contract "one step in the right direction" towards dismantling kafala.

But it's just "the first step on a road that is still complicated", she said.

She said support was needed to ensure a worker could resign without losing their residency permit.

Activists have also called for parliament to amend the labour law to bring all domestic workers -- Lebanese and foreign -- under its protection, and give them the right to set up unions.

Lebanon has approved a new work contract allowing foreign domestic workers to resign and keep hold of their own passport, but activists say the exploitative "kafala" system remains in place.

Lebanon has approved a new work contract allowing foreign domestic workers to resign and keep hold of their own passport, but activists say the exploitative "kafala" system remains in place. The economic crisis-hit Mediterranean country is home to around 250,000 migrants, mostly women from Africa and Asia, who toil away in people's homes as housekeepers, carers or nannies. They are not protected by the country's labour law, but instead work under a set of laws, policies and customs called kafala repeatedly slammed by rights groups as allowing a wide range of abuse. Under kafala, meaning "sponsorship" in Arabic, the employer sponsors the worker's legal immigration status in the country, and the latter cannot resign without their consent or they become undocumented. The law also does not ban withholding a worker's passport. All this leaves a worker at the employer's mercy. Lebanon's economic and coronavirus crises have increased the urgency for reform over the past year, with many families now paying their workers in the devaluated local currency, and some not at all. In recent months, dozens of foreign helpers have been thrown out into the streets without due pay or even their passport, many of them interviewed by AFP. After the August 4 blast at Beirut port that devastated swathes of the capital and killed more than 190 people, foreign workers have staged rallies outside their consulates appealing to be sent home. The labour ministry finally this month published a new and revised work contract for domestic workers, the main legal document governing their stay in Lebanon. - Private room, holidays - Outgoing labour minister Lamia Yammine has said the new contract -- to replace a 2009 version -- "abolishes the kafala system". Campaigners have welcomed the detailed five-page document outlining workers' rights, but say it is only a beginning. "It is no doubt a much better version than the older one," said Amnesty International researcher Diala Haidar. But "a contract alone doesn't end kafala." Most importantly, the new contract gives the workers the right to resign and change employers, and says they can keep their passport. If their employer withholds their wages or passport, they can immediately quit without notice. It finally gives the worker the right to the national minimum wage of 675,000 pounds ($450 before the crisis, less than $100 at the black market rate) -- albeit allowing the substraction of an undetermined amount to cover food, board and clothes. The new contract states workers must be provided with a private, well-ventilated room with a key, an improvement after many women said they were forced to sleep in the living room or on a balcony. It limits labour to eight hours a day in a six-day week, and details the right to daily rest, paid holidays and sick leave. - Ink on paper? - But activists warn that all these new provisions will amount to nothing without inspections and unless employers violating the agreement are held accountable. "In the absence of an enforcement mechanism, this contract will remain ink on paper," Haidar said. The old contract, for example, states the worker must receive their wages at the end of the month, but this had not stopped some from kicking out workers without pay. "We haven't seen any employers held to account for this breach of the contract," she said. A Beirut housewife, who employs a Filipina domestic worker, insisted there are two sides to the story. "The employer needs to keep at least one document as security... I know some employers are bad but also some employees are ungrateful," the 59-year-old said, asking not to be named. Rights groups have documented manifold abuses over the years, including no day off, locking workers inside the house, and physical or sexual assault. Activists have reported up to two deaths a week. They have repeatedly called for an end to kafala, which is common in the Middle East and often compared to modern-day slavery. Zeina Mezher of the International Labour Organization (ILO) called the new contract "one step in the right direction" towards dismantling kafala. But it's just "the first step on a road that is still complicated", she said. She said support was needed to ensure a worker could resign without losing their residency permit. Activists have also called for parliament to amend the labour law to bring all domestic workers -- Lebanese and foreign -- under its protection, and give them the right to set up unions.

Lebanon's new domestic worker contract: end to 'kafala slavery'?

Before starting the second phase of funding for blast-hit Lebanon, the&nbsp;European Union's commissioner for crisis management has called for an urgent formation of a "credible" government.

The EU has, till now, mobilised close to $79 million (64 million euros) as an emergency response to the country after Beirut was rocked by a devastating explosion at the port, killing nearly 200 people and injuring several thousands in the early days of August this year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beirut-fire-could-be-due-to-sabotage-ignorance-or-negligence-president-aoun-326586">Also read|&nbsp;Beirut fire could be due to sabotage, ignorance or negligence: President Aoun</a>

However, Janez Lenarcic has now said that the next round of funding will only be provided after Lebanon forms a credible government.

The next round of funding, which is supposed to help the government in restructuring the port and other structures, ave to wait as funding would have to go hand in hand with reforms because the international community was not willing to support practices "that led to financial collapse and economic crisis".

"We need a credible government that enjoys the confidence of the Lebanese people and is determined to take the country in the right direction," Lenarcic said.

"Lebanon's political class has to provide what people demand and this is also what the international community expects. I'm talking about governance, not only economic reforms. There has to be a change in the way this place is governed," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-signs-of-life-in-rubble-after-three-day-search-for-beirut-blast-survivors-rescue-workers-325474">Also Read|&nbsp;'No signs of life' in rubble after three-day search for Beirut blast survivors</a>

The statement has come after Lebanon rejected an international investigation claiming the country will carry out an investigation on its own — which has brought back the long-lying issue of corruption within the government.

"The EU commission supports reaching an agreement with the IMF because that would unlock substantial resources that Lebanon desperately needs to revive its economy," Lenarcic said.

Lebanon was already suffering through an economic crisis due to coronavirus and the locals were alleging the government of being corrupt, when Beirut ports experienced the biggest explosion the country has seen in years, and destroyed structures and took hundreds of lives.

A month after the explosion, another massive fire broke out at Beirut port engulfing a warehouse that was storing&nbsp;engine oil and vehicle tyres. In response,&nbsp;President Michel Aoun said, "Today's fire could be an intentional act of sabotage, the result of a technical error, ignorance, or negligence. In all cases, the cause needs to be known as soon as possible, and those responsible held to account."

Before starting the second phase of funding for blast-hit Lebanon, the European Union's commissioner for crisis management has called for an urgent formation of a "credible" government.

Before starting the second phase of funding for blast-hit Lebanon, the European Union's commissioner for crisis management has called for an urgent formation of a "credible" government. The EU has, till now, mobilised close to $79 million (64 million euros) as an emergency response to the country after Beirut was rocked by a devastating explosion at the port, killing nearly 200 people and injuring several thousands in the early days of August this year. Also read| Beirut fire could be due to sabotage, ignorance or negligence: President Aoun However, Janez Lenarcic has now said that the next round of funding will only be provided after Lebanon forms a credible government. The next round of funding, which is supposed to help the government in restructuring the port and other structures, ave to wait as funding would have to go hand in hand with reforms because the international community was not willing to support practices "that led to financial collapse and economic crisis". "We need a credible government that enjoys the confidence of the Lebanese people and is determined to take the country in the right direction," Lenarcic said. "Lebanon's political class has to provide what people demand and this is also what the international community expects. I'm talking about governance, not only economic reforms. There has to be a change in the way this place is governed," he said. Also Read| 'No signs of life' in rubble after three-day search for Beirut blast survivors The statement has come after Lebanon rejected an international investigation claiming the country will carry out an investigation on its own — which has brought back the long-lying issue of corruption within the government. "The EU commission supports reaching an agreement with the IMF because that would unlock substantial resources that Lebanon desperately needs to revive its economy," Lenarcic said. Lebanon was already suffering through an economic crisis due to coronavirus and the locals were alleging the government of being corrupt, when Beirut ports experienced the biggest explosion the country has seen in years, and destroyed structures and took hundreds of lives. A month after the explosion, another massive fire broke out at Beirut port engulfing a warehouse that was storing engine oil and vehicle tyres. In response, President Michel Aoun said, "Today's fire could be an intentional act of sabotage, the result of a technical error, ignorance, or negligence. In all cases, the cause needs to be known as soon as possible, and those responsible held to account."

Lebanon: EU demands more 'credible' government before second phase of funding

A huge fire has broken out at the Port of Beirut, triggering panic in the area just a month after a massive explosion there killed almost 200 people and injured 6,500 others.

Beirut port fire just a month after Beirut explosion

Lebanon's President Michel Aoun is at the centre of a new scandal after it was revealed that tea donated by Sri Lanka for victims of the Beirut blast was distributed to families of his presidential guards.

Lebanese President at centre of new scandal: President gave tea to members of entourage

Lebanon's President Michel Aoun has come under fire after it emerged that tea donated by Sri Lanka for victims of the Beirut blast was distributed instead to families of his presidential guards.

Also read:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/not-a-drop-of-oil-leak-into-sea-from-mt-new-diamond-cargo-hold-says-director-general-of-indian-coast-guard-326344" hreflang="en">Not a drop of oil leak into sea from MT New diamond cargo hold, says Director General of Indian Coast Guard</a>

Critics see it as yet another example of official corruption in a country reeling from the August 4 explosion that killed more than 190 people, wounded thousands and ravaged central Beirut.

Sri Lanka, many of whose expat community in Lebanon work as housemaids, was one of several nations that rushed to show support in the wake of Lebanon's worst peace-time disaster.

The president's office on August 24 released a picture of Aoun receiving the Sri Lankan ambassador, and quoted her as saying Colombo had "donated 1,675 kilos (3,685 pounds) of Ceylon tea to those affected by the Beirut blast".

After Lebanese media and social media asked what happened to the donation, it issued a second statement on Tuesday.

The presidency said Aoun had written to his Sri Lankan counterpart to thank him for "a gift of Ceylon tea that had been received by the army... and distributed to the families of soldiers in the presidential guard".

Social media erupted in criticism, with the hashtags "tea thief" and "Ceylon tea" trending on Twitter.

"The tea was sent to the Lebanese, particularly those affected by the explosion. Of course it wasn't a present for those who don't need it," wrote Paula Yacoubian, a former MP who resigned after the blast many blame on official neglect.

"Distributing the aid to your entourage is shameful," she wrote.

Another user quipped: "The excuse that it was a present for the president is even worse than the sin itself."

Beside the tea controversy, social media users have also been up in arms over the fate of 12 tonnes of fish that Mauritania sent in mid-August.

After widespread calls to know its whereabouts, the army said Monday it had received the fish and "stored it according to public safety standards".

It was talking to several associations preparing meals for those in need "to cook it and distribute it to those affected by the port blast".

On Twitter, yet another user made light of the food aid controversy.

"The presidential palace, or the palace of the people, invites you to a free lunch on Sunday," she wrote.

"Open buffet on Mauritanian fish, and open bar on Ceylon tea."

Lebanon's President Michel Aoun has come under fire after it emerged that tea donated by Sri Lanka for victims of the Beirut blast was distributed instead to families of his presidential guards.

Lebanon's President Michel Aoun has come under fire after it emerged that tea donated by Sri Lanka for victims of the Beirut blast was distributed instead to families of his presidential guards. Also read: Not a drop of oil leak into sea from MT New diamond cargo hold, says Director General of Indian Coast Guard Critics see it as yet another example of official corruption in a country reeling from the August 4 explosion that killed more than 190 people, wounded thousands and ravaged central Beirut. Sri Lanka, many of whose expat community in Lebanon work as housemaids, was one of several nations that rushed to show support in the wake of Lebanon's worst peace-time disaster. The president's office on August 24 released a picture of Aoun receiving the Sri Lankan ambassador, and quoted her as saying Colombo had "donated 1,675 kilos (3,685 pounds) of Ceylon tea to those affected by the Beirut blast". After Lebanese media and social media asked what happened to the donation, it issued a second statement on Tuesday. The presidency said Aoun had written to his Sri Lankan counterpart to thank him for "a gift of Ceylon tea that had been received by the army... and distributed to the families of soldiers in the presidential guard". Social media erupted in criticism, with the hashtags "tea thief" and "Ceylon tea" trending on Twitter. "The tea was sent to the Lebanese, particularly those affected by the explosion. Of course it wasn't a present for those who don't need it," wrote Paula Yacoubian, a former MP who resigned after the blast many blame on official neglect. "Distributing the aid to your entourage is shameful," she wrote. Another user quipped: "The excuse that it was a present for the president is even worse than the sin itself." Beside the tea controversy, social media users have also been up in arms over the fate of 12 tonnes of fish that Mauritania sent in mid-August. After widespread calls to know its whereabouts, the army said Monday it had received the fish and "stored it according to public safety standards". It was talking to several associations preparing meals for those in need "to cook it and distribute it to those affected by the port blast". On Twitter, yet another user made light of the food aid controversy. "The presidential palace, or the palace of the people, invites you to a free lunch on Sunday," she wrote. "Open buffet on Mauritanian fish, and open bar on Ceylon tea."

Sri Lanka tea storm swirls around Lebanon president

A massive fire is raging at the port of Lebanon's capital, Beirut, a little more than a month after a huge explosion devastated the port facilities and surrounding area.

Lebanon: Massive fire erupts in Beirut port area

Standing in a pile of broken glass in northern Lebanon, a man forced shovel-loads of shards retrieved from Beirut after the massive explosion at its port into a red-hot furnace. Melted down at a factory in second city Tripoli, they re-emerged as molten glass ready to be recycled into traditional slim-necked water jugs.

Beirut: Recycling glass debris to make beautiful glassware

Rescue workers on Saturday said that there was no longer hope of finding someone alive more than a month after a massive port explosion shattered Lebanon's capital.

Rescue workers on Saturday said that there was no longer hope of finding someone alive more than a month after a massive port explosion shattered Lebanon's capital. These workers have been digging through the rubble of a Beirut building for the third day. Around 50 workers and volunteers, including a specialist team from Chile, had worked for three days to locate anyone after sensors on Thursday detected signs of breathing and heat. "Technically speaking, there are no signs of life," Francisco Lermanta, the head of volunteer rescue group Topos Chile, said in a news conference on Saturday evening, adding that rescuers had combed 95 per cent of the building. According to Lermanta, signs of life in the rubble were detected in the past two days and breaths of fellow rescuers already inside the building picked up by their sensitive equipment. However, he said that now the workers will be focusing on clearing the rubble and finding remains. "We never stop with even one percent of hope," Lermanta said, of finding a body. "We never stop until the job is done." The explosion on August 4 obliterated part of the port and caused damage over a wide radius in the heart of the city. It killed about 190 people, injured 6,000 more Officials blamed the blast on a huge stockpile of highly explosive material stored for years in unsafe conditions at the port. Up to a quarter of a million people were left without homes fit to live in, officials said, after shockwaves smashed building facades, sucked furniture out into streets and shattered windows miles inland. Residential districts of Gemmayze and Mar Mikhael were among the hardest hit as home to many old buildings that crumbled as the shockwave ripped through. Work was slow, rescue workers said earlier in the day, as the badly damaged building was at risk of complete collapse. "The building is really crumbling, it's scary and there's a lot of danger to the team," Abou Moussa said. Workers used shovels and their hands to dig, while mechanical diggers and a crane lifted heavy debris. Scanning equipment was also used to create 3D images of the wrecked building. (Inputs from Agency)

'No signs of life' in rubble after three-day search for Beirut blast survivors: Rescue workers

Rescue and salvage teams are still working in Beirut, large parts of which lie in devastated condition one&nbsp;month after the blast.

September 4 marked the completion of a month of the blast that killed at least 180 people and injured around 6,000. The blast took place at Beirut port where 2759 tonnes of highly flammable ammonium nitrate was stored.

Rescue workers are still digging the rubble in the hope&nbsp;of finding survivors.

Rescue workers detect&nbsp;"heartbeat"&nbsp;under debris:

Rescue workers had detected a 'heartbeat' or a pulse on their sensor equipments in Mar Mikhael in Beirut. Head of the Chilean rescue team even told reporters on Friday that slow breathing had been detected under the rubble.

The workers then set about digging the area. However, no living person or a body was found till Saturday afternoon.

Rescuers are using scanning equipment to create 3D images of the wrecked building, which once housed a bar on its ground floor, to try to locate anyone alive, television showed.

The localities of Gemmayze and Mar Mikhael have been hardest hit due to the explosion.

City mourns the tragedy:

Authorities in Beirut held ceremonies on September 4 to mark one month of the tragedy that dealt a heavy blow to the city already reeling under economic crisis.

Lebanese government under Hassan Diab resigned in the aftermath of the blast. New government has a huge task ahead of it as Beirut residents are angry and not afraid to express it. Residents still feel that the government is not doing enough to address the situation.

"The government has been completely complacent, has been completely absent," said Stephanie Bou Chedid, a volunteer from a group helping victims of the blast. She was quoted by Reuters.

President Michel Aoun followed up on the operation in a phone call with the civil defence head, the presidency said.

Mohamed Houry, 65, said he hoped someone was alive but, even if only bodies were uncovered, "it`s important their families can find peace". 
&nbsp;

Rescue and salvage teams are still working in Beirut, large parts of which lie in devastated condition one month after the blast. September 4 marked the completion of a month of the blast that killed at least 180 people and injured around 6,000.

Rescue and salvage teams are still working in Beirut, large parts of which lie in devastated condition one month after the blast. September 4 marked the completion of a month of the blast that killed at least 180 people and injured around 6,000. The blast took place at Beirut port where 2759 tonnes of highly flammable ammonium nitrate was stored. Rescue workers are still digging the rubble in the hope of finding survivors. Rescue workers detect "heartbeat" under debris: Rescue workers had detected a 'heartbeat' or a pulse on their sensor equipments in Mar Mikhael in Beirut. Head of the Chilean rescue team even told reporters on Friday that slow breathing had been detected under the rubble. The workers then set about digging the area. However, no living person or a body was found till Saturday afternoon. Rescuers are using scanning equipment to create 3D images of the wrecked building, which once housed a bar on its ground floor, to try to locate anyone alive, television showed. The localities of Gemmayze and Mar Mikhael have been hardest hit due to the explosion. City mourns the tragedy: Authorities in Beirut held ceremonies on September 4 to mark one month of the tragedy that dealt a heavy blow to the city already reeling under economic crisis. Lebanese government under Hassan Diab resigned in the aftermath of the blast. New government has a huge task ahead of it as Beirut residents are angry and not afraid to express it. Residents still feel that the government is not doing enough to address the situation. "The government has been completely complacent, has been completely absent," said Stephanie Bou Chedid, a volunteer from a group helping victims of the blast. She was quoted by Reuters. President Michel Aoun followed up on the operation in a phone call with the civil defence head, the presidency said. Mohamed Houry, 65, said he hoped someone was alive but, even if only bodies were uncovered, "it`s important their families can find peace".

Beirut blast: One month later, rescue workers still search for survivors

The World Bank said Friday it was canceling a loan to fund a dam in Lebanon that environmentalists claimed could destroy a valley rich in biodiversity.

The Bisri Dam was partially suspended in June after the Washington-based development lender said it raised concerns about the project's implementation, and given the government of Lebanon until September 4 to finalize key agreements related to operations and maintenance as well as the environment.

In a statement, the World Bank said it had notified the government that it was withdrawing its financing "due to non-completion of the tasks that are preconditions to the commencement of construction."

"The canceled portion of the loan is $244 million and the cancelation is effective immediately," the bank said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/one-month-of-deadly-blast-people-in-lebanon-observed-one-minute-of-silence-325344">Also read:&nbsp;One month of deadly blast, people in Lebanon observed one minute of silence</a>

Located in a valley 30 kilometres (20 miles) south of the capital, the dam aims to supply drinking water as well as irrigation for 1.6 million residents.

Environmentalists and some farmers had disputed assurances from the government and the World Bank that the dam, to be built on a seismic fault line, does not increase the risk of earthquakes.

Roland Nassour, an activist who has campaigned against the project, said he was delighted the loan had been cancelled.

"Today one of the corruption deals in the country has collapsed," said Nassour, the coordinator of the Save Bisri initiative, adding that popular anger had made the project a "burden" for the global lender.

'Glimmer of hope'

Eddy Akl, the owner of land expropriated by the state to build the dam, said the loan's withdrawal was a step in the right direction.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beirut-blast-has-caused-trauma-to-600000-children-says-unicef-325388">Also read:&nbsp;Beirut blast has caused trauma to 600,000 children, says Unicef</a>

"The decision is of course positive. But our other battle will be for the state to hand us back our land," he said.&nbsp;

"It's a glimmer of hope, but no one knows what the state has in store for us next."

On social media, users shared the image of a stork flying across a valley in blossom, carrying a banner that read: "We saved the Bisri valley."

"Finally some good news in 2020," one wrote.

Gebran Bassil, the head of the president's Free Patriotic Movement political party and a backer of the project, claimed the Lebanese public would ask for a dam again soon.

"There will come a day when the Lebanese state, and with it the people of Beirut, Jezzine, Saida, Chouf, Baabda and Aley will ask for the Bisri dam to be funded," he wrote on Twitter.

"The need for water will become apparent... and nothing will do except to secure a new loan to return to the same dam."

The World Bank said Friday it was canceling a loan to fund a dam in Lebanon that environmentalists claimed could destroy a valley rich in biodiversity. The Bisri Dam was partially suspended in June after the Washington-based development lender said it raised concerns about the project's implementation, and given the government of Lebanon until September 4 to finalize key agreements related to operations and maintenance as well as the environment.

The World Bank said Friday it was canceling a loan to fund a dam in Lebanon that environmentalists claimed could destroy a valley rich in biodiversity. The Bisri Dam was partially suspended in June after the Washington-based development lender said it raised concerns about the project's implementation, and given the government of Lebanon until September 4 to finalize key agreements related to operations and maintenance as well as the environment. In a statement, the World Bank said it had notified the government that it was withdrawing its financing "due to non-completion of the tasks that are preconditions to the commencement of construction." "The canceled portion of the loan is $244 million and the cancelation is effective immediately," the bank said. Also read: One month of deadly blast, people in Lebanon observed one minute of silence Located in a valley 30 kilometres (20 miles) south of the capital, the dam aims to supply drinking water as well as irrigation for 1.6 million residents. Environmentalists and some farmers had disputed assurances from the government and the World Bank that the dam, to be built on a seismic fault line, does not increase the risk of earthquakes. Roland Nassour, an activist who has campaigned against the project, said he was delighted the loan had been cancelled. "Today one of the corruption deals in the country has collapsed," said Nassour, the coordinator of the Save Bisri initiative, adding that popular anger had made the project a "burden" for the global lender. 'Glimmer of hope' Eddy Akl, the owner of land expropriated by the state to build the dam, said the loan's withdrawal was a step in the right direction. Also read: Beirut blast has caused trauma to 600,000 children, says Unicef "The decision is of course positive. But our other battle will be for the state to hand us back our land," he said. "It's a glimmer of hope, but no one knows what the state has in store for us next." On social media, users shared the image of a stork flying across a valley in blossom, carrying a banner that read: "We saved the Bisri valley." "Finally some good news in 2020," one wrote. Gebran Bassil, the head of the president's Free Patriotic Movement political party and a backer of the project, claimed the Lebanese public would ask for a dam again soon. "There will come a day when the Lebanese state, and with it the people of Beirut, Jezzine, Saida, Chouf, Baabda and Aley will ask for the Bisri dam to be funded," he wrote on Twitter. "The need for water will become apparent... and nothing will do except to secure a new loan to return to the same dam."

World Bank cancels loan for controversial Lebanon dam

People in Lebanon observed a minute of silence, marking the passing of one month since the devastating Beirut Port explosion that shook the country and in honour of the 190 people killed by the blast.

One month of deadly blast, people in Lebanon observed one minute of silence

Rescue workers in Beirut dug through the rubble of a collapsed building with their hands on Friday after signs of life were detected under a mound of debris one month after a huge explosion shattered the capital.

Beirut blast: Rescue workers trace signs of life under debris

Rescue and salvage efforts are ongoing a month after the deadly explosion in Beirut that claimed around&nbsp;200 lives. Rescuers detected a 'heartbeat' under the rubble which set off speculation that a person may be b uried and still alive under the debris. The reports are unconfirmed at this point.

However, special sensor equipments were sent to Mar MiKhael area to probe the possibility of a living person trapped under the debris.

"These (signs of breathing and pulse) along with the temperature sensor means there is a possibility of life," rescue worker Eddy Bitar told reporters at the scene. he was quoted by Reuters.

The search was initially suspended overnight but voluteers continued working.

Also Read: <a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/half-of-lebanons-population-could-face-food-crisis-after-beirut-port-blast-un-324103">Half of Lebanon's population could face food crisis after Beirut port blast: UN</a> 
&nbsp;

News of the rescue prompted crowds to form at the rescue site, who grew angry as rescue efforts were paused in a city desperate for hope.

What's latest on Beirut explosion?

Outgoing Lebanese Prime Minister Hassan Diab was questioned by judicial investigator in connection with the explosion, reported Xinhua. Diab is the highest-ranking official to have been questioned in this matter so far.

He has been criticised for not ensuring that 2750 tonnes of highly explosive Ammonium Nitrate was not safely stored and instead was kept in warehouses at Beirut port close to residential areas of the city.

On Thursday, newly appointed director of Beirut port said that around 4 tonnes of Ammonium Nitrate was still stored near the entrance of the port. He urged the authorities to re-export the explosive material to avoid another disaster.

Rescue and salvage efforts are ongoing a month after the deadly explosion in Beirut that claimed around 200 lives. Rescuers detected a 'heartbeat' under the rubble which set off speculation that a person may be b uried and still alive under the debris.

Rescue and salvage efforts are ongoing a month after the deadly explosion in Beirut that claimed around 200 lives. Rescuers detected a 'heartbeat' under the rubble which set off speculation that a person may be b uried and still alive under the debris. The reports are unconfirmed at this point. However, special sensor equipments were sent to Mar MiKhael area to probe the possibility of a living person trapped under the debris. "These (signs of breathing and pulse) along with the temperature sensor means there is a possibility of life," rescue worker Eddy Bitar told reporters at the scene. he was quoted by Reuters. The search was initially suspended overnight but voluteers continued working. Also Read: Half of Lebanon's population could face food crisis after Beirut port blast: UN News of the rescue prompted crowds to form at the rescue site, who grew angry as rescue efforts were paused in a city desperate for hope. What's latest on Beirut explosion? Outgoing Lebanese Prime Minister Hassan Diab was questioned by judicial investigator in connection with the explosion, reported Xinhua. Diab is the highest-ranking official to have been questioned in this matter so far. He has been criticised for not ensuring that 2750 tonnes of highly explosive Ammonium Nitrate was not safely stored and instead was kept in warehouses at Beirut port close to residential areas of the city. On Thursday, newly appointed director of Beirut port said that around 4 tonnes of Ammonium Nitrate was still stored near the entrance of the port. He urged the authorities to re-export the explosive material to avoid another disaster.

Beirut Explosion: Rescuers hear 'heartbeat' under rubble one month after disaster

French President Emmanuel Macron said Lebanon's embattled leaders had pledged Tuesday to form a crisis cabinet within two weeks to push forward with key reforms, as he visited the disaster-hit country. Macron is in Beirut for a second time since an August 4 explosion there which killed more than 180 people, laid waste to entire city districts and fuelled popular rage against the country's political elite.

French President Emmanuel Macron: Ready to host second aid conference for Lebanon

French President Emmanuel Macron said Lebanon's embattled leaders had pledged Tuesday to form a crisis cabinet within two weeks to push forward with key reforms, as he visited the disaster-hit country.&nbsp;

Macron is&nbsp;in Beirut for a second time since an August 4 explosion there which killed more than 180 people, laid waste to entire city districts and fuelled popular rage against the country's political elite.

He attended muted celebrations marking the centenary of Greater Lebanon, shortly after political leaders settled on a new prime minister, Mustapha Adib, to form a cabinet and lead the country out of political turmoil and an economic crisis that was already crippling the country before the portside blast.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-warns-lebanese-leaders-of-sanctions-if-reforms-are-not-swift-324479" hreflang="en">Macron warns Lebanese leaders of sanctions if reforms are not swift</a>

"What all political parties without exception have committed to this evening right here, is that the formation of this government will not take more than 15 days," he said.

Macron had set himself an ambitious goal for his return visit:&nbsp;to push for deep change, but without being seen as meddling in the former French mandate.

"This is the last chance for the Lebanese system," he warned earlier.

Also see|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/timeline-from-devastating-beirut-blast-to-new-lebanese-government-324543" hreflang="en">Timeline: From devastating Beirut blast to new Lebanese government</a>

Macron spoke to the press after meeting top Lebanese politicians, while clashes erupted in central Beirut between security forces and protesters rejecting the new prime minister.

One held a poster aloft urging Macron: "Do not cooperate with the corrupt and criminal."

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New conferences&nbsp;

The French leader arrived Monday, just hours after Adib, a little-known 48-year-old academic and former ambassador to Germany, was designated to form a&nbsp;government.&nbsp;

Macron said it was not his place to "approve" the designation of Adib, whom he met late Monday and again on Tuesday.

The premier designate "has to be given all the tools to succeed... so he can implement reforms" long demanded by the international community, Macron said.

The Beirut explosion compounded Lebanon's worst economic crisis since the war, which has reached the point where the UN has warned that more than half of the population risk food shortages by the end of the year.

On August 9, international donors pledged over&nbsp;$300 million&nbsp;in emergency aid, during a video conference jointly organised by France and the United Nations.

Macron said he was ready to host a second Lebanon aid conference in the second half of October.

He added he had also invited the president, the prime minister and parliament speaker to a second political conference at the same time.

Macron had kicked off his trip not by visiting political leaders, but by spending more than an hour Monday with singing legend Fairuz, who at 85 is a rare unifying figure in Lebanon.

On Tuesday, Macron attended a series of events to mark 100 years since French mandate authorities proclaimed the creation of Greater Lebanon.

In the Jaj forest northeast of Beirut, he planted a cedar tree,&nbsp;Lebanon's national symbol, to express "confidence in the future of the country," his office said.

Macron also returned for a second visit to Beirut port, ground zero of the colossal blast.

French air force jets flew overhead, leaving trails of red, white and green smoke, the colours of the Lebanese flag.

Some on social media criticised the aerial manoeuvre, saying it could trigger traumatic memories among people who experienced the port blast and the 1975-1990 civil war.

Hezbollah has 'popular base'

Activists have blamed the country's entrenched political class for the August 4 explosion of hundreds of tonnes of ammonium nitrate after languishing unsafe in the port for years.

They have rejected the choice of Adib as premier, over being too close to established political circles.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, hundreds of protesters called for the proclamation of a secular state, to replace the multi-confessional country's sectarian power sharing system.

Clashes erupted in the evening, sparking condemnation from activists who denounced the police for beating protesters and alleged that French tear gas had been used.

Representatives of the powerful Shiite Muslim Hezbollah movement, designated by the US as a terrorist group, were among those who met Macron Tuesday.&nbsp;

Macron said Hezbollah, which is part of a bloc that has a majority in parliament, "is probably in parliament because of intimidation but also because other forces have failed to run the country well," but it also had a "popular base".

The issue of the disarmement of the group's military would eventually need to be broached, he said, though not immediately.

"This is exactly the discussion we had an hour ago... It should not be a taboo," he said.

French President Emmanuel Macron said Lebanon's embattled leaders had pledged Tuesday to form a crisis cabinet within two weeks to push forward with key reforms, as he visited the disaster-hit country.

French President Emmanuel Macron said Lebanon's embattled leaders had pledged Tuesday to form a crisis cabinet within two weeks to push forward with key reforms, as he visited the disaster-hit country. Macron is in Beirut for a second time since an August 4 explosion there which killed more than 180 people, laid waste to entire city districts and fuelled popular rage against the country's political elite. He attended muted celebrations marking the centenary of Greater Lebanon, shortly after political leaders settled on a new prime minister, Mustapha Adib, to form a cabinet and lead the country out of political turmoil and an economic crisis that was already crippling the country before the portside blast. Also read| Macron warns Lebanese leaders of sanctions if reforms are not swift "What all political parties without exception have committed to this evening right here, is that the formation of this government will not take more than 15 days," he said. Macron had set himself an ambitious goal for his return visit: to push for deep change, but without being seen as meddling in the former French mandate. "This is the last chance for the Lebanese system," he warned earlier. Also see| Timeline: From devastating Beirut blast to new Lebanese government Macron spoke to the press after meeting top Lebanese politicians, while clashes erupted in central Beirut between security forces and protesters rejecting the new prime minister. One held a poster aloft urging Macron: "Do not cooperate with the corrupt and criminal." New conferences The French leader arrived Monday, just hours after Adib, a little-known 48-year-old academic and former ambassador to Germany, was designated to form a government. Macron said it was not his place to "approve" the designation of Adib, whom he met late Monday and again on Tuesday. The premier designate "has to be given all the tools to succeed... so he can implement reforms" long demanded by the international community, Macron said. The Beirut explosion compounded Lebanon's worst economic crisis since the war, which has reached the point where the UN has warned that more than half of the population risk food shortages by the end of the year. On August 9, international donors pledged over $300 million in emergency aid, during a video conference jointly organised by France and the United Nations. Macron said he was ready to host a second Lebanon aid conference in the second half of October. He added he had also invited the president, the prime minister and parliament speaker to a second political conference at the same time. Macron had kicked off his trip not by visiting political leaders, but by spending more than an hour Monday with singing legend Fairuz, who at 85 is a rare unifying figure in Lebanon. On Tuesday, Macron attended a series of events to mark 100 years since French mandate authorities proclaimed the creation of Greater Lebanon. In the Jaj forest northeast of Beirut, he planted a cedar tree, Lebanon's national symbol, to express "confidence in the future of the country," his office said. Macron also returned for a second visit to Beirut port, ground zero of the colossal blast. French air force jets flew overhead, leaving trails of red, white and green smoke, the colours of the Lebanese flag. Some on social media criticised the aerial manoeuvre, saying it could trigger traumatic memories among people who experienced the port blast and the 1975-1990 civil war. Hezbollah has 'popular base' Activists have blamed the country's entrenched political class for the August 4 explosion of hundreds of tonnes of ammonium nitrate after languishing unsafe in the port for years. They have rejected the choice of Adib as premier, over being too close to established political circles. On Tuesday, hundreds of protesters called for the proclamation of a secular state, to replace the multi-confessional country's sectarian power sharing system. Clashes erupted in the evening, sparking condemnation from activists who denounced the police for beating protesters and alleged that French tear gas had been used. Representatives of the powerful Shiite Muslim Hezbollah movement, designated by the US as a terrorist group, were among those who met Macron Tuesday. Macron said Hezbollah, which is part of a bloc that has a majority in parliament, "is probably in parliament because of intimidation but also because other forces have failed to run the country well," but it also had a "popular base". The issue of the disarmement of the group's military would eventually need to be broached, he said, though not immediately. "This is exactly the discussion we had an hour ago... It should not be a taboo," he said.

Lebanon leaders have promised cabinet within two weeks, says Macron

The deadly Beirut port blast on August 4 this year set the tone for a subdued 100 year anniversary for the state of Lebanon. In this segment of WION, take a look back at 100 years of Lebanon.

A look back at 100 years of Lebanon | WION Ground Report

French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Lebanon on early hours of Tuesday as Lebanese political parties reached consensus on the next Prime Minister of Lebanon. France spent its political capital in Lebanon that is reeling from a financial crisis even as swathes of Beirut lay in waste due to a devastating blast that took place in August.

Macron is visiting Beirut for the second time in less than a month to press for a new government made up of experts untainted by corruption and capable of rooting out graft, waste and negligence as well as rebuilding after the August 4 explosion that wrecked large areas of Beirut, killing 190 people.

 
Macron tweets in Arabic:

Emmanuel Macron addressed the Lebanese people in an Arabic-language tweet, saying he had returned as promised to "work together to create necessary conditions for reconstruction and stability".

Macron began his trip to Beirut on Monday by visiting Fairouz, one of the Arab world`s most famous singers whose haunting voice has been Lebanon`s soundtrack from its glamorous heyday through its conflicts and latest trauma.

Anger at Lebanon`s political elite over an economic meltdown and this month`s devastating port blast was evident as Macron arrived at the home of the 85-year old artist, feted as a national treasure and symbol of peace, transcending factional and sectarian divides in Lebanon and beyond.

Also Read: <a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/lebanon-names-mustapha-adib-its-germany-envoy-as-new-prime-minister-324276">Lebanon names Mustapha Adib, its Germany envoy, as new prime minister</a> 
 
Macron`s visit coincides with Lebanon`s centenary, at a time of profound doubts that it has a future as a viable state under the sway of former warlords and sectarian leaders loyal to different regional masters, Iran and Saudi Arabia.

Macron made a series of phone calls to Lebanese leaders at the weekend that were vital to securing consensus on Adib.

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&nbsp;

"It was the pressure of his calls to everyone, the pressure of his coming to Lebanon, the pressure of everyone not wanting to upset him," a senior Lebanese politician said.

 
New Lebanese PM:

Lebanese political parties on Monday reached a consensus and the name of Mustapha Adib has been finalised as the country's next prime minister. Adib, who has Doctorate in Law and Political Science, later visited parts of Beirut that were devasted by the blast.

The explosion, in which volatile chemicals stored unsafely for years detonated, led to the resignation of the previous government, now acting as caretaker.

Mustapha Adib's name was suggested by previous prime ministers including Saad al-Hariri, &nbsp;who heads the biggest Sunni Muslim party. Mustapha Adib has also won the support of the Hezbollah.

"The opportunity for our country is small and the mission I have accepted is based on all the political forces acknowledging that," said Adib 
&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Lebanon on early hours of Tuesday as Lebanese political parties reached consensus on the next Prime Minister of Lebanon.

French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Lebanon on early hours of Tuesday as Lebanese political parties reached consensus on the next Prime Minister of Lebanon. France spent its political capital in Lebanon that is reeling from a financial crisis even as swathes of Beirut lay in waste due to a devastating blast that took place in August. Macron is visiting Beirut for the second time in less than a month to press for a new government made up of experts untainted by corruption and capable of rooting out graft, waste and negligence as well as rebuilding after the August 4 explosion that wrecked large areas of Beirut, killing 190 people. Macron tweets in Arabic: Emmanuel Macron addressed the Lebanese people in an Arabic-language tweet, saying he had returned as promised to "work together to create necessary conditions for reconstruction and stability". Macron began his trip to Beirut on Monday by visiting Fairouz, one of the Arab world`s most famous singers whose haunting voice has been Lebanon`s soundtrack from its glamorous heyday through its conflicts and latest trauma. Anger at Lebanon`s political elite over an economic meltdown and this month`s devastating port blast was evident as Macron arrived at the home of the 85-year old artist, feted as a national treasure and symbol of peace, transcending factional and sectarian divides in Lebanon and beyond. Also Read: Lebanon names Mustapha Adib, its Germany envoy, as new prime minister Macron`s visit coincides with Lebanon`s centenary, at a time of profound doubts that it has a future as a viable state under the sway of former warlords and sectarian leaders loyal to different regional masters, Iran and Saudi Arabia. Macron made a series of phone calls to Lebanese leaders at the weekend that were vital to securing consensus on Adib. × "It was the pressure of his calls to everyone, the pressure of his coming to Lebanon, the pressure of everyone not wanting to upset him," a senior Lebanese politician said. New Lebanese PM: Lebanese political parties on Monday reached a consensus and the name of Mustapha Adib has been finalised as the country's next prime minister. Adib, who has Doctorate in Law and Political Science, later visited parts of Beirut that were devasted by the blast. The explosion, in which volatile chemicals stored unsafely for years detonated, led to the resignation of the previous government, now acting as caretaker. Mustapha Adib's name was suggested by previous prime ministers including Saad al-Hariri, who heads the biggest Sunni Muslim party. Mustapha Adib has also won the support of the Hezbollah. "The opportunity for our country is small and the mission I have accepted is based on all the political forces acknowledging that," said Adib

French President Macron arrives in Lebanon as Mustapha Adib named next PM

Timeline: From devastating Beirut blast to new Lebanese government

French President Emmanuel Macron has warned Lebanese politicians they risk sanctions if they fail to set the nation on a new course within three months, stepping up pressure for reforms in a country collapsing under the weight of an economic crisis.

Visiting Lebanon for the second time in less than a month, Macron marked the country's centenary by planting a cedar tree, the emblem of a nation that is facing its biggest threat to stability since the 1975-1990 civil war.

"It's the last chance for this system," Macron told POLITICO in an interview while travelling to Beirut on Monday. "It's a risky bet I'm making, I am aware of it ... I am putting the only thing I have on the table: my political capital."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/french-president-macron-warns-of-new-civil-war-in-lebanon-323839" hreflang="en">French President Macron warns of new civil war in Lebanon</a>

Macron said he was seeking "credible commitments" and a "demanding follow-up mechanism" from Lebanon's leaders, including a legislative election in six to 12 months.&nbsp;

Lebanese politicians, some former warlords who have overseen decades of industrial-scale state corruption, face a daunting task with an economy in crisis, a swathe of Beirut in tatters after the Aug. 4 port blast and sectarian tensions rising.

In the hours before his arrival on Monday, a new prime minister was designated, Mustapha Adib, following a consensus among major parties that senior Lebanese politicians said was forged under pressure from Macron over the weekend.&nbsp;

Macron, who also visited last month in the immediate aftermath of the blast that killed more than 190 people and injured 6,000, planted the cedar sapling at a forest reserve in the mountains northeast of Beirut.

The French president's Elysée palace said Macron had planted the tree to show his "confidence in the future of the country".

The French air force display team flew overhead, leaving smoke trails of red, white and green, the national colours of Lebanon whose borders were proclaimed by France 100 years ago in an imperial carve-up with Britain. It gained independence in 1943.

TRANSCENDING DIVISIONS

Macron, who has been at the centre of international efforts to press Lebanese leaders to tackle corruption and take other steps to fix their country, began his trip late on Monday by meeting Fairouz, 85, one of the Arab world's most famous singers whose music transcends Lebanon's deep divisions.

He was greeted by dozens of protesters gathered outside her home with placards reading "No cabinet by, or with, the murderers" and "Don't be on the wrong side of history!"

He told reporters on Monday he wanted to "ensure that the government that is formed will implement the necessary reforms."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/french-president-macron-arrives-in-lebanon-as-mustapha-adib-named-next-pm-324391" hreflang="en">French President Macron arrives in Lebanon as Mustapha Adib named next PM</a>

Macron's agenda includes a tour of the devastated Beirut port, a meeting with President Michel Aoun for a centenary reception and meetings with Lebanon's various factions.

After being designated as premier on Monday, Adib called for the rapid formation of a government, immediate implementation of reforms and an agreement with the International Monetary Fund.

Lebanon's economic crisis is rooted in decades of state corruption and waste that landed the state with one of the world's heaviest public debt burdens.

Since October, the currency has collapsed and depositors have been frozen out of their savings while the real value of those deposits has collapsed in a paralysed banking system. Poverty and unemployment has soared in a nation that already hosts the world's largest number of refugees per capita.

France's foreign minister said last week that Lebanon risked disappearing because of the inaction of its political elite who needed to quickly form a new government to implement reforms.

French President Emmanuel Macron has warned Lebanese politicians they risk sanctions if they fail to set the nation on a new course within three months, stepping up pressure for reforms in a country collapsing under the weight of an economic crisis.

French President Emmanuel Macron has warned Lebanese politicians they risk sanctions if they fail to set the nation on a new course within three months, stepping up pressure for reforms in a country collapsing under the weight of an economic crisis. Visiting Lebanon for the second time in less than a month, Macron marked the country's centenary by planting a cedar tree, the emblem of a nation that is facing its biggest threat to stability since the 1975-1990 civil war. "It's the last chance for this system," Macron told POLITICO in an interview while travelling to Beirut on Monday. "It's a risky bet I'm making, I am aware of it ... I am putting the only thing I have on the table: my political capital." Also read: French President Macron warns of new civil war in Lebanon Macron said he was seeking "credible commitments" and a "demanding follow-up mechanism" from Lebanon's leaders, including a legislative election in six to 12 months. Lebanese politicians, some former warlords who have overseen decades of industrial-scale state corruption, face a daunting task with an economy in crisis, a swathe of Beirut in tatters after the Aug. 4 port blast and sectarian tensions rising. In the hours before his arrival on Monday, a new prime minister was designated, Mustapha Adib, following a consensus among major parties that senior Lebanese politicians said was forged under pressure from Macron over the weekend. Macron, who also visited last month in the immediate aftermath of the blast that killed more than 190 people and injured 6,000, planted the cedar sapling at a forest reserve in the mountains northeast of Beirut. The French president's Elysée palace said Macron had planted the tree to show his "confidence in the future of the country". The French air force display team flew overhead, leaving smoke trails of red, white and green, the national colours of Lebanon whose borders were proclaimed by France 100 years ago in an imperial carve-up with Britain. It gained independence in 1943. TRANSCENDING DIVISIONS Macron, who has been at the centre of international efforts to press Lebanese leaders to tackle corruption and take other steps to fix their country, began his trip late on Monday by meeting Fairouz, 85, one of the Arab world's most famous singers whose music transcends Lebanon's deep divisions. He was greeted by dozens of protesters gathered outside her home with placards reading "No cabinet by, or with, the murderers" and "Don't be on the wrong side of history!" He told reporters on Monday he wanted to "ensure that the government that is formed will implement the necessary reforms." Also read: French President Macron arrives in Lebanon as Mustapha Adib named next PM Macron's agenda includes a tour of the devastated Beirut port, a meeting with President Michel Aoun for a centenary reception and meetings with Lebanon's various factions. After being designated as premier on Monday, Adib called for the rapid formation of a government, immediate implementation of reforms and an agreement with the International Monetary Fund. Lebanon's economic crisis is rooted in decades of state corruption and waste that landed the state with one of the world's heaviest public debt burdens. Since October, the currency has collapsed and depositors have been frozen out of their savings while the real value of those deposits has collapsed in a paralysed banking system. Poverty and unemployment has soared in a nation that already hosts the world's largest number of refugees per capita. France's foreign minister said last week that Lebanon risked disappearing because of the inaction of its political elite who needed to quickly form a new government to implement reforms.

Macron warns Lebanese leaders of sanctions if reforms are not swift

Lebanon's leaders have designated the Mustapha Adib, as the new Prime Minister,&nbsp;to steer the country through a deep crisis after the Beirut explosion compounded a sharp economic downturn.

The presidency made the announcement in a televised statement as Adib arrived at the palace in Baabda near Beirut to meet President Michel Aoun and parliament speaker Nabih Berri.

Adib will now have to form a government that can push through long-overdue economic, financial and governance reforms in order to unlock international support for the crisis-hit nation, which was already collapsing before the explosion.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Lebanon's leaders have designated the Mustapha Adib, as the new Prime Minister, to steer the country through a deep crisis after the Beirut explosion compounded a sharp economic downturn.

Lebanon's leaders have designated the Mustapha Adib, as the new Prime Minister, to steer the country through a deep crisis after the Beirut explosion compounded a sharp economic downturn. The presidency made the announcement in a televised statement as Adib arrived at the palace in Baabda near Beirut to meet President Michel Aoun and parliament speaker Nabih Berri. Adib will now have to form a government that can push through long-overdue economic, financial and governance reforms in order to unlock international support for the crisis-hit nation, which was already collapsing before the explosion. (With inputs from agencies)

Lebanon names Mustapha Adib, its Germany envoy, as new prime minister

Lebanon`s ambassador to Germany Mustapha Adib is poised to be designated prime minister on Monday after winning the support of major parties to form a new government facing a crippling financial crisis and the aftermath of the Beirut port explosion.

The nomination followed contacts by French President Emmanuel Macron over the last 48 hours to press Lebanese leaders to agree on a candidate, two senior Lebanese officials said, just ahead of a visit by the French leader to Lebanon this week.

Macron has taken centre stage in international efforts to get Lebanon`s fractious leaders to start addressing a financial crisis that had devastated the economy even before the Aug. 4 port blast that killed some 190 people.

A French presidency source said Macron had been in contact by phone with the main protagonists on Saturday and Sunday. "The president is informed of the negotiations underway in Beirut," the source said. Macron arrives in Beirut late on Monday.

Last week, contacts among Lebanese leaders to agree a new prime minister were deadlocked. One of the two senior Lebanese sources said Macron`s role had been essential in clinching the agreement on Adib.

The previous government led by Hassan Diab quit on Aug. 10 over the port blast in which a massive amount of unsafely stored chemicals detonated.

Adib has a doctorate in law and political science and previously served as an adviser to Najib Mikati, a former prime minister. He has served as ambassador to Germany since 2013.

The post of prime minister must go to a Sunni Muslim in Lebanon`s sectarian system. Adib`s candidacy won vital political backing on Sunday from former prime ministers including Saad al-Hariri, who heads the biggest Sunni party, the Future Movement.

President Michel Aoun, a Maronite Christian, is due to meet parliamentary blocs on Monday in the official consultations to designate the new premier. He is required to nominate the candidate with biggest level of support among MPs.

Lebanon`s dominant Shi`ite parties, Hezbollah and the Amal Movement led by Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, will both name Adib at the consultations, a senior Shi`ite source said.

The Christian Free Patriotic Movement (FPM), a political ally of Hezbollah which was founded by Aoun and is led today by his son-in-law Gebran Bassil, will do the same, Bassil told Reuters.

Once designated, the process of forming a new government will get underway. Until a new administration is agreed, the Diab government continues in a caretaker capacity.

Lebanon`s financial crisis has sunk the currency by as much as 80% since October, locked savers out their deposits in a paralysed banking system and fuelled poverty and unemployment.

Lebanon launched talks with the International Monetary Fund in May, after defaulting on its huge debt, aiming to secure financial support but these have stalled amid divisions on the Lebanese side over the scale of losses in the financial system.

Lebanon`s ambassador to Germany Mustapha Adib is poised to be designated prime minister on Monday after winning the support of major parties to form a new government facing a crippling financial crisis and the aftermath of the Beirut port explosion.

Lebanon`s ambassador to Germany Mustapha Adib is poised to be designated prime minister on Monday after winning the support of major parties to form a new government facing a crippling financial crisis and the aftermath of the Beirut port explosion. The nomination followed contacts by French President Emmanuel Macron over the last 48 hours to press Lebanese leaders to agree on a candidate, two senior Lebanese officials said, just ahead of a visit by the French leader to Lebanon this week. Macron has taken centre stage in international efforts to get Lebanon`s fractious leaders to start addressing a financial crisis that had devastated the economy even before the Aug. 4 port blast that killed some 190 people. A French presidency source said Macron had been in contact by phone with the main protagonists on Saturday and Sunday. "The president is informed of the negotiations underway in Beirut," the source said. Macron arrives in Beirut late on Monday. Last week, contacts among Lebanese leaders to agree a new prime minister were deadlocked. One of the two senior Lebanese sources said Macron`s role had been essential in clinching the agreement on Adib. The previous government led by Hassan Diab quit on Aug. 10 over the port blast in which a massive amount of unsafely stored chemicals detonated. Adib has a doctorate in law and political science and previously served as an adviser to Najib Mikati, a former prime minister. He has served as ambassador to Germany since 2013. The post of prime minister must go to a Sunni Muslim in Lebanon`s sectarian system. Adib`s candidacy won vital political backing on Sunday from former prime ministers including Saad al-Hariri, who heads the biggest Sunni party, the Future Movement. President Michel Aoun, a Maronite Christian, is due to meet parliamentary blocs on Monday in the official consultations to designate the new premier. He is required to nominate the candidate with biggest level of support among MPs. Lebanon`s dominant Shi`ite parties, Hezbollah and the Amal Movement led by Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, will both name Adib at the consultations, a senior Shi`ite source said. The Christian Free Patriotic Movement (FPM), a political ally of Hezbollah which was founded by Aoun and is led today by his son-in-law Gebran Bassil, will do the same, Bassil told Reuters. Once designated, the process of forming a new government will get underway. Until a new administration is agreed, the Diab government continues in a caretaker capacity. Lebanon`s financial crisis has sunk the currency by as much as 80% since October, locked savers out their deposits in a paralysed banking system and fuelled poverty and unemployment. Lebanon launched talks with the International Monetary Fund in May, after defaulting on its huge debt, aiming to secure financial support but these have stalled amid divisions on the Lebanese side over the scale of losses in the financial system.

Lebanese ambassador Adib poised to be designated PM

Hezbollah chief Hasan Nasrallah on Sunday said that his Shiite movement is "open" to a French proposal for a new political pact for Lebanon as long as there is national consensus. &nbsp;

"On his latest visit to Lebanon, we heard a call from the French president for a new political pact in Lebanon... today we are open to a constructive discussion in this regard," Nasrallah said in a speech.&nbsp;

"But we have one condition: this discussion should be carried out... with the will and consent of the various Lebanese factions."

Nasrallah did not elaborate on what kind of changes his movement was willing to consider but cited criticsm from "official French sources" over Lebanon's "sect-based political system and its inability to solve Lebanon's problems and respond to its needs."&nbsp;

Lebanon recognises 18 official religious sects and its 128 parliamentary seats are divided equally between Muslims and Christians, an arrangement unique in the region.&nbsp;

However, governments born out of this system have been prone to deadlock and have failed to meet popular demands for better living conditions.&nbsp;

Macron, the first world leader to visit Lebanon after the devastating August 4 Beirut port blast, will return on Monday to press for reform and reconstruction.&nbsp;

On his earlier visit days after the blast, the French president said Lebanese leaders had a "huge" responsibility: "that of a revamped pact with the Lebanese people in the coming weeks, that of deep change."&nbsp;

The explosion of a huge stockpile of ammonium nitrate fertiliser, left to languish for years in a warehouse, prompted the government to step down on August 10 and reignited a months-old protest movement demanding a political overhaul. &nbsp;

Consultations to name a new premier are set to begin on Monday in tandem with Macron's visit.&nbsp;

Nasrallah said his movement would be "cooperative" in the formation of a government capable of spearheading reform and reconstruction. &nbsp;

Many Lebanese have blamed the August 4 port blast on a ruling class seen as mired in nepotism and graft since the 1975-1990 civil war.&nbsp;

The explosion killed more than 180 people and laid entire districts to waste, reviving a protest movement that had emerged in October to demand the wholesale removal of the political elite.

On Friday, Macron spoke of the "constraints of a confessional system" in a country populated by Christians, Sunni Muslims and Shiites.&nbsp;

He said this, combined with "what can be mildly described as vested interests" &nbsp;had prevented political renewal and made reforms almost impossible.

Hezbollah chief Hasan Nasrallah on Sunday said that his Shiite movement is "open" to a French proposal for a new political pact for Lebanon as long as there is national consensus.

Hezbollah chief Hasan Nasrallah on Sunday said that his Shiite movement is "open" to a French proposal for a new political pact for Lebanon as long as there is national consensus. "On his latest visit to Lebanon, we heard a call from the French president for a new political pact in Lebanon... today we are open to a constructive discussion in this regard," Nasrallah said in a speech. "But we have one condition: this discussion should be carried out... with the will and consent of the various Lebanese factions." Nasrallah did not elaborate on what kind of changes his movement was willing to consider but cited criticsm from "official French sources" over Lebanon's "sect-based political system and its inability to solve Lebanon's problems and respond to its needs." Lebanon recognises 18 official religious sects and its 128 parliamentary seats are divided equally between Muslims and Christians, an arrangement unique in the region. However, governments born out of this system have been prone to deadlock and have failed to meet popular demands for better living conditions. Macron, the first world leader to visit Lebanon after the devastating August 4 Beirut port blast, will return on Monday to press for reform and reconstruction. On his earlier visit days after the blast, the French president said Lebanese leaders had a "huge" responsibility: "that of a revamped pact with the Lebanese people in the coming weeks, that of deep change." The explosion of a huge stockpile of ammonium nitrate fertiliser, left to languish for years in a warehouse, prompted the government to step down on August 10 and reignited a months-old protest movement demanding a political overhaul. Consultations to name a new premier are set to begin on Monday in tandem with Macron's visit. Nasrallah said his movement would be "cooperative" in the formation of a government capable of spearheading reform and reconstruction. Many Lebanese have blamed the August 4 port blast on a ruling class seen as mired in nepotism and graft since the 1975-1990 civil war. The explosion killed more than 180 people and laid entire districts to waste, reviving a protest movement that had emerged in October to demand the wholesale removal of the political elite. On Friday, Macron spoke of the "constraints of a confessional system" in a country populated by Christians, Sunni Muslims and Shiites. He said this, combined with "what can be mildly described as vested interests" had prevented political renewal and made reforms almost impossible.

Hezbollah ‘open’ to French proposal for new political order in Lebanon

French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday warned that Lebanon risks a return to civil war if it is left alone to deal with the crisis that followed the deadly Beirut port explosion this month.

Macron was speaking as he prepared to head to Lebanon on Monday in a new bid to press its leaders to undertake radical reform in the wake of the explosion this month that left 181 dead.

“If we let Lebanon go in the region and if we somehow leave it in the hands of the depravity of regional powers, it will be civil war” as well as “the defeat of what is the very identity of Lebanon,” he said.

Paris is impatient over the lack of progress in forming a new government to undertake reform in the aftermath of the blast, which was blamed on a store of ammonium nitrate left for years in a warehouse.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-at-risk-of-disappearing-french-foreign-minister-warns-323433">Lebanon at 'risk of disappearing', French Foreign Minister warns</a> 
 
Many Lebanese have blamed the disaster on a ruling class they charge as being mired in nepotism, corruption and neglect since the 1975-1990 civil war.

Macron spoke of the “constraints of a confessional system” in a country populated by Christians, Sunni Muslims and Shiites.

But he said that added to this was “what can be mildly described as vested interests” and this had led to “a situation where there is hardly any [political] renewal and where there is there is almost an impossibility of carrying out reforms.”

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&nbsp;

He insisted that France would follow a policy of being “demanding without interfering” and awaited reforms like passing an anti-corruption law and reforming public contracts, the energy sector and the banking system.

“If we do not do this, the Lebanese economy will collapse” and “the only victim will be the Lebanese people… who cannot go into exile,” he warned.

He extolled Lebanon’s multi-confessional make-up saying it “is perhaps one of the last existing forms” in the Middle East of the “peaceful possible coexistence of religions” and a pluralist system based on “education and culture.” 
&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday warned that Lebanon risks a return to civil war if it is left alone to deal with the crisis that followed the deadly Beirut port explosion this month.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday warned that Lebanon risks a return to civil war if it is left alone to deal with the crisis that followed the deadly Beirut port explosion this month. Macron was speaking as he prepared to head to Lebanon on Monday in a new bid to press its leaders to undertake radical reform in the wake of the explosion this month that left 181 dead. “If we let Lebanon go in the region and if we somehow leave it in the hands of the depravity of regional powers, it will be civil war” as well as “the defeat of what is the very identity of Lebanon,” he said. Paris is impatient over the lack of progress in forming a new government to undertake reform in the aftermath of the blast, which was blamed on a store of ammonium nitrate left for years in a warehouse. Also Read | Lebanon at 'risk of disappearing', French Foreign Minister warns Many Lebanese have blamed the disaster on a ruling class they charge as being mired in nepotism, corruption and neglect since the 1975-1990 civil war. Macron spoke of the “constraints of a confessional system” in a country populated by Christians, Sunni Muslims and Shiites. But he said that added to this was “what can be mildly described as vested interests” and this had led to “a situation where there is hardly any [political] renewal and where there is there is almost an impossibility of carrying out reforms.” × He insisted that France would follow a policy of being “demanding without interfering” and awaited reforms like passing an anti-corruption law and reforming public contracts, the energy sector and the banking system. “If we do not do this, the Lebanese economy will collapse” and “the only victim will be the Lebanese people… who cannot go into exile,” he warned. He extolled Lebanon’s multi-confessional make-up saying it “is perhaps one of the last existing forms” in the Middle East of the “peaceful possible coexistence of religions” and a pluralist system based on “education and culture.”

French President Macron warns of new civil war in Lebanon

French President Emmanuel Macron has warned that Lebanon is on the risk of civil war if not helped in the crisis. Macron has asked global community to help Lebanon. French Prez has pushed to establish a news government in the country.

Emmanuel Macron says Lebanon on the risk of Civil War if not helped in crisis

The Lebanese presidency will convene consultations with parliamentary blocs on Monday to designate a new prime minister, after the government quit earlier this month following the catastrophic explosion at Beirut port.

The post of prime minister must go to a Sunni Muslim in the Lebanese sectarian system. President Michel Aoun is required to designate the candidate with the greatest level of support among MPs.

Saad al-Hariri is so far the only serious name floated for the post to replace Hassan Diab, who continues in a caretaker capacity until a new government is agreed. But Hariri said earlier this week he was not a candidate after several major parties said they did not support his return to the job.

The consultations will take place a day before French President Emmanuel Macron visits Beirut as Paris presses Lebanese leaders to take action to save the country from a destabilising financial crisis.

The Iran-backed Shi'ite Hezbollah and its Shi'ite ally the Amal Movement want Hariri to be prime minister again. But Hezbollah's main Christian ally, the Free Patriotic Movement founded by Aoun, the Christian Lebanese Forces Party and Druze leader Walid Jumblatt, do not support Hariri's return to the job. 
&nbsp;

The Lebanese presidency will convene consultations with parliamentary blocs on Monday to designate a new prime minister, after the government quit earlier this month following the catastrophic explosion at Beirut port.

The Lebanese presidency will convene consultations with parliamentary blocs on Monday to designate a new prime minister, after the government quit earlier this month following the catastrophic explosion at Beirut port. The post of prime minister must go to a Sunni Muslim in the Lebanese sectarian system. President Michel Aoun is required to designate the candidate with the greatest level of support among MPs. Saad al-Hariri is so far the only serious name floated for the post to replace Hassan Diab, who continues in a caretaker capacity until a new government is agreed. But Hariri said earlier this week he was not a candidate after several major parties said they did not support his return to the job. The consultations will take place a day before French President Emmanuel Macron visits Beirut as Paris presses Lebanese leaders to take action to save the country from a destabilising financial crisis. The Iran-backed Shi'ite Hezbollah and its Shi'ite ally the Amal Movement want Hariri to be prime minister again. But Hezbollah's main Christian ally, the Free Patriotic Movement founded by Aoun, the Christian Lebanese Forces Party and Druze leader Walid Jumblatt, do not support Hariri's return to the job.

Lebanese presidency to convene consultations on Aug 31 to designate new PM

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian on Thursday said that Lebanon is at "risk of disappearing". He urged emergency reforms under a new government.

"The risk today is of Lebanon disappearing so these measures have to be taken," he told RTL radio ahead of President Emmanuel Macron's return visit to Beirut next week to push reform and reconstruction after the devastating port blast.

"They are caught up between themselves in a consensus of inactivity," Le Drian said. "That can't go on and we are saying that very clearly."

"The President of the Republic said it when he went to Lebanon on August 6. He will say it again when he'll be in Beirut on Tuesday."

Macron will begin his reconstruction efforts on Monday but will also look at the political scenario in Lebanon after the whole government resigned.&nbsp;

Macron visited Beirut two days after the massive explosion at the port killed 181 people and wounded thousands.

On August 9, he chaired a video conference that saw world leaders pledge more than 250 million euros ($295 million) for Lebanon.

"The country is on the edge of the precipice," Le Drian added, calling for a new government to be set up quickly. "There's a humanitarian and health emergency," he said.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian on Thursday said that Lebanon is at "risk of disappearing". He urged emergency reforms under a new government. "The risk today is of Lebanon disappearing so these measures have to be taken," he told RTL radio ahead of President Emmanuel Macron's return visit to Beirut next week to push reform and reconstruction after the devastating port blast.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian on Thursday said that Lebanon is at "risk of disappearing". He urged emergency reforms under a new government. "The risk today is of Lebanon disappearing so these measures have to be taken," he told RTL radio ahead of President Emmanuel Macron's return visit to Beirut next week to push reform and reconstruction after the devastating port blast. "They are caught up between themselves in a consensus of inactivity," Le Drian said. "That can't go on and we are saying that very clearly." "The President of the Republic said it when he went to Lebanon on August 6. He will say it again when he'll be in Beirut on Tuesday." Macron will begin his reconstruction efforts on Monday but will also look at the political scenario in Lebanon after the whole government resigned. Macron visited Beirut two days after the massive explosion at the port killed 181 people and wounded thousands. On August 9, he chaired a video conference that saw world leaders pledge more than 250 million euros ($295 million) for Lebanon. "The country is on the edge of the precipice," Le Drian added, calling for a new government to be set up quickly. "There's a humanitarian and health emergency," he said.

Lebanon at 'risk of disappearing', French Foreign Minister warns

At least 150 people have become permanently disabled as a result of the devastating August 4 port explosion.

A mental health emergency in Lebanon

The Israeli military struck what it said were posts belonging to Lebanon`s Shi`ite Hezbollah movement early on Wednesday after shots were fired from the other side of the border towards its troops.

After a meeting, Lebanon`s Supreme Defence Council denounced the incident which it called "an Israeli assault" and said a complaint would be filed to the United Nations. The Lebanese army said on its Twitter account that Israeli helicopters had fired missiles at centres of a local environmental group.

Tension has been running high on the border. Last month, Israel said Iran-backed Hezbollah had carried out an infiltration attempt, which the group denied.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-vows-forceful-response-if-more-attacks-from-lebanon-323172">Also read:&nbsp;Netanyahu vows 'forceful' response if more attacks from Lebanon</a>

The Israeli military said no troops were wounded in the firing on Wednesday. Soldiers deployed illumination flares, smoke shells and live fire after the shots from the Lebanese side of the frontier, it said.

"In response, overnight, IDF attack helicopters and aircraft struck observation posts belonging to the Hezbollah terror organization in the border area," the military said in a statement, referring to the Israel Defense Forces.

There was no immediate comment from Hezbollah. The two sides last fought a deadly month-long war in 2006. Witnesses in south Lebanon said Israel had fired scores of flare munitions at border villages.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pompeo-addresses-rnc-for-trump-from-jerusalem-sparks-criticism-323199">Also read:&nbsp;Pompeo addresses RNC for Trump from Jerusalem, sparks criticism</a>

The statement from Lebanon`s defence council, which includes the president and top security officials, made no mention of any shots fired from the south towards Israel.

It said Lebanon`s army commander had briefed the council on "the denounced Israeli assault which took place last night at the southern border."

The Israeli military said it lifted a curfew it had imposed overnight.

"Israel views with great gravity Hezbollah`s firing at our forces," Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a statement on Wednesday morning. "We will respond mightily to any attack on us."

The Israeli military struck what it said were posts belonging to Lebanon`s Shi`ite Hezbollah movement early on Wednesday after shots were fired from the other side of the border towards its troops.

The Israeli military struck what it said were posts belonging to Lebanon`s Shi`ite Hezbollah movement early on Wednesday after shots were fired from the other side of the border towards its troops. After a meeting, Lebanon`s Supreme Defence Council denounced the incident which it called "an Israeli assault" and said a complaint would be filed to the United Nations. The Lebanese army said on its Twitter account that Israeli helicopters had fired missiles at centres of a local environmental group. Tension has been running high on the border. Last month, Israel said Iran-backed Hezbollah had carried out an infiltration attempt, which the group denied. Also read: Netanyahu vows 'forceful' response if more attacks from Lebanon The Israeli military said no troops were wounded in the firing on Wednesday. Soldiers deployed illumination flares, smoke shells and live fire after the shots from the Lebanese side of the frontier, it said. "In response, overnight, IDF attack helicopters and aircraft struck observation posts belonging to the Hezbollah terror organization in the border area," the military said in a statement, referring to the Israel Defense Forces. There was no immediate comment from Hezbollah. The two sides last fought a deadly month-long war in 2006. Witnesses in south Lebanon said Israel had fired scores of flare munitions at border villages. Also read: Pompeo addresses RNC for Trump from Jerusalem, sparks criticism The statement from Lebanon`s defence council, which includes the president and top security officials, made no mention of any shots fired from the south towards Israel. It said Lebanon`s army commander had briefed the council on "the denounced Israeli assault which took place last night at the southern border." The Israeli military said it lifted a curfew it had imposed overnight. "Israel views with great gravity Hezbollah`s firing at our forces," Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a statement on Wednesday morning. "We will respond mightily to any attack on us."

Israel strikes Hezbollah posts in Lebanon after firing at troops, military says

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