Israel accused Iran on Thursday of stepping up efforts to provide the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-warns-hezbollah-lebanon-to-be-careful-246001">Hezbollah militia</a> with precision-guided missile production facilities, a warning to Beirut that Israeli counter-strikes could escalate.

"Dir balak," Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in public remarks directed at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-strikes-hit-pro-syria-palestinian-group-in-lebanon-245680">Lebanon</a>, using the Arabic for "watch out".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-says-air-strike-in-syria-sent-no-immunity-message-to-iran-245618">Israel and Lebanon</a>'s Hezbollah, which last fought a war in 2006, are on high alert after drones were used at the weekend to attack what a security official in the region described as a target linked to precision-guided missile projects.

Hezbollah has blamed Israel for the rare strike in Beirut, and said it will retaliate. The heavily armed Shi'ite movement has denied harbouring such missile facilities. Lebanon has accused Israel of seeking pretexts for aggression.

Without claiming responsibility for the drone attack, the Israeli military published what it said were details about an extensive Iranian-sponsored campaign to provide Hezbollah with the means to produce precision-guided missiles.

Such missiles - which Hezbollah acknowledges possessing - could potentially pose a counter-balance to Israel's overwhelming military force in any future war, with the capacity to home in on and knock out core infrastructure sites.

Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Conricus, an Israeli military spokesman, said that in recent months Iran had increased the pace of the project such that it was "faster in terms of buildings, facilities, locations, conversion and manufacturing facilities, and it means more people, operatives involved in doing so".

"It is time for them (the Lebanese government) to understand their responsibility and understand the fact that what they are letting Hezbollah and Iran do on Lebanese soil is their responsibility," Conricus said.

"They are the ones who are complicit in endangering Lebanon and Lebanese civilians which Hezbollah and Iran are using as human shields."

There was no immediate response from Tehran, Israel's arch-foe, whose nuclear programme and regional activities have been a focus of redoubled US&nbsp;pressure under President Donald Trump - with knock-on tensions in the Gulf.

After Hezbollah said it would respond to the Beirut strike by downing Israeli drones that enter Lebanon's skies, the Lebanese army on Wednesday shot at drones that it said had crossed the border. Israel said there was no damage to them.

In the past Israel has argued that the Lebanese army is too close to Hezbollah to warrant the more than $1.5 billion in US&nbsp;military assistance it has received since the 2006 war. Washington regards the army as a counter-weight to Hezbollah.

Conricus said there was no change to Israel's position on the Lebanese army. But he appeared to play down the threat.

"We continue to classify Hezbollah as our main enemy and the Lebanese Armed Forces as a potential enemy," he said. "If they fire at Israel, tactically speaking, ... then that specific force on the ground will be considered an active enemy, but strategically speaking Hezbollah is the enemy."

Israel accused Iran on Thursday of stepping up efforts to provide the Hezbollah militia with precision-guided missile production facilities, a warning to Beirut that Israeli counter-strikes could escalate.

Israel accused Iran on Thursday of stepping up efforts to provide the Hezbollah militia with precision-guided missile production facilities, a warning to Beirut that Israeli counter-strikes could escalate. "Dir balak," Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in public remarks directed at Lebanon, using the Arabic for "watch out". Israel and Lebanon's Hezbollah, which last fought a war in 2006, are on high alert after drones were used at the weekend to attack what a security official in the region described as a target linked to precision-guided missile projects. Hezbollah has blamed Israel for the rare strike in Beirut, and said it will retaliate. The heavily armed Shi'ite movement has denied harbouring such missile facilities. Lebanon has accused Israel of seeking pretexts for aggression. Without claiming responsibility for the drone attack, the Israeli military published what it said were details about an extensive Iranian-sponsored campaign to provide Hezbollah with the means to produce precision-guided missiles. Such missiles - which Hezbollah acknowledges possessing - could potentially pose a counter-balance to Israel's overwhelming military force in any future war, with the capacity to home in on and knock out core infrastructure sites. Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Conricus, an Israeli military spokesman, said that in recent months Iran had increased the pace of the project such that it was "faster in terms of buildings, facilities, locations, conversion and manufacturing facilities, and it means more people, operatives involved in doing so". "It is time for them (the Lebanese government) to understand their responsibility and understand the fact that what they are letting Hezbollah and Iran do on Lebanese soil is their responsibility," Conricus said. "They are the ones who are complicit in endangering Lebanon and Lebanese civilians which Hezbollah and Iran are using as human shields." There was no immediate response from Tehran, Israel's arch-foe, whose nuclear programme and regional activities have been a focus of redoubled US pressure under President Donald Trump - with knock-on tensions in the Gulf. After Hezbollah said it would respond to the Beirut strike by downing Israeli drones that enter Lebanon's skies, the Lebanese army on Wednesday shot at drones that it said had crossed the border. Israel said there was no damage to them. In the past Israel has argued that the Lebanese army is too close to Hezbollah to warrant the more than $1.5 billion in US military assistance it has received since the 2006 war. Washington regards the army as a counter-weight to Hezbollah. Conricus said there was no change to Israel's position on the Lebanese army. But he appeared to play down the threat. "We continue to classify Hezbollah as our main enemy and the Lebanese Armed Forces as a potential enemy," he said. "If they fire at Israel, tactically speaking, ... then that specific force on the ground will be considered an active enemy, but strategically speaking Hezbollah is the enemy."

Israel says Iran boosting bid to set up Hezbollah precision-missile plants in Lebanon

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rocket-from-gaza-draws-israeli-air-strikes-one-person-wounded-12126/amp">Israeli airstrikes</a> targeted a Palestinian faction loyal to the Syrian government in eastern Lebanon before dawn on Monday, Lebanese state media and the group said.

The strikes came just hours after the head of Lebanese Shiite movement Hezbollah threatened Israel after two drones fell on its Beirut stronghold in what he described as a targeted "drone attack".

The National News Agency said "three hostile strikes" after midnight hit Lebanon's eastern mountains near Qusaya town "where the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine - General Command has military posts".

"They responded well a barrage of anti-aircraft fire," it said.

PFLP-GC spokesman Anwar Raja told the Al-Mayadeen television channel that it was an Israeli strike.

The PFLP-GC has close ties to Hezbollah and Syria's government.&nbsp;

It has positions in the eastern region of Bekaa, as well as in Al-Naaemeh just south of Beirut.

Qusaya is only about five kilometres (three miles) from the Syrian border.

In July 2015, a security official said a blast at a PFLP-GC base there wounded seven people, while the Palestinian group blamed it on an Israeli strike.

On Sunday, Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah threatened Israel after what he described as a targeted "drone attack" in a stronghold of his group in the south of Beirut.

"The time when Israeli aircraft come and bombard parts of Lebanon is over," he said.

"I say to the Israeli army along the border, from tonight be ready and wait for us," he said. "What happened yesterday will not pass."

Hezbollah, considered a terrorist organisation by Israel and the United States, is a major political actor in Lebanon and also a key government backer in war-torn Syria.

The latest incident also came after Israel on Saturday launched strikes in neighbouring Syria to prevent what it said was an Iranian attack on the Jewish state.

Israeli airstrikes targeted a Palestinian faction loyal to the Syrian government in eastern Lebanon before dawn on Monday, Lebanese state media and the group said.

Israeli airstrikes targeted a Palestinian faction loyal to the Syrian government in eastern Lebanon before dawn on Monday, Lebanese state media and the group said. The strikes came just hours after the head of Lebanese Shiite movement Hezbollah threatened Israel after two drones fell on its Beirut stronghold in what he described as a targeted "drone attack". The National News Agency said "three hostile strikes" after midnight hit Lebanon's eastern mountains near Qusaya town "where the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine - General Command has military posts". "They responded well a barrage of anti-aircraft fire," it said. PFLP-GC spokesman Anwar Raja told the Al-Mayadeen television channel that it was an Israeli strike. The PFLP-GC has close ties to Hezbollah and Syria's government. It has positions in the eastern region of Bekaa, as well as in Al-Naaemeh just south of Beirut. Qusaya is only about five kilometres (three miles) from the Syrian border. In July 2015, a security official said a blast at a PFLP-GC base there wounded seven people, while the Palestinian group blamed it on an Israeli strike. On Sunday, Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah threatened Israel after what he described as a targeted "drone attack" in a stronghold of his group in the south of Beirut. "The time when Israeli aircraft come and bombard parts of Lebanon is over," he said. "I say to the Israeli army along the border, from tonight be ready and wait for us," he said. "What happened yesterday will not pass." Hezbollah, considered a terrorist organisation by Israel and the United States, is a major political actor in Lebanon and also a key government backer in war-torn Syria. The latest incident also came after Israel on Saturday launched strikes in neighbouring Syria to prevent what it said was an Iranian attack on the Jewish state.

Israeli strikes hit pro-Syria Palestinian group in Lebanon

Over 1,400 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deported-from-turkey-syrians-return-to-unfamiliar-country-239462">Syrian refugees have returned to their country</a> from Jordan and Lebanon over the past 24 hours, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Tuesday.

'Over the past day, 1,412 people returned to the Syrian Arab Republic from the territory of foreign states: 311 people, including 93 women and 158 children, from Lebanon via the Jaydet-Yabus and Talkalakh checkpoints; and 1,101 people, including 330 women and 562 children, from Jordan via the Nassib checkpoint,' Russia's Center for the Reception, Allocation and Accommodation of Refugees, which is looked after the country's defence ministry, said in its daily bulletin.

According to the bulletin, the Syrian engineering units defused 40 explosive devices throughout the country, clearing 2.5 hectares (6.17 acres) of the territory from mines.

Syria is marred by civil war since 2011.

More than 370,000 people were killed and millions were displaced in Syria and abroad since the beginning of the Syrian war in March 2011.

The Russian-backed offensive has so far failed to make major inroads into rebel territory in northern Hama and southern Idlib provinces, where <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mass-grave-discovered-in-syrias-raqqa-highlighting-islamic-states-brutality-233014">the Islamic State</a> (ISIS or ISIL) is putting up fierce resistance in their last remaining bastion in Syria.

However, Moscow and the Syrian army have repeatedly denied allegations of indiscriminate bombing of civilian areas or any campaign to paralyse the daily life in rebel-held areas.

Russia has blamed the terrorist group for breaking a truce by hitting government-held areas and said Turkey has failed to live up to its obligations under a deal brokered last year which created a buffer zone in the area that obliges it to push out rebels.

According to the United Nations, nearly half of the estimated three million inhabitants in northwest Syria - including Idlib province and parts of neighbouring provinces - had already fled the fighting and moved to areas near the border with Turkey.&nbsp;

Over 1,400 Syrian refugees have returned to their country from Jordan and Lebanon over the past 24 hours, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Tuesday. 'Over the past day, 1,412 people returned to the Syrian Arab Republic from the territory of foreign states: 311 people, including 93 women and 158 children, from Lebanon via the Jaydet-Yabus and Talkalakh checkpoints; and 1,101 people, including 330 women and 562 children, from Jordan via the Nassib checkpoint,' Russia's Center for the Reception, Allocation and Accommodation of Refugees, which is looked after the country's defence ministry, said in its daily bulletin.

Over 1,400 Syrian refugees have returned to their country from Jordan and Lebanon over the past 24 hours, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Tuesday. 'Over the past day, 1,412 people returned to the Syrian Arab Republic from the territory of foreign states: 311 people, including 93 women and 158 children, from Lebanon via the Jaydet-Yabus and Talkalakh checkpoints; and 1,101 people, including 330 women and 562 children, from Jordan via the Nassib checkpoint,' Russia's Center for the Reception, Allocation and Accommodation of Refugees, which is looked after the country's defence ministry, said in its daily bulletin. According to the bulletin, the Syrian engineering units defused 40 explosive devices throughout the country, clearing 2.5 hectares (6.17 acres) of the territory from mines. Syria is marred by civil war since 2011. More than 370,000 people were killed and millions were displaced in Syria and abroad since the beginning of the Syrian war in March 2011. The Russian-backed offensive has so far failed to make major inroads into rebel territory in northern Hama and southern Idlib provinces, where the Islamic State (ISIS or ISIL) is putting up fierce resistance in their last remaining bastion in Syria. However, Moscow and the Syrian army have repeatedly denied allegations of indiscriminate bombing of civilian areas or any campaign to paralyse the daily life in rebel-held areas. Russia has blamed the terrorist group for breaking a truce by hitting government-held areas and said Turkey has failed to live up to its obligations under a deal brokered last year which created a buffer zone in the area that obliges it to push out rebels. According to the United Nations, nearly half of the estimated three million inhabitants in northwest Syria - including Idlib province and parts of neighbouring provinces - had already fled the fighting and moved to areas near the border with Turkey.

Over 1,400 Syrian refugees returned home in 24 hours: Russia

A 30-year-old American held captive in Syria for two months was attempting to visit every country in the world, US media reported Friday after he had been freed.

Sam Goodwin was released by Syrian officials following the mediation of Abbas Ibrahim, the head of Lebanon's internal security, Goodwin's family told The New York Times and The Washington Post.

His disappearance had not been previously reported and the exact date of his release remained unclear.

"We are grateful to be reunited with our son Sam," Goodwin's parents, Thomas and Ann Goodwin, said in a statement. "Sam is healthy and with his family."

"We are forever indebted to Lebanese General Abbas Ibrahim and to all others who helped secure the release of our son," they said. "We will have more to say at a later date. Right now, we appreciate our privacy as we reconnect with Sam."

According to the Post, Goodwin was last seen on May 25 in the city of Qamishli in northeast Syria after crossing from Turkey as part of his bid to visit every country in the world.

Several other Americans have gone missing in Syria including Austin Tice, a freelance journalist who vanished in 2012.

A 30-year-old American held captive in Syria for two months was attempting to visit every country in the world, US media reported Friday after he had been freed.

A 30-year-old American held captive in Syria for two months was attempting to visit every country in the world, US media reported Friday after he had been freed. Sam Goodwin was released by Syrian officials following the mediation of Abbas Ibrahim, the head of Lebanon's internal security, Goodwin's family told The New York Times and The Washington Post. His disappearance had not been previously reported and the exact date of his release remained unclear. "We are grateful to be reunited with our son Sam," Goodwin's parents, Thomas and Ann Goodwin, said in a statement. "Sam is healthy and with his family." "We are forever indebted to Lebanese General Abbas Ibrahim and to all others who helped secure the release of our son," they said. "We will have more to say at a later date. Right now, we appreciate our privacy as we reconnect with Sam." According to the Post, Goodwin was last seen on May 25 in the city of Qamishli in northeast Syria after crossing from Turkey as part of his bid to visit every country in the world. Several other Americans have gone missing in Syria including Austin Tice, a freelance journalist who vanished in 2012.

American held in Syria freed after two months: US media

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-warns-iran-able-to-bombard-israel-if-war-started-235425">Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a> on Sunday warned the head of Lebanon's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-says-hunti-for-hezbollah-cross-border-tunnels-over-190046">Tehran-backed Hezbollah</a> that "crushing" retaliation would follow any attack after its leader said the group's rockets could reach Tel Aviv.

"Over the weekend we heard (Hassan) Nasrallah's boasting about his attack plans," he said at the start of the weekly cabinet meeting.

"Let me be clear if Hezbollah dares to make the mistake of attacking Israel, we will lay upon it and on Lebanon a crushing military blow."

In a Friday interview broadcast on Hezbollah's Al-Manar television, Nasrallah warned that key Israeli sites along the Mediterranean coast, including Tel Aviv, were "within range of our rockets".

The head of the Lebanese Shiite movement also said that Israel's arch-foe Iran was "able to bombard Israel with ferocity and force," but "will not start a war".

Last week, Netanyahu said that "Iran has been threatening the destruction of Israel" and warned that Israel's fighter jets "can reach anywhere in the Middle East, including Iran."

Hezbollah is considered to be a terrorist organisation by the United States and is the only faction not to have disarmed after Lebanon's 1975-1990 civil war.

But it is also a major political player in the small Mediterranean country, taking 13 seats in parliament last year and securing three posts in the current cabinet.

Israel has carried out hundreds of strikes in neighbouring Syria against what it says are Iranian and Hezbollah military targets. It has vowed to keep Iran from entrenching itself militarily there.

The Jewish state recently uncovered and destroyed six tunnels passing under the border from Lebanon into Israel.

It alleges Hezbollah had planned to use the tunnels for attacks in Israel.

Nasrallah's interview was to mark the anniversary of the start of his movement's 2006 war with Israel, which killed more than 1,200 Lebanese, mostly civilians, and more than 160 Israelis, mostly soldiers.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday warned the head of Lebanon's Tehran-backed Hezbollah that "crushing" retaliation would follow any attack after its leader said the group's rockets could reach Tel Aviv.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday warned the head of Lebanon's Tehran-backed Hezbollah that "crushing" retaliation would follow any attack after its leader said the group's rockets could reach Tel Aviv. "Over the weekend we heard (Hassan) Nasrallah's boasting about his attack plans," he said at the start of the weekly cabinet meeting. "Let me be clear if Hezbollah dares to make the mistake of attacking Israel, we will lay upon it and on Lebanon a crushing military blow." In a Friday interview broadcast on Hezbollah's Al-Manar television, Nasrallah warned that key Israeli sites along the Mediterranean coast, including Tel Aviv, were "within range of our rockets". The head of the Lebanese Shiite movement also said that Israel's arch-foe Iran was "able to bombard Israel with ferocity and force," but "will not start a war". Last week, Netanyahu said that "Iran has been threatening the destruction of Israel" and warned that Israel's fighter jets "can reach anywhere in the Middle East, including Iran." Hezbollah is considered to be a terrorist organisation by the United States and is the only faction not to have disarmed after Lebanon's 1975-1990 civil war. But it is also a major political player in the small Mediterranean country, taking 13 seats in parliament last year and securing three posts in the current cabinet. Israel has carried out hundreds of strikes in neighbouring Syria against what it says are Iranian and Hezbollah military targets. It has vowed to keep Iran from entrenching itself militarily there. The Jewish state recently uncovered and destroyed six tunnels passing under the border from Lebanon into Israel. It alleges Hezbollah had planned to use the tunnels for attacks in Israel. Nasrallah's interview was to mark the anniversary of the start of his movement's 2006 war with Israel, which killed more than 1,200 Lebanese, mostly civilians, and more than 160 Israelis, mostly soldiers.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warns of 'crushing' retaliation after Hezbollah chief's remarks

The US Treasury placed two <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-sees-united-states-war-on-iran-as-unlikely-report-230823">Hezbollah members of Lebanon's</a> parliament on its sanctions blacklist on Tuesday - the first time Washington has taken aim at the Iran-allied group's elected politicians.

Stepping up its effort to build global pressure on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-to-ban-hezbollah-under-anti-terror-laws-199666">powerful Lebanese Shiite movement</a>, the Treasury named MPs Amin Sherri and Muhammad Hasan Raad to a terror-related blacklist, saying that Hezbollah uses its parliamentary power to advance violent activities.

Also placed on the blacklist was Wafiq Safa, a top Hezbollah official close to the movement's Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the US targeted three officials "who leverage their positions to facilitate Hezbollah and the Iranian regime's malign efforts to undermine Lebanese sovereignty."

"Any distinction between Hezbollah's political and military wings is artificial," he said.

"We call on our allies and partners to designate Hezbollah in its entirety as a terrorist organization."

Pompeo tied the action to the US "maximum pressure" campaign against Iran and its "proxies" in the Middle East, including Hezbollah, which Washington has officially designated a "terrorist group."

However, Washington stopped short of imposing similar sanctions on &nbsp;Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, which Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said were forthcoming in late June.

A senior administration official who insisted on anonymity Tuesday would not confirm any plan to blacklist Zarif, who was crucial in achieving the landmark 2015 nuclear deal.

"We are obviously exploring... various avenues for additional sanctions on Tehran. Obviously Foreign Minister Zarif is a figure of key interest," she said.

It is the first time the US Treasury has placed Hezbollah lawmakers on its blacklist, which forbids US individuals and businesses with a US branch -- including leading international banks -&nbsp;from doing business with those sanctioned.

With the electoral backing of many Lebanese Shiites, Hezbollah won 13 seats out of 128 in the May 6, 2018 general election.

It joined a coalition government formed on January 31, gaining control of three ministries.

But Washington says it will not regard the group's political and military activities as separate from one another.

"It is time, we believe, for other nations around the world to recognize that there is no distinction between Hezbollah's political and military wing," the senior US administration official said.

"To any member of Hezbollah considering running for office, know that you will not be able to hide beneath the cover of political office," she said.

Raad, 64, is the head of the parliamentary bloc of the party and an MP since 1992.

Sherri, 62, is a 17-year Hezbollah veteran of parliament representing Beirut.

Safa, the Treasury said, maintains the group's ties to financiers and allegedly helps arrange the smuggling of weapons and drugs.

The newest sanctions brought to 50 the number of Hezbollah individuals and entities blacklisted by the Treasury since 2017.

They have included bankers and businessmen that Washington says are deeply involved in Hezbollah business activities around the world, allegedly including narcotics trafficking and gun-running.

The sanctions have aimed particularly at companies and individuals who help the group move money throughout the Middle East.

Hezbollah lawmaker Ali Fayyad told Lebanon's MTV news channel that the new sanctions Tuesday were "a humiliation for the Lebanese people," and called on parliament and the government to issue a formal condemnation.

Lebanese Finance Minister Ali Hasan Khalil meanwhile tweeted that the US sanctions were "unjustified" and "concern all of the Lebanese even if they are directed at Hezbollah."

Pompeo said the US pressure on Iran and Hezbollah was having an effect on the Lebanese group's operations.

"As a result, this designated terrorist organization has been forced to take unprecedented austerity measures. For example, in March 2019, for the first time ever, Hezbollah's leader Hassan Nasrallah made a public appeal for financial support."

The US Treasury placed two Hezbollah members of Lebanon's parliament on its sanctions blacklist on Tuesday - the first time Washington has taken aim at the Iran-allied group's elected politicians.

The US Treasury placed two Hezbollah members of Lebanon's parliament on its sanctions blacklist on Tuesday - the first time Washington has taken aim at the Iran-allied group's elected politicians. Stepping up its effort to build global pressure on the powerful Lebanese Shiite movement, the Treasury named MPs Amin Sherri and Muhammad Hasan Raad to a terror-related blacklist, saying that Hezbollah uses its parliamentary power to advance violent activities. Also placed on the blacklist was Wafiq Safa, a top Hezbollah official close to the movement's Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the US targeted three officials "who leverage their positions to facilitate Hezbollah and the Iranian regime's malign efforts to undermine Lebanese sovereignty." "Any distinction between Hezbollah's political and military wings is artificial," he said. "We call on our allies and partners to designate Hezbollah in its entirety as a terrorist organization." Pompeo tied the action to the US "maximum pressure" campaign against Iran and its "proxies" in the Middle East, including Hezbollah, which Washington has officially designated a "terrorist group." However, Washington stopped short of imposing similar sanctions on Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, which Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said were forthcoming in late June. A senior administration official who insisted on anonymity Tuesday would not confirm any plan to blacklist Zarif, who was crucial in achieving the landmark 2015 nuclear deal. "We are obviously exploring... various avenues for additional sanctions on Tehran. Obviously Foreign Minister Zarif is a figure of key interest," she said. It is the first time the US Treasury has placed Hezbollah lawmakers on its blacklist, which forbids US individuals and businesses with a US branch -- including leading international banks - from doing business with those sanctioned. With the electoral backing of many Lebanese Shiites, Hezbollah won 13 seats out of 128 in the May 6, 2018 general election. It joined a coalition government formed on January 31, gaining control of three ministries. But Washington says it will not regard the group's political and military activities as separate from one another. "It is time, we believe, for other nations around the world to recognize that there is no distinction between Hezbollah's political and military wing," the senior US administration official said. "To any member of Hezbollah considering running for office, know that you will not be able to hide beneath the cover of political office," she said. Raad, 64, is the head of the parliamentary bloc of the party and an MP since 1992. Sherri, 62, is a 17-year Hezbollah veteran of parliament representing Beirut. Safa, the Treasury said, maintains the group's ties to financiers and allegedly helps arrange the smuggling of weapons and drugs. The newest sanctions brought to 50 the number of Hezbollah individuals and entities blacklisted by the Treasury since 2017. They have included bankers and businessmen that Washington says are deeply involved in Hezbollah business activities around the world, allegedly including narcotics trafficking and gun-running. The sanctions have aimed particularly at companies and individuals who help the group move money throughout the Middle East. Hezbollah lawmaker Ali Fayyad told Lebanon's MTV news channel that the new sanctions Tuesday were "a humiliation for the Lebanese people," and called on parliament and the government to issue a formal condemnation. Lebanese Finance Minister Ali Hasan Khalil meanwhile tweeted that the US sanctions were "unjustified" and "concern all of the Lebanese even if they are directed at Hezbollah." Pompeo said the US pressure on Iran and Hezbollah was having an effect on the Lebanese group's operations. "As a result, this designated terrorist organization has been forced to take unprecedented austerity measures. For example, in March 2019, for the first time ever, Hezbollah's leader Hassan Nasrallah made a public appeal for financial support."

In a first, US puts two Hezbollah lawmakers on sanctions blacklist

White House senior adviser <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-middle-east-adviser-kushner-to-meet-european-union-leaders-224272">Jared Kushner</a> said on Wednesday that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-crown-prince-mohammed-bin-salman-doing-spectacular-job-donald-trump-231336">US President Donald Trump</a> is fond of Palestinian President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mahmoud-abbas-regains-health-could-be-discharged-by-tomorrow-138733">Mahmoud Abbas</a> and willing to engage with him, but Abbas was cool to the gesture.

In a conference call with reporters, Kushner said, "Our door is always open" to the Palestinians.

The Palestinians have refused to talk to Kushner and other architects of a US peace initiative unveiled at a Bahrain workshop last week. Kushner at the Manama conference outlined a $50 billion economic revival plan for the Palestinian territories, Jordan, Egypt and Lebanon that is dependent on Israel and the Palestinians reaching a political settlement to their decades-old conflict.

Trump's proposals to settling the thorny political issues remain secret and are to be released later this year. There are doubts among Palestinians as to whether his plan will include the long-standing goal of a "two-state solution" - Israel and Palestine existing side by side in peace.

"President Trump is very fond of President Abbas," Kushner, who is Trump's son-in-law, said. "He likes him very much personally. And at the right time if they’re willing to engage I believe that they’ll find that they’ll have an opportunity. Whether they will be willing to take that opportunity will be up to them."

Abbas, asked about Kushner's remarks in Ramallah, said he would resume dialogue with the United States should the latter assert its recognition of the two-state solution and the right of Palestinian refugees to return.

"You want a dialogue? If yes, then you need to recognize the two-state solution and that east Jerusalem is occupied and that the international legitimacy is the ground for any dialogue," Abbas said during an event at his Ramallah office in the Israeli-occupied West Bank.

"Send me those words on a piece of paper and the next day I will show up at the White House. Otherwise, no," he said. "Therefore, we are not closing doors with the United States, we are keeping the door narrowly open. If they like it, they are welcome," he added.

In comments likely to raise concerns among Palestinians, Kushner hinted that his peace plan might call on Palestinian refugees to settle where they are and not return to lands now in Israel.

Whether the hundreds of thousands of refugees from the 1948 war of Israel's founding, who with their descendants now number around 5 million, would exercise a right of return has been among the thorniest issues in decades of difficult diplomacy.

Israel has long ruled out any such influx as destabilizing, arguing that refugees should stay where they are or in a future Palestinian state. But prospects of such a state arising in the occupied West Bank and the Gaza Strip are themselves in doubt.

Asked by a Lebanese reporter whether the United States hoped Arab countries hosting Palestinian refugees would accept them permanently in exchange for funding, Kushner declined to answer directly, saying the matter would be addressed later. But he suggested a comparison with Jews displaced from Middle Eastern countries in 1948, many of whom Israel took in.

"Look, you have a situation when this whole thing started where you had 800,000 Jewish refugees that came out of all the different Middle Eastern countries and you had 800,000, roughly, Palestinian refugees," Kushner said. "And what's happened to the Israeli - to the Jewish - refugees, is they have been absorbed by different places whereas the Arab world has not absorbed a lot of these refugees over time.

"I think that the people of Lebanon would love to see a resolution to this issue, one that is fair," he said.

White House senior adviser Jared Kushner said on Wednesday that US President Donald Trump is fond of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and willing to engage with him, but Abbas was cool to the gesture.

White House senior adviser Jared Kushner said on Wednesday that US President Donald Trump is fond of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and willing to engage with him, but Abbas was cool to the gesture. In a conference call with reporters, Kushner said, "Our door is always open" to the Palestinians. The Palestinians have refused to talk to Kushner and other architects of a US peace initiative unveiled at a Bahrain workshop last week. Kushner at the Manama conference outlined a $50 billion economic revival plan for the Palestinian territories, Jordan, Egypt and Lebanon that is dependent on Israel and the Palestinians reaching a political settlement to their decades-old conflict. Trump's proposals to settling the thorny political issues remain secret and are to be released later this year. There are doubts among Palestinians as to whether his plan will include the long-standing goal of a "two-state solution" - Israel and Palestine existing side by side in peace. "President Trump is very fond of President Abbas," Kushner, who is Trump's son-in-law, said. "He likes him very much personally. And at the right time if they’re willing to engage I believe that they’ll find that they’ll have an opportunity. Whether they will be willing to take that opportunity will be up to them." Abbas, asked about Kushner's remarks in Ramallah, said he would resume dialogue with the United States should the latter assert its recognition of the two-state solution and the right of Palestinian refugees to return. "You want a dialogue? If yes, then you need to recognize the two-state solution and that east Jerusalem is occupied and that the international legitimacy is the ground for any dialogue," Abbas said during an event at his Ramallah office in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. "Send me those words on a piece of paper and the next day I will show up at the White House. Otherwise, no," he said. "Therefore, we are not closing doors with the United States, we are keeping the door narrowly open. If they like it, they are welcome," he added. In comments likely to raise concerns among Palestinians, Kushner hinted that his peace plan might call on Palestinian refugees to settle where they are and not return to lands now in Israel. Whether the hundreds of thousands of refugees from the 1948 war of Israel's founding, who with their descendants now number around 5 million, would exercise a right of return has been among the thorniest issues in decades of difficult diplomacy. Israel has long ruled out any such influx as destabilizing, arguing that refugees should stay where they are or in a future Palestinian state. But prospects of such a state arising in the occupied West Bank and the Gaza Strip are themselves in doubt. Asked by a Lebanese reporter whether the United States hoped Arab countries hosting Palestinian refugees would accept them permanently in exchange for funding, Kushner declined to answer directly, saying the matter would be addressed later. But he suggested a comparison with Jews displaced from Middle Eastern countries in 1948, many of whom Israel took in. "Look, you have a situation when this whole thing started where you had 800,000 Jewish refugees that came out of all the different Middle Eastern countries and you had 800,000, roughly, Palestinian refugees," Kushner said. "And what's happened to the Israeli - to the Jewish - refugees, is they have been absorbed by different places whereas the Arab world has not absorbed a lot of these refugees over time. "I think that the people of Lebanon would love to see a resolution to this issue, one that is fair," he said.

Trump 'very fond' of Palestine's Mahmoud Abbas, willing to engage on a peace plan: Jared Kushner

India had carried out one of its best evacuation operations from a war-like zone in 2006, when it brought back home around 2,300 people, including some from Sri Lanka and Nepal, who were caught in the Israel-Lebanon conflict, says a new book.

In Challenges of Governance: An Insider's View, former Cabinet Secretary B K Chaturvedi recalls his experiences as a top bureaucrat on issues of governance, coalition politics and handling emergencies, like the evacuation of Indian citizens from the simmering war zone 13 years ago.

It was a rescue operation designed to provide support to those persons, mostly Indian citizens, who were caught in the war-like zone of Lebanon-Israel, he says, noting that 12,000 Indians were living in Lebanon at the time.

Chaturvedi, who was overseeing the developments from New Delhi, recalls that tension was escalating in the region and travelling by road was becoming increasingly dangerous so the government opted for sea route to bring them to a port in Cyprus from where Air India planes would fly them to Delhi.

The Israelis started bombarding Lebanese positions, and there was a naval blockade of the Lebanese coast. With escalating tensions, the Indian embassy in Lebanon evacuated families of its staffers, as it was becoming a dangerous conflict zone and lives were in danger.

This evacuation was done via neighbouring Syria. The families travelled by road to Syria and then from its capital, Damascus, undertook an onward journey to India. But this was worrisome, for there were about 12,000 Indians living in Lebanon then, and many were scared for their lives. There were also a large number of residents from other South Asian countries, the US and Europe who wanted to be evacuated, he says.

On July 18, 2006, while discussing the situation with the foreign secretary and the chief of naval staff he said they were informed that several Indian ships were in the Mediterranean Sea region for naval exercises, and that they were returning and could be used for the Lebanon evacuation.

There were, however, several risks, for which we had to be adequately prepared. The decision had to be taken immediately, as our ships would be entering the Suez Canal any time, and once they did, their return would be time-consuming. Traffic was only one-way and the movement was strictly controlled by Egyptian port authorities. The width of the canal was small and did not permit any U-turns.

"Our ships were going to be involved in a humanitarian exercise and we were worried they might get caught in the crossfire between Israel and Lebanon, Chaturvedi adds.

Indian ships heard a lot of messages and communication chatter which made it clear that Israel was going to put a blockade on the Lebanese port, while several people who were to be evacuated lost their papers in disturbed conditions and had to be given temporary documents, he recalls.

Coordination was required with Cyprus authorities. Our High Commissioner in Cyprus and ambassador for Lebanon needed to be in close touch with the local authorities and the government of Israel. We needed an understanding so that the exchange of fire between Hezbollah and Israel could be temporarily stopped when the evacuation process was going on,&nbsp; 
Chaturvedi says in the book, brought out by Rupa Publications.

We worked out a plan so that those wishing to be evacuated could be helped by the Indian embassy and moved to Beirut. Ships of the Indian Navy were then to be used to evacuate them to Larnaca, the neighbouring port of Cyprus. Air India was then expected to bring them back to Delhi, he says, adding the prime minister was also briefed.

Further, the Indian authorities needed to negotiate several issues despite previous formal communications to ensure the transit was smooth and seamless.

This required constant liaison with the local authorities. This was important, as many of the people being evacuated from Lebanon did not have complete travel documents.

Immigration and security issues had to be sorted out. The problem was compounded as coordination with the Lebanese port authority was required and getting to them was a problem. Considering that more than 2,000 people were coming to board the ships, extensive arrangements were required for the journey, he says.

Chaturvedi recalls Air India did not operate from Cyprus then and special permission was sought for allotting parking bays to the a number of flights of the national career, while the Indian Ambassador to Cyprus Neelam Sabharwal was in touch with local authorities to enable a quick issue of visas to the Air India crew.

Also, since getting visas for so many people travelling via Cyprus was not acceptable to their government under the European Union (EU) system, a novel system of transit slips was evolved. This would enable a transfer of passengers straight from the naval ships to the Air India aircraft.&nbsp;

Our preparations paid off and the evacuation process went smoothly, and was well appreciated by both the NRIs and neighbouring Sri Lanka and Nepal, whose citizens were also brought home by the Air India flights.&nbsp;

Nearly 2,300 individuals were evacuated. It indicated the effectiveness of our system in emergencies, he says.

Sabharwal, later recalled to me, ''India's evacuation operation via Cyprus was considered as best coordinated and most efficient by the government of Cyprus, foreign correspondents, diplomats and international organizations. In fact, it was described as a role model for the EU and other nations to emulate'', he writes.

India had carried out one of its best evacuation operations from a war-like zone in 2006, when it brought back home around 2,300 people, including some from Sri Lanka and Nepal, who were caught in the Israel-Lebanon conflict, says a new book.

India had carried out one of its best evacuation operations from a war-like zone in 2006, when it brought back home around 2,300 people, including some from Sri Lanka and Nepal, who were caught in the Israel-Lebanon conflict, says a new book. In Challenges of Governance: An Insider's View, former Cabinet Secretary B K Chaturvedi recalls his experiences as a top bureaucrat on issues of governance, coalition politics and handling emergencies, like the evacuation of Indian citizens from the simmering war zone 13 years ago. It was a rescue operation designed to provide support to those persons, mostly Indian citizens, who were caught in the war-like zone of Lebanon-Israel, he says, noting that 12,000 Indians were living in Lebanon at the time. Chaturvedi, who was overseeing the developments from New Delhi, recalls that tension was escalating in the region and travelling by road was becoming increasingly dangerous so the government opted for sea route to bring them to a port in Cyprus from where Air India planes would fly them to Delhi. The Israelis started bombarding Lebanese positions, and there was a naval blockade of the Lebanese coast. With escalating tensions, the Indian embassy in Lebanon evacuated families of its staffers, as it was becoming a dangerous conflict zone and lives were in danger. This evacuation was done via neighbouring Syria. The families travelled by road to Syria and then from its capital, Damascus, undertook an onward journey to India. But this was worrisome, for there were about 12,000 Indians living in Lebanon then, and many were scared for their lives. There were also a large number of residents from other South Asian countries, the US and Europe who wanted to be evacuated, he says. On July 18, 2006, while discussing the situation with the foreign secretary and the chief of naval staff he said they were informed that several Indian ships were in the Mediterranean Sea region for naval exercises, and that they were returning and could be used for the Lebanon evacuation. There were, however, several risks, for which we had to be adequately prepared. The decision had to be taken immediately, as our ships would be entering the Suez Canal any time, and once they did, their return would be time-consuming. Traffic was only one-way and the movement was strictly controlled by Egyptian port authorities. The width of the canal was small and did not permit any U-turns. "Our ships were going to be involved in a humanitarian exercise and we were worried they might get caught in the crossfire between Israel and Lebanon, Chaturvedi adds. Indian ships heard a lot of messages and communication chatter which made it clear that Israel was going to put a blockade on the Lebanese port, while several people who were to be evacuated lost their papers in disturbed conditions and had to be given temporary documents, he recalls. Coordination was required with Cyprus authorities. Our High Commissioner in Cyprus and ambassador for Lebanon needed to be in close touch with the local authorities and the government of Israel. We needed an understanding so that the exchange of fire between Hezbollah and Israel could be temporarily stopped when the evacuation process was going on, Chaturvedi says in the book, brought out by Rupa Publications. We worked out a plan so that those wishing to be evacuated could be helped by the Indian embassy and moved to Beirut. Ships of the Indian Navy were then to be used to evacuate them to Larnaca, the neighbouring port of Cyprus. Air India was then expected to bring them back to Delhi, he says, adding the prime minister was also briefed. Further, the Indian authorities needed to negotiate several issues despite previous formal communications to ensure the transit was smooth and seamless. This required constant liaison with the local authorities. This was important, as many of the people being evacuated from Lebanon did not have complete travel documents. Immigration and security issues had to be sorted out. The problem was compounded as coordination with the Lebanese port authority was required and getting to them was a problem. Considering that more than 2,000 people were coming to board the ships, extensive arrangements were required for the journey, he says. Chaturvedi recalls Air India did not operate from Cyprus then and special permission was sought for allotting parking bays to the a number of flights of the national career, while the Indian Ambassador to Cyprus Neelam Sabharwal was in touch with local authorities to enable a quick issue of visas to the Air India crew. Also, since getting visas for so many people travelling via Cyprus was not acceptable to their government under the European Union (EU) system, a novel system of transit slips was evolved. This would enable a transfer of passengers straight from the naval ships to the Air India aircraft. Our preparations paid off and the evacuation process went smoothly, and was well appreciated by both the NRIs and neighbouring Sri Lanka and Nepal, whose citizens were also brought home by the Air India flights. Nearly 2,300 individuals were evacuated. It indicated the effectiveness of our system in emergencies, he says. Sabharwal, later recalled to me, ''India's evacuation operation via Cyprus was considered as best coordinated and most efficient by the government of Cyprus, foreign correspondents, diplomats and international organizations. In fact, it was described as a role model for the EU and other nations to emulate'', he writes.

How India evacuated nearly 2,300 citizens during Israel-Lebanon war 2006

The Israeli army on Monday showed the inside of a sophisticated tunnel passing deep underground from Lebanon into northern Israel, saying it was intended for use by Lebanese Hezbollah militants. The tunnel was rigged with electrical wiring, fuse boxes and communications equipment. An army spokesman said it began almost a kilometre (mile) away inside Lebanon and reached depths of some 80 meters (265 feet) - about the height of a 22-storey building - as it crossed into Israel, near the town of Zarit.

Tunnel crossing between Lebanon and Israel went 22 storeys deep

Israel&nbsp;voiced&nbsp;openness on Monday to&nbsp;US-mediated&nbsp;talks&nbsp;with&nbsp;Lebanon&nbsp;on resolving a dispute over the neighbours' maritime&nbsp;border&nbsp;that has dogged Mediterranean oil and gas exploration.

Such&nbsp;talks,&nbsp;Israeli Energy Minister Yuval Steinitz's office said in a statement after he met&nbsp;US&nbsp;envoy David Satterfield, could be "for the good of both countries' interests in developing natural gas reserves and oil" by agreeing on a&nbsp;border.

There was no immediate comment from Lebanese or&nbsp;US&nbsp;officials.

Technically at war since&nbsp;Israel's founding in 1948,&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;and&nbsp;Lebanon&nbsp;have long disagreed on&nbsp;border&nbsp;demarcations, a dispute affecting a&nbsp;sea&nbsp;area of about 860 sq km (330 square miles) extending along the edge of three of&nbsp;Lebanon's southern energy blocks.

Waters in one of those blocks are also claimed by&nbsp;Israel, which kicked off a gas bonanza in the eastern Mediterranean almost a decade ago with the discovery of two huge gas fields.

The dispute has led to years of brinkmanship with both sides promising to protect their resources and warning about encroachment.

Israel voiced openness on Monday to US-mediated talks with Lebanon on resolving a dispute over the neighbours' maritime border that has dogged Mediterranean oil and gas exploration.

Israel voiced openness on Monday to US-mediated talks with Lebanon on resolving a dispute over the neighbours' maritime border that has dogged Mediterranean oil and gas exploration. Such talks, Israeli Energy Minister Yuval Steinitz's office said in a statement after he met US envoy David Satterfield, could be "for the good of both countries' interests in developing natural gas reserves and oil" by agreeing on a border. There was no immediate comment from Lebanese or US officials. Technically at war since Israel's founding in 1948, Israel and Lebanon have long disagreed on border demarcations, a dispute affecting a sea area of about 860 sq km (330 square miles) extending along the edge of three of Lebanon's southern energy blocks. Waters in one of those blocks are also claimed by Israel, which kicked off a gas bonanza in the eastern Mediterranean almost a decade ago with the discovery of two huge gas fields. The dispute has led to years of brinkmanship with both sides promising to protect their resources and warning about encroachment.

Israel open to US-mediated talks with Lebanon on sea border

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - May 5th, 2019

The West Asia Post: Lebanon fashion label goes green !

Bashar al-Assad has won his war for political survival but as Syria's conflict enters its ninth year, his country is fractured, cash-strapped, and pray to both friend and foe.

The civil war reaches its eighth anniversary this month with more than 360,000 people killed, millions more displaced, and devastation worth $400 billion.

As the war winds down, Syrians in regime-held areas may no longer have to worry about bombardment, but they face fuel shortages, frequent power cuts, unemployment, and rampant poverty.

From the brutal repression of anti-Assad protests in 2011, the war spiraled into a complex conflict involving jihadists.

Syria's president may have reversed the initial gains of the armed opposition and jihadists, but foreign powers have entered his turf.

"The Syrian conflict is more complicated because there are now powerful foreign actors that control large zones inside Syria," said Nicholas Heras, an analyst at the Centre for a New American Security.

"And these foreign actors are not likely to leave Syria any time soon."

Backed by Russia and Iran, Assad's forces now control almost two-thirds of the country.

But key areas remain beyond his control, including a swathe of the oil-rich northeast held by US-backed Kurdish-led forces fighting the Islamic State group.

The northwestern region of Idlib, held by Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate, is protected by a ceasefire deal, which has seen Turkish troops deployed to the area.

And Ankara's Syrian rebel proxies hold several northern cities near the border.

Joshua Landis, of the University of Oklahoma, painted a grim picture.

"The Syrian map is one of division and despair," he said.

"Over 30 percent of the country is occupied by foreign governments who have built and funded local militaries."

- Return on investment -

Various foreign powers are competing to reap a return on years of military investment or protect their interests.

Russia has backed Assad with troops and air strikes since 2015, while Iran has dispatched advisers as well as Shiite fighters from Lebanon and Iraq.

"Russia wants to stabilize Assad to keep a steady local partner to guard its expanding bases in Syria" and project power region-wide, Heras said.

Iran wants a foothold in Syria, in case of a war between its Lebanese ally Hezbollah and Israel to the southwest, he said.

Both allies hope to play a key role in reconstruction and have signed deals including for electricity, oil and infrastructure projects.

Turkey and the United States, who have traditionally backed non-state actors, have other interests.

President Recep Tayyip "Erdogan wants to rip the Kurds out of America's embrace" and impose Turkey in northern and eastern Syria, Heras said.

Washington backs Kurdish-led fighters who control a large and oil-rich northeastern swathe and has US troops in Syria as part of the anti-IS fight drawing to a close near the Iraqi border.

Turkey views Kurdish fighters as "terrorists" and has long threatened to attack the Kurds south of its border.

Washington is to dial down its presence to 200 "peace-keeping" troops after IS is expelled from its last pocket.

As well as shielding the Kurds from Turkey, a US presence piles pressure on Assad.

"Assad needs the water and wheat that the United States controls in eastern Syria," Heras said.

But "it is US policy to keep these resources from him and force the economy of Assad's statelet to collapse around him," he added.

- 'Three jobs' to get by - 
Along with the European Union, the United States has ramped up sanctions on Syrian officials and companies, including by seeking to prevent oil shipments to the country.

Landis said those measures were compounding post-war challenges, chief among them relaunching a devastated economy.

"The US is imposing one of the strictest sanctions regimes on Syria which will continue to deepen the misery of the people," he added.

Plus "the worst characteristics of the regime have been strengthened in the struggle to win the civil war: corruption, violence, and the absence of the rule of law," he said.

Shadi Abbas, 40, is struggling to return to a normal life after a routine military service lasted a whole eight years.

"I feel I have to work three jobs" to make ends meet, he said.

"Even if I found some money and work, who will give me back my youth," he said.

But after years of war, Assad has secured his capital, regained control of key commercial arteries, and started a timid comeback on the Arab scene.

Much to the despair of the fragmented opposition, several countries have called for Syria to be reintegrated into the Arab League, from which it was suspended as the death toll mounted in 2011.

Remaining rebels and jihadists are largely confined to Idlib after being ferried out of other parts of the country retaken by the regime.

The political opposition is scattered abroad and has failed to end the bloodshed in numerous rounds of abortive peace talks.

Whatever the challenges, "revolution is on low flame, and that is a win for Assad," Heras said.

Bashar al-Assad has won his war for political survival but as Syria's conflict enters its ninth year, his country is fractured, cash-strapped, and pray to both friend and foe.

Bashar al-Assad has won his war for political survival but as Syria's conflict enters its ninth year, his country is fractured, cash-strapped, and pray to both friend and foe. The civil war reaches its eighth anniversary this month with more than 360,000 people killed, millions more displaced, and devastation worth $400 billion. As the war winds down, Syrians in regime-held areas may no longer have to worry about bombardment, but they face fuel shortages, frequent power cuts, unemployment, and rampant poverty. From the brutal repression of anti-Assad protests in 2011, the war spiraled into a complex conflict involving jihadists. Syria's president may have reversed the initial gains of the armed opposition and jihadists, but foreign powers have entered his turf. "The Syrian conflict is more complicated because there are now powerful foreign actors that control large zones inside Syria," said Nicholas Heras, an analyst at the Centre for a New American Security. "And these foreign actors are not likely to leave Syria any time soon." Backed by Russia and Iran, Assad's forces now control almost two-thirds of the country. But key areas remain beyond his control, including a swathe of the oil-rich northeast held by US-backed Kurdish-led forces fighting the Islamic State group. The northwestern region of Idlib, held by Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate, is protected by a ceasefire deal, which has seen Turkish troops deployed to the area. And Ankara's Syrian rebel proxies hold several northern cities near the border. Joshua Landis, of the University of Oklahoma, painted a grim picture. "The Syrian map is one of division and despair," he said. "Over 30 percent of the country is occupied by foreign governments who have built and funded local militaries." - Return on investment - Various foreign powers are competing to reap a return on years of military investment or protect their interests. Russia has backed Assad with troops and air strikes since 2015, while Iran has dispatched advisers as well as Shiite fighters from Lebanon and Iraq. "Russia wants to stabilize Assad to keep a steady local partner to guard its expanding bases in Syria" and project power region-wide, Heras said. Iran wants a foothold in Syria, in case of a war between its Lebanese ally Hezbollah and Israel to the southwest, he said. Both allies hope to play a key role in reconstruction and have signed deals including for electricity, oil and infrastructure projects. Turkey and the United States, who have traditionally backed non-state actors, have other interests. President Recep Tayyip "Erdogan wants to rip the Kurds out of America's embrace" and impose Turkey in northern and eastern Syria, Heras said. Washington backs Kurdish-led fighters who control a large and oil-rich northeastern swathe and has US troops in Syria as part of the anti-IS fight drawing to a close near the Iraqi border. Turkey views Kurdish fighters as "terrorists" and has long threatened to attack the Kurds south of its border. Washington is to dial down its presence to 200 "peace-keeping" troops after IS is expelled from its last pocket. As well as shielding the Kurds from Turkey, a US presence piles pressure on Assad. "Assad needs the water and wheat that the United States controls in eastern Syria," Heras said. But "it is US policy to keep these resources from him and force the economy of Assad's statelet to collapse around him," he added. - 'Three jobs' to get by - Along with the European Union, the United States has ramped up sanctions on Syrian officials and companies, including by seeking to prevent oil shipments to the country. Landis said those measures were compounding post-war challenges, chief among them relaunching a devastated economy. "The US is imposing one of the strictest sanctions regimes on Syria which will continue to deepen the misery of the people," he added. Plus "the worst characteristics of the regime have been strengthened in the struggle to win the civil war: corruption, violence, and the absence of the rule of law," he said. Shadi Abbas, 40, is struggling to return to a normal life after a routine military service lasted a whole eight years. "I feel I have to work three jobs" to make ends meet, he said. "Even if I found some money and work, who will give me back my youth," he said. But after years of war, Assad has secured his capital, regained control of key commercial arteries, and started a timid comeback on the Arab scene. Much to the despair of the fragmented opposition, several countries have called for Syria to be reintegrated into the Arab League, from which it was suspended as the death toll mounted in 2011. Remaining rebels and jihadists are largely confined to Idlib after being ferried out of other parts of the country retaken by the regime. The political opposition is scattered abroad and has failed to end the bloodshed in numerous rounds of abortive peace talks. Whatever the challenges, "revolution is on low flame, and that is a win for Assad," Heras said.

Eight years on, Assad clings on but beleaguered

Lebanon's economy needs urgent "surgery" or it could collapse, Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri said on Sunday, though he also tried to reassure foreign donors that politicians remained fully united behind reforms agreed with them last year.

After nine months of wrangling over cabinet portfolios, Lebanon's politicians finally formed a government 10 days ago. The heavily-indebted country has said it will enact long-overdue reforms to avoid a worsening of economic, financial and social conditions.

"Today in Lebanon we don't have time for luxury in politics because our economy could be subjected to collapse if we do not carry out this surgery quickly and with (political) unanimity," he told the World Government Summit in Dubai.

International donor institutions and foreign governments want to see the new government enact reforms before releasing some $11 billion in financial assistance pledged at a Paris conference last April called "Cedre".

"I tell you there is political unanimity in Lebanon on all the reforms that happened at Cedre and there is a political consensus to fight corruption," he said.

While in the United Arab Emirates, Hariri met Dubai's ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and other Emirati officials.

Separately, Hariri met the International Monetary Fund's Managing Director Christine Lagarde.

Lebanon's economy needs urgent "surgery" or it could collapse, Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri said on Sunday, though he also tried to reassure foreign donors that politicians remained fully united behind reforms agreed with them last year.

Lebanon's economy needs urgent "surgery" or it could collapse, Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri said on Sunday, though he also tried to reassure foreign donors that politicians remained fully united behind reforms agreed with them last year. After nine months of wrangling over cabinet portfolios, Lebanon's politicians finally formed a government 10 days ago. The heavily-indebted country has said it will enact long-overdue reforms to avoid a worsening of economic, financial and social conditions. "Today in Lebanon we don't have time for luxury in politics because our economy could be subjected to collapse if we do not carry out this surgery quickly and with (political) unanimity," he told the World Government Summit in Dubai. International donor institutions and foreign governments want to see the new government enact reforms before releasing some $11 billion in financial assistance pledged at a Paris conference last April called "Cedre". "I tell you there is political unanimity in Lebanon on all the reforms that happened at Cedre and there is a political consensus to fight corruption," he said. While in the United Arab Emirates, Hariri met Dubai's ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and other Emirati officials. Separately, Hariri met the International Monetary Fund's Managing Director Christine Lagarde.

Lebanese economy needs urgent 'surgery' to avoid collapse: PM Hariri

Iran is waiting for Lebanon to show a desire to accept its military assistance, Iran's foreign minister said on Sunday, reiterating an offer of support to the US-backed Lebanese military.

Mohammad Javad Zarif, whose government backs the powerful Lebanese Shi'ite group Hezbollah, was speaking at Beirut airport at the start of his first visit to Lebanon since its new government was formed late last month.

Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah said last week he was ready to secure air defence systems for the Lebanese army from Iran to confront Israeli warplanes and to secure "everything it wants to be the strongest army in the region".

Asked if Iran was ready to offer military aid, Zarif said, "We always have this type of readiness and we announced on other occasions that this tendency exists in Iran but we are waiting for this desire to exist on the Lebanese side."

The United States, which lists Hezbollah as a terrorist group, says its military aid to Lebanon aims to strengthen the army as "the sole" military force defending the country and to counter threats from neighbouring Syria.

The new Lebanese national unity government is led by the Western-backed Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri and groups most of the main political factions, including Hezbollah, which has expanded its role in the new cabinet.

Zarif, who is due to meet government officials on Monday, said his visit aimed to declare Iran's support for Lebanon and to announce that it "has complete and comprehensive readiness to deal with the brotherly Lebanese government in all areas".

In a speech last week, Nasrallah asked why Lebanon was "ignoring" Iran while "offering our necks to others" - an apparent reference to the United States, which has tightened sanctions against his group.

The make-up of Hariri's government largely reflects the result of a parliamentary election last year, in which Hezbollah and groups that support its possession of arms secured more than 70 of the 128 seats in parliament.

The role of Hezbollah, a heavily armed group founded by Iran's Revolutionary Guards in 1982, has grown through its naming of the new health minister - the first time it has controlled a ministry with a large budget.

Iran is waiting for Lebanon to show a desire to accept its military assistance, Iran's foreign minister said on Sunday, reiterating an offer of support to the US-backed Lebanese military.

Iran is waiting for Lebanon to show a desire to accept its military assistance, Iran's foreign minister said on Sunday, reiterating an offer of support to the US-backed Lebanese military. Mohammad Javad Zarif, whose government backs the powerful Lebanese Shi'ite group Hezbollah, was speaking at Beirut airport at the start of his first visit to Lebanon since its new government was formed late last month. Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah said last week he was ready to secure air defence systems for the Lebanese army from Iran to confront Israeli warplanes and to secure "everything it wants to be the strongest army in the region". Asked if Iran was ready to offer military aid, Zarif said, "We always have this type of readiness and we announced on other occasions that this tendency exists in Iran but we are waiting for this desire to exist on the Lebanese side." The United States, which lists Hezbollah as a terrorist group, says its military aid to Lebanon aims to strengthen the army as "the sole" military force defending the country and to counter threats from neighbouring Syria. The new Lebanese national unity government is led by the Western-backed Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri and groups most of the main political factions, including Hezbollah, which has expanded its role in the new cabinet. Zarif, who is due to meet government officials on Monday, said his visit aimed to declare Iran's support for Lebanon and to announce that it "has complete and comprehensive readiness to deal with the brotherly Lebanese government in all areas". In a speech last week, Nasrallah asked why Lebanon was "ignoring" Iran while "offering our necks to others" - an apparent reference to the United States, which has tightened sanctions against his group. The make-up of Hariri's government largely reflects the result of a parliamentary election last year, in which Hezbollah and groups that support its possession of arms secured more than 70 of the 128 seats in parliament. The role of Hezbollah, a heavily armed group founded by Iran's Revolutionary Guards in 1982, has grown through its naming of the new health minister - the first time it has controlled a ministry with a large budget.

Iran awaits Lebanese 'desire' to accept its military aid: Foreign minister

In pics: Syrian children in focus at Sarajevo museum on war and childhood

Israel said Sunday it had <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/israel-conducts-air-strike-against-iranian-weapons-depot-in-syria-190012">uncovered all cross-border attack tunnels</a> dug by Hezbollah from Lebanon and will bring its operation to find and destroy them to an end after more than a month.

The operation which began on December 4 had raised concerns that Hezbollah, the Lebanon-based Shiite group and enemy of Israel, would respond and spark a new conflict between them, but the border has remained calm throughout.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/israel-retaliates-after-rocket-fired-into-gaza-army-189938">An Israeli military</a> spokesman declined to say how many tunnels had been discovered in total, but the army has announced six since the operation was launched.

The last tunnel was exposed on Saturday, the army said.

"We have found yet another Hezbollah cross-border attack tunnel from Lebanon to Israel," Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Conricus told reporters.

"According to our intelligence and our assessment of the situation, there are no longer any cross-border attack tunnels from Lebanon into Israel."

The latest tunnel began in the Lebanese village of Ramyeh, some 800 metres (yards) away from Israel, the army said.

It reached a few dozen metres into Israel, and at 55 metres underground was the deepest as well as "the longest and most detailed" of all the tunnels the army exposed, Conricus said.

The army said its discovery marked the end of the operation that it called "Northern Shield" and that the last tunnel will be destroyed in the coming days.

'Achieved the goal'&nbsp;

The tunnels are being destroyed either with explosives or by filling them with a cement-like material to make them unusable.

"We have achieved the goal (to expose and destroy the tunnels from Lebanon) which we set out to achieve at the beginning," Conricus said.

Conricus said there were no more tunnels reaching Israel from Lebanon but the army was still monitoring "facilities" being dug by Hezbollah inside Lebanese territory.

He also reiterated that Israel holds the Lebanese government accountable "for any act of violence or violation of 1701," the UN resolution that ended the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah.

UNIFIL, the UN peacekeeping force in Lebanon, was informed of the latest tunnel, Conricus said.

Israel alleges Hezbollah had planned to use the tunnels to kidnap or kill its civilians or soldiers, and to seize a slice of Israeli territory in the event of any hostilities. It has said, however, that they were not yet operational.

A month-long war in 2006 between Israel and Hezbollah killed more than 1,200 Lebanese, mostly civilians, and more than 160 Israelis, mostly soldiers.

Israel says all anti-tunnel operations have taken place within its territory, and the highly publicised mission has gone ahead without drawing a military response from Hezbollah.

The announcement that the operation is ending comes as military chief of staff Gadi Eisenkot steps down at the end of his term.

Israeli analysts see the operation as one of Eisenkot's important achievements. 
&nbsp;

An Israeli military spokesman declined to say how many tunnels had been discovered in total, but the army has announced six since the operation was launched.

Israel said Sunday it had uncovered all cross-border attack tunnels dug by Hezbollah from Lebanon and will bring its operation to find and destroy them to an end after more than a month. The operation which began on December 4 had raised concerns that Hezbollah, the Lebanon-based Shiite group and enemy of Israel, would respond and spark a new conflict between them, but the border has remained calm throughout. An Israeli military spokesman declined to say how many tunnels had been discovered in total, but the army has announced six since the operation was launched. The last tunnel was exposed on Saturday, the army said. "We have found yet another Hezbollah cross-border attack tunnel from Lebanon to Israel," Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Conricus told reporters. "According to our intelligence and our assessment of the situation, there are no longer any cross-border attack tunnels from Lebanon into Israel." The latest tunnel began in the Lebanese village of Ramyeh, some 800 metres (yards) away from Israel, the army said. It reached a few dozen metres into Israel, and at 55 metres underground was the deepest as well as "the longest and most detailed" of all the tunnels the army exposed, Conricus said. The army said its discovery marked the end of the operation that it called "Northern Shield" and that the last tunnel will be destroyed in the coming days. 'Achieved the goal' The tunnels are being destroyed either with explosives or by filling them with a cement-like material to make them unusable. "We have achieved the goal (to expose and destroy the tunnels from Lebanon) which we set out to achieve at the beginning," Conricus said. Conricus said there were no more tunnels reaching Israel from Lebanon but the army was still monitoring "facilities" being dug by Hezbollah inside Lebanese territory. He also reiterated that Israel holds the Lebanese government accountable "for any act of violence or violation of 1701," the UN resolution that ended the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah. UNIFIL, the UN peacekeeping force in Lebanon, was informed of the latest tunnel, Conricus said. Israel alleges Hezbollah had planned to use the tunnels to kidnap or kill its civilians or soldiers, and to seize a slice of Israeli territory in the event of any hostilities. It has said, however, that they were not yet operational. A month-long war in 2006 between Israel and Hezbollah killed more than 1,200 Lebanese, mostly civilians, and more than 160 Israelis, mostly soldiers. Israel says all anti-tunnel operations have taken place within its territory, and the highly publicised mission has gone ahead without drawing a military response from Hezbollah. The announcement that the operation is ending comes as military chief of staff Gadi Eisenkot steps down at the end of his term. Israeli analysts see the operation as one of Eisenkot's important achievements.

Israel says all Hezbollah cross-border tunnels found

Saudi Arabia's national soccer team&nbsp;qualified for the 2019 AFC Asian Cup knockout stage, having earned a 2-0 victory over Lebanon in their Group E second-round match at Al Maktoum Stadium in the United Arab Emirates city of Dubai.&nbsp; 
 
Forward Fahad Al Muwallad and midfielder Hussain Almoqahwi scored for Saudi Arabia, leading the three-time AFC champion to the Asian Cup round of 16 for the seventh time in history. 
 
Al Muwallad opened the scoring for Saudi Arabia just 12 minutes into the game with a right-footed shot from the right side of the box, sending the ball to the high center of the goal. 
 
After the break, Almoqahwi doubled the Saudi lead seven minutes after the hour-mark with a close-range right-footed shot, seizing on a cross by teammate Hatan Bahbri. 
 
Iran and Iraq have secured their last-16 round places as well, after defeating Vietnam (2-0) and Yemen (3-0) in Group D contests earlier in the day.

Saudi Arabia's national soccer team qualified for the 2019 AFC Asian Cup knockout stage, having earned a 2-0 victory over Lebanon in their Group E second-round match at Al Maktoum Stadium in the United Arab Emirates city of Dubai.

Saudi Arabia's national soccer team qualified for the 2019 AFC Asian Cup knockout stage, having earned a 2-0 victory over Lebanon in their Group E second-round match at Al Maktoum Stadium in the United Arab Emirates city of Dubai. Forward Fahad Al Muwallad and midfielder Hussain Almoqahwi scored for Saudi Arabia, leading the three-time AFC champion to the Asian Cup round of 16 for the seventh time in history. Al Muwallad opened the scoring for Saudi Arabia just 12 minutes into the game with a right-footed shot from the right side of the box, sending the ball to the high center of the goal. After the break, Almoqahwi doubled the Saudi lead seven minutes after the hour-mark with a close-range right-footed shot, seizing on a cross by teammate Hatan Bahbri. Iran and Iraq have secured their last-16 round places as well, after defeating Vietnam (2-0) and Yemen (3-0) in Group D contests earlier in the day.

Saudi Arabia defeat Lebanon 2-0, qualify for Asian Cup last-16

Israeli military begins sealing off cross-border tunnels from Lebanon

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/israel-will-escalate-fight-against-iran-in-syria-after-us-exit-netanyahu-185518">Israeli army</a> said Friday it has blown up a cross-border tunnel dug by Hezbollah from Lebanon, the first of four it has uncovered -- and pledged to destroy -- in recent weeks.

"A cross-border attack tunnel dug from the Shiite village of Ramyeh into Israel was detonated" in an operation on Thursday night, the army said in a statement.

The Israeli military "holds the Lebanese Government responsible for digging the attack tunnels and the consequences of this action," it said.

A video distributed by the army shows an officer using a megaphone to call on residents of the Lebanese village of Ramyeh to evacuate the area since the military was about to "blow up this tunnel built by Hezbollah".&nbsp;

Israeli soldiers are also seen inserting rope-like objects into a hole in the ground, while the explosion was documented from a number of angles.

On Thursday night, a military spokesman had said the detonation would be on the Israeli side of the demarcation line with Lebanon, known as the Blue Line.

"We are conducting a defensive activity," Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Conricus told reporters.

In launching an operation to cut off the tunnels on December 4, Israel's military said it located four underground passageways infiltrating Israeli territory.

Israel alleges Hezbollah had planned to use the tunnels to kidnap or kill its civilians or soldiers, and to seize a slice of Israeli territory in the event of any hostilities, while noting they were not yet operational.

A month-long war in 2006 between Israel and Hezbollah killed more than 1,200 Lebanese, mostly civilians, and more than 160 Israelis, mostly soldiers.

The UN confirmed the existence of the four tunnels and its Under Secretary for Peacekeeping Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix has called them "a serious violation of Resolution 1701", which ended the 2006 war.

The Israeli army said Friday it has blown up a cross-border tunnel dug by Hezbollah from Lebanon, the first of four it has uncovered -- and pledged to destroy -- in recent weeks.

The Israeli army said Friday it has blown up a cross-border tunnel dug by Hezbollah from Lebanon, the first of four it has uncovered -- and pledged to destroy -- in recent weeks. "A cross-border attack tunnel dug from the Shiite village of Ramyeh into Israel was detonated" in an operation on Thursday night, the army said in a statement. The Israeli military "holds the Lebanese Government responsible for digging the attack tunnels and the consequences of this action," it said. A video distributed by the army shows an officer using a megaphone to call on residents of the Lebanese village of Ramyeh to evacuate the area since the military was about to "blow up this tunnel built by Hezbollah". Israeli soldiers are also seen inserting rope-like objects into a hole in the ground, while the explosion was documented from a number of angles. On Thursday night, a military spokesman had said the detonation would be on the Israeli side of the demarcation line with Lebanon, known as the Blue Line. "We are conducting a defensive activity," Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Conricus told reporters. In launching an operation to cut off the tunnels on December 4, Israel's military said it located four underground passageways infiltrating Israeli territory. Israel alleges Hezbollah had planned to use the tunnels to kidnap or kill its civilians or soldiers, and to seize a slice of Israeli territory in the event of any hostilities, while noting they were not yet operational. A month-long war in 2006 between Israel and Hezbollah killed more than 1,200 Lebanese, mostly civilians, and more than 160 Israelis, mostly soldiers. The UN confirmed the existence of the four tunnels and its Under Secretary for Peacekeeping Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix has called them "a serious violation of Resolution 1701", which ended the 2006 war.

Israeli army says destroys Hezbollah tunnel from Lebanon

Israel <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/israel-launches-operation-to-cut-off-hezbollah-infiltration-tunnels-181368">is prepared to take action in Lebanon against Hezbollah cross-border tunnels</a> if necessary, an Israeli cabinet minister said on Friday.

Israel's military said earlier this week that it had found a number of passages dug across the Israel-Lebanon border to be used in carrying out attacks inside Israel. The Israeli military sent mechanical diggers, troops and anti-tunneling equipment to the border to shut them down.

The Israeli military, which launched the operation on Tuesday, has said its activity would, for now, stop on the Israeli side of the border.

But Israeli news media on Thursday quoted a unnamed senior official saying that Israel could extend its activity into Lebanon, and on Friday Israeli Intelligence Minister Israel Katz reiterated that messages.

"If we think that in order to thwart the tunnels that one needs to operate on the other side - then we will operate on the other side of the border," Katz told Radio Tel Aviv 102FM.

What form the action would take was not clear. Over the past year, at least 15 tunnels from the Gaza Strip into Israel were found and destroyed, the Israeli military said.

The United Nations peacekeeping Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), confirmed the existence of a tunnel near the "blue line" frontier between the two countries on Thursday, describing it as a "serious occurrence".

In the aftermath of the Israeli tunnel announcement, the situation has remained calm on both sides of the border. But the Israeli operation has brought renewed attention to a frontier across which Israel and Hezbollah last fought a war in 2006.

The Israeli military said in a statement on Thursday that it "holds the Lebanese government, the Lebanese Armed Forces and United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon responsible for all events transpiring in and emanating from Lebanon."

It added that an Israeli military commander had shown one of the tunnels to the head of UNIFIL, Major-General Stefano Del Col, and it urged UNIFIL and the the Lebanese army to clear the area of tunnels.

UNIFIL said in its statement it was "engaged with the parties to pursue urgent follow-up action".

Lebanese Foreign Minister Gebran Bassil has instructed the country's envoy to the U.N. to complain that Israel is waging "a diplomatic and political campaign against Lebanon in preparation for attacks against it", Hezbollah's l-Manar TV said.

Since the 2006 war, Israel has largely refrained from striking at Hezbollah on Lebanese soil, but it has carried out dozens of attacks in Syria against what it said were advanced weapons shipments to the Iranian-backed Shi'ite group.

Israel is prepared to take action in Lebanon against Hezbollah cross-border tunnels if necessary, an Israeli cabinet minister said on Friday. Israel's military said earlier this week that it had found a number of passages dug across the Israel-Lebanon border to be used in carrying out attacks inside Israel.

Israel is prepared to take action in Lebanon against Hezbollah cross-border tunnels if necessary, an Israeli cabinet minister said on Friday. Israel's military said earlier this week that it had found a number of passages dug across the Israel-Lebanon border to be used in carrying out attacks inside Israel. The Israeli military sent mechanical diggers, troops and anti-tunneling equipment to the border to shut them down. The Israeli military, which launched the operation on Tuesday, has said its activity would, for now, stop on the Israeli side of the border. But Israeli news media on Thursday quoted a unnamed senior official saying that Israel could extend its activity into Lebanon, and on Friday Israeli Intelligence Minister Israel Katz reiterated that messages. "If we think that in order to thwart the tunnels that one needs to operate on the other side - then we will operate on the other side of the border," Katz told Radio Tel Aviv 102FM. What form the action would take was not clear. Over the past year, at least 15 tunnels from the Gaza Strip into Israel were found and destroyed, the Israeli military said. The United Nations peacekeeping Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), confirmed the existence of a tunnel near the "blue line" frontier between the two countries on Thursday, describing it as a "serious occurrence". In the aftermath of the Israeli tunnel announcement, the situation has remained calm on both sides of the border. But the Israeli operation has brought renewed attention to a frontier across which Israel and Hezbollah last fought a war in 2006. The Israeli military said in a statement on Thursday that it "holds the Lebanese government, the Lebanese Armed Forces and United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon responsible for all events transpiring in and emanating from Lebanon." It added that an Israeli military commander had shown one of the tunnels to the head of UNIFIL, Major-General Stefano Del Col, and it urged UNIFIL and the the Lebanese army to clear the area of tunnels. UNIFIL said in its statement it was "engaged with the parties to pursue urgent follow-up action". Lebanese Foreign Minister Gebran Bassil has instructed the country's envoy to the U.N. to complain that Israel is waging "a diplomatic and political campaign against Lebanon in preparation for attacks against it", Hezbollah's l-Manar TV said. Since the 2006 war, Israel has largely refrained from striking at Hezbollah on Lebanese soil, but it has carried out dozens of attacks in Syria against what it said were advanced weapons shipments to the Iranian-backed Shi'ite group.

Israel may expand anti-tunnel operation into Lebanon: Cabinet minister

Israeli soldiers at the Lebanese border opened fire at suspected Hezbollah activists on Saturday, the military said, the first such incident since Israel launched <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/israel-may-expand-anti-tunnel-operation-into-lebanon-cabinet-minister-182461">a crackdown this week on cross-border tunnels into its territory</a>.

Lebanon said Israeli soldiers had fired in the air when they were surprised by a Lebanese army patrol on the Lebanese side.

There were no immediate reports of casualties.

Israel said three people who were "apparently Hezbollah activists" approached its forces on the Israeli side as they carried out an operation to shut down tunnels that Israel has said were dug across the border by the Lebanese group.

"Troops fired towards the suspects in accordance with the standard operating procedures. The three fled. The work in the area continues as usual," the Israeli military said in a statement.

Lebanon's state-run National News Agency said the Israeli soldiers shot into the air when they saw a Lebanese army patrol near the border demarcation, known as the "Blue Line".

"Israeli enemy soldiers shot into the air following their deployment near the Blue Line in Kroum al-Sharaqi region to the east of Meis al-Jabal village," NNA said.

The Israelis "were surprised, due to thick fog, by a routine Lebanese army patrol inside the Lebanese territories", it added.

Israel's military said on Tuesday it had found a number of passages dug across the Israel-Lebanon border to be used for carrying out attacks inside Israel. It sent mechanical diggers, troops and anti-tunneling equipment there to shut them down.

The situation has so far remained calm on both sides of the border. But the Israeli operation has brought renewed attention to a frontier across which Israel and Hezbollah fought a war in 2006.

The Israeli military has said its activity would, for now, stop on the Israeli side of the border. But an Israeli cabinet minister said on Friday that Israel was prepared to take action in Lebanon against cross-border tunnels if deemed necessary.

The United Nations peacekeeping Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), confirmed the existence of a tunnel near the "Blue Line" on Thursday, describing it as a "serious occurrence".

Israeli soldiers at the Lebanese border opened fire at suspected Hezbollah activists on Saturday, the military said, the first such incident since Israel launched a crackdown this week on cross-border tunnels into its territory.

Israeli soldiers at the Lebanese border opened fire at suspected Hezbollah activists on Saturday, the military said, the first such incident since Israel launched a crackdown this week on cross-border tunnels into its territory. Lebanon said Israeli soldiers had fired in the air when they were surprised by a Lebanese army patrol on the Lebanese side. There were no immediate reports of casualties. Israel said three people who were "apparently Hezbollah activists" approached its forces on the Israeli side as they carried out an operation to shut down tunnels that Israel has said were dug across the border by the Lebanese group. "Troops fired towards the suspects in accordance with the standard operating procedures. The three fled. The work in the area continues as usual," the Israeli military said in a statement. Lebanon's state-run National News Agency said the Israeli soldiers shot into the air when they saw a Lebanese army patrol near the border demarcation, known as the "Blue Line". "Israeli enemy soldiers shot into the air following their deployment near the Blue Line in Kroum al-Sharaqi region to the east of Meis al-Jabal village," NNA said. The Israelis "were surprised, due to thick fog, by a routine Lebanese army patrol inside the Lebanese territories", it added. Israel's military said on Tuesday it had found a number of passages dug across the Israel-Lebanon border to be used for carrying out attacks inside Israel. It sent mechanical diggers, troops and anti-tunneling equipment there to shut them down. The situation has so far remained calm on both sides of the border. But the Israeli operation has brought renewed attention to a frontier across which Israel and Hezbollah fought a war in 2006. The Israeli military has said its activity would, for now, stop on the Israeli side of the border. But an Israeli cabinet minister said on Friday that Israel was prepared to take action in Lebanon against cross-border tunnels if deemed necessary. The United Nations peacekeeping Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), confirmed the existence of a tunnel near the "Blue Line" on Thursday, describing it as a "serious occurrence".

Israeli military says it fired at Hezbollah activists, Lebanon says it was army patrol

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/imran-khan-acknowledges-2611-attacks-originated-from-pakistani-soil-182435">Imran Khan acknowledges 26/11 attacks originated from Pakistani soil</a>

Pakistan wants "something done about the bombers of Mumbai", Prime Minister Imran Khan has said while tacitly acknowledging that the attack of November 2008 originated from Pakistani soil.

Khan, who has spoken about Pakistan taking two steps for peace for every step taken by India, said his government wants to prosecute those involved in the "act of terror" as it is in Islamabad's interest to resolve the matter.

The Pakistan prime minister said he has asked for the status of the case which is being heard in an anti-terrorism court in Pakistan.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/paris-on-lockdown-as-yellow-vest-protests-hit-again-182474">Paris on lockdown as 'Yellow Vest' protests hit French capital again</a>

Police fired tear gas and arrested hundreds of people in Paris on Saturday as the French capital went on lockdown for the latest "yellow vest" protests against President Emmanuel Macron.

Shouts of "Macron, resign" mingled with the tear gas near the famous Champs-Elysees avenue, the scene last Saturday of the worst rioting in Paris for decades.&nbsp;

A forklift truck driver who gave his name as Denis said he was planning, like others, to march on Macron's presidential palace in anger against a leader who they say only looks out for the rich.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/israel-may-expand-anti-tunnel-operation-into-lebanon-cabinet-minister-182461">Israel may expand </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/israel-may-expand-anti-tunnel-operation-into-lebanon-cabinet-minister-182461">anti-tunnel</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/israel-may-expand-anti-tunnel-operation-into-lebanon-cabinet-minister-182461"> operation into Lebanon: Cabinet minister</a>

Israel is prepared to take action in Lebanon against Hezbollah cross-border tunnels if necessary, an Israeli cabinet minister said on Friday.

Israel's military said earlier this week that it had found a number of passages dug across the Israel-Lebanon border to be used in carrying out attacks inside Israel. The Israeli military sent mechanical diggers, troops and anti-tunneling equipment to the border to shut them down.

The Israeli military, which launched the operation on Tuesday, has said its activity would, for now, stop on the Israeli side of the border.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-1st-test-day-3-india-take-stranglehold-adelaide-test-182414">IND vs AUS, 1st Test, Day 3: India take </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-1st-test-day-3-india-take-stranglehold-adelaide-test-182414">stranglehold</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-1st-test-day-3-india-take-stranglehold-adelaide-test-182414"> in Adelaide Test</a>

India have assumed a commanding position in the first Test against Australia.&nbsp;

They were, at the end of day three, at 151 for three in their second innings against Australia in Adelaide, and now lead by 166 runs.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hillary-clinton-lands-in-udaipur-for-isha-ambanis-pre-wedding-celebrations-182452">Hillary Clinton &nbsp;lands in Udaipur for Isha Ambani's pre-wedding celebrations</a>

Hillary Clinton, and just about everybody else, landed in Udaipur Saturday for the pre-wedding celebrations of Isha Ambani and Anand Piramal. Isha is Mukesh and Nita Ambani's daughter.&nbsp;

The couple will tie the knot in Mumbai on December 12, but the pre-wedding celebrations are being held in Udaipur.&nbsp;

Imran Khan acknowledges 26/11 attacks originated from Pakistani soil Pakistan wants "something done about the bombers of Mumbai", Prime Minister Imran Khan has said while tacitly acknowledging that the attack of November 2008 originated from Pakistani soil.

Imran Khan acknowledges 26/11 attacks originated from Pakistani soil Pakistan wants "something done about the bombers of Mumbai", Prime Minister Imran Khan has said while tacitly acknowledging that the attack of November 2008 originated from Pakistani soil. Khan, who has spoken about Pakistan taking two steps for peace for every step taken by India, said his government wants to prosecute those involved in the "act of terror" as it is in Islamabad's interest to resolve the matter. The Pakistan prime minister said he has asked for the status of the case which is being heard in an anti-terrorism court in Pakistan. Paris on lockdown as 'Yellow Vest' protests hit French capital again Police fired tear gas and arrested hundreds of people in Paris on Saturday as the French capital went on lockdown for the latest "yellow vest" protests against President Emmanuel Macron. Shouts of "Macron, resign" mingled with the tear gas near the famous Champs-Elysees avenue, the scene last Saturday of the worst rioting in Paris for decades. A forklift truck driver who gave his name as Denis said he was planning, like others, to march on Macron's presidential palace in anger against a leader who they say only looks out for the rich. Israel may expand anti-tunnel operation into Lebanon: Cabinet minister Israel is prepared to take action in Lebanon against Hezbollah cross-border tunnels if necessary, an Israeli cabinet minister said on Friday. Israel's military said earlier this week that it had found a number of passages dug across the Israel-Lebanon border to be used in carrying out attacks inside Israel. The Israeli military sent mechanical diggers, troops and anti-tunneling equipment to the border to shut them down. The Israeli military, which launched the operation on Tuesday, has said its activity would, for now, stop on the Israeli side of the border. IND vs AUS, 1st Test, Day 3: India take stranglehold in Adelaide Test India have assumed a commanding position in the first Test against Australia. They were, at the end of day three, at 151 for three in their second innings against Australia in Adelaide, and now lead by 166 runs. Hillary Clinton lands in Udaipur for Isha Ambani's pre-wedding celebrations Hillary Clinton, and just about everybody else, landed in Udaipur Saturday for the pre-wedding celebrations of Isha Ambani and Anand Piramal. Isha is Mukesh and Nita Ambani's daughter. The couple will tie the knot in Mumbai on December 12, but the pre-wedding celebrations are being held in Udaipur.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The story of Golan Heights- WION ground report

Wion travels to Southern Lebanon

WION in Lebanon: Ground report from village Cheeba

WION In Lebanon: Indian peacekeeping forces in Lebanon

The Indian Army has been serving as peacekeepers under United Nations interim force in Lebanon for decades in the conflict-affected area of Golan Heights and historically important Cheeba village.&nbsp;

The Indian troops and their presence in the village is one of the reasons villagers feel secure and consider Indian forces as their own.

Aiming to promote Gandhi's principle of non-violence among the youths of war-ravaged Lebanon, the Indian contingent of the United Nations interim force, with the help of local municipality in Lebanon, has built a park in his memory.

Samih Al Bekai is the mayor of Ebel es saqi. He has been a teacher for 40 years and used to teach his students about Mahatma Gandhi. Moved by the&nbsp;unwavering cooperation of Indian men in blue helmets, he offered the land for Mahatma Gandhi park.&nbsp;

He said, now he is experiencing the teachings of Gandhi after seeing the Indian peacekeepers risking their lives to sustain peace in the conflicted area of southern Lebanon.

"India has a very positive impact in Ebel es saqi and the villagers see Indians with great respect. All the Indian battalions have shown the same teachings of Mahatma Gandhi and are spreading his teachings… They are the peacekeepers and are sacrificing their lives to maintain peace for years," he continued.

In Southern Lebanon, due to an unending conflict in the area of Golan Heights, several people lost their lives when Israel attacked and occupied the area near Ebel es saqi, perhaps Mahatma Gandhi's teachings of austerity, peace and non-violence are even more important than before in parts of southern Lebanon.

The park, in Ebel es saqi, is the symbol of friendship between India and Lebanon and their common dream of ever-lasting peace for Lebanon.

The Indian contingent has been celebrating Gandhi Jayanti in South Lebanon for the past few years where a series of programmes are organised to make the locals aware of his teachings.

The message of peace, non-violence and co-existence that Gandhi spread throughout the world has inspired not just India but even those countries which have been the victim of unending battles.

The Indian Army has been serving as peacekeepers under United Nations interim force in Lebanon for decades in the conflict-affected area of Golan Heights and historically important Cheeba village.

The Indian Army has been serving as peacekeepers under United Nations interim force in Lebanon for decades in the conflict-affected area of Golan Heights and historically important Cheeba village. The Indian troops and their presence in the village is one of the reasons villagers feel secure and consider Indian forces as their own. Aiming to promote Gandhi's principle of non-violence among the youths of war-ravaged Lebanon, the Indian contingent of the United Nations interim force, with the help of local municipality in Lebanon, has built a park in his memory. Samih Al Bekai is the mayor of Ebel es saqi. He has been a teacher for 40 years and used to teach his students about Mahatma Gandhi. Moved by the unwavering cooperation of Indian men in blue helmets, he offered the land for Mahatma Gandhi park. He said, now he is experiencing the teachings of Gandhi after seeing the Indian peacekeepers risking their lives to sustain peace in the conflicted area of southern Lebanon. "India has a very positive impact in Ebel es saqi and the villagers see Indians with great respect. All the Indian battalions have shown the same teachings of Mahatma Gandhi and are spreading his teachings… They are the peacekeepers and are sacrificing their lives to maintain peace for years," he continued. In Southern Lebanon, due to an unending conflict in the area of Golan Heights, several people lost their lives when Israel attacked and occupied the area near Ebel es saqi, perhaps Mahatma Gandhi's teachings of austerity, peace and non-violence are even more important than before in parts of southern Lebanon. The park, in Ebel es saqi, is the symbol of friendship between India and Lebanon and their common dream of ever-lasting peace for Lebanon. The Indian contingent has been celebrating Gandhi Jayanti in South Lebanon for the past few years where a series of programmes are organised to make the locals aware of his teachings. The message of peace, non-violence and co-existence that Gandhi spread throughout the world has inspired not just India but even those countries which have been the victim of unending battles.

Gandhi park opens in southern Lebanon, carries forward Gandhian legacy

Lebanon's Iran-backed Hezbollah claimed victory on Monday after elections it said legitimised its military branch, leaving Saudi-backed Prime Minister Saad Hariri as the main loser.

The two main protagonists of the country's first legislative polls in almost a decade did not wait for final results to comment on the implications of a vote which was also marked by low turnout.

Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah called the vote "a great political and moral victory for the resistance option that protects the sovereignty of the country."

The Iran-backed Shiite movement and its allies look set to secure a parliament bloc large enough to thwart attempts for it to disarm, a longstanding demand of its political enemies.

"The make-up of the new legislative chamber represents a guarantee and a great strength to protect this strategic choice and to protect the golden equation -- the army, the people and the resistance," Nasrallah said.

The man who has led calls internally for Hezbollah to lay down its arms is Hariri, whose Sunni-dominated Future Movement -- less dominant since it lost Saudi Arabia's lavish support -- lost a third of its seats.

Hariri told reporters his party had won 21 seats, a drop from the 33 it controlled in the outgoing legislature.

"We were betting on a better result," the premier said.

Swing vote

Results announced late Monday by the interior ministry confirmed the trend, though vote counting had not yet ended in one electoral district.

The number of Hezbollah lawmakers in the 128-seat parliament may not increase from the current 13 but astute pre-electoral tactics have secured it enough allies to withstand challenges on strategic issues.

"Hariri's loss will be the distinguishing mark of these elections, which will have consequences on the battle to form a new government," the pro-Hezbollah Al-Akhbar daily wrote earlier on Monday.

Hezbollah, which was created in the 1980s to fight against Israel and currently battles in Syria alongside regime forces, is listed as a terror organisation by the United States.

The group, whose arsenal outguns the army's, does not derive its dominant status on the Lebanese scene from the ballot box but the new breakdown of parliament is set to increase its political legitimacy.

Lebanon's unique brand of sectarian-driven, power-sharing politics mean rival factions often end up in the same government, as is the case now where Hezbollah is represented in Hariri's cabinet.

The United Nations on Monday urged Lebanese politicians to act responsibly to protect Lebanon's stability.

"We hope that all Lebanese political stakeholders will continue to act responsibly in the days following polling to protect Lebanon's stability, which should include the swift formation of a government," said UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric.

The constitution stipulates that parliament is equally split between Muslims and Christians, whose biggest party, led by President Michel Aoun has been a Hezbollah ally.

"The biggest swing vote will be President Aoun's group, which will move among the other blocs. Hezbollah will benefit from the lack of a broad coalition against it," political analyst Imad Salamey said.

Lawmakers had extended their own mandate three times since 2009, ostensibly over security concerns linked to the war in neighbouring Syria and political divisions that led to long and crippling institutional crises.

One civil society candidate

A higher turnout than the 49.2 percent announced overnight had been expected after the long electoral hiatus but the new pre-printed ballots used Sunday appeared to confuse some voters.

Some voters also said the sometimes absurd web of local alliances that saw some parties work together in one district and compete in others had put them off.

Senior political leaders, including Hariri himself and Interior Minister Nohad Machnouk whose task it was to supervise the vote, admitted that new voting rules tested for the first time had been perplexing for the electorate.

Lebanon has often been a scene where the rivalry between the region's two heavyweights Iran and Saudi Arabia has played out, but their political clients in this election seemed content to maintain the status quo.

In line with the "national pact" dating from independence in 1943, the president must be a Maronite Christian, the prime minister a Sunni Muslim and the parliament speaker a Shiite.

Nabih Berri, who heads the Shiite party Amal and was allied with Hezbollah, looks certain to keep the position of speaker he has held since 1992.

And the Lebanese Forces party of former warlord Samir Geagea were set to score significant gains, with a projected 15 seats.

Despite the disappointing turnout among an electorate, which included around 800,000 people who were too young to vote in the previous general polls, the new electoral law allowed one candidate from a civil society list to break into parliament.

Paula Yacoubian is a prominent journalist who long hosted a show on a television channel owned by Hariri, but has cast herself as an independent.

Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah called the vote 'a great political and moral victory for the resistance option that protects the sovereignty of the country'

Lebanon's Iran-backed Hezbollah claimed victory on Monday after elections it said legitimised its military branch, leaving Saudi-backed Prime Minister Saad Hariri as the main loser. The two main protagonists of the country's first legislative polls in almost a decade did not wait for final results to comment on the implications of a vote which was also marked by low turnout. Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah called the vote "a great political and moral victory for the resistance option that protects the sovereignty of the country." The Iran-backed Shiite movement and its allies look set to secure a parliament bloc large enough to thwart attempts for it to disarm, a longstanding demand of its political enemies. "The make-up of the new legislative chamber represents a guarantee and a great strength to protect this strategic choice and to protect the golden equation -- the army, the people and the resistance," Nasrallah said. The man who has led calls internally for Hezbollah to lay down its arms is Hariri, whose Sunni-dominated Future Movement -- less dominant since it lost Saudi Arabia's lavish support -- lost a third of its seats. Hariri told reporters his party had won 21 seats, a drop from the 33 it controlled in the outgoing legislature. "We were betting on a better result," the premier said. Swing vote Results announced late Monday by the interior ministry confirmed the trend, though vote counting had not yet ended in one electoral district. The number of Hezbollah lawmakers in the 128-seat parliament may not increase from the current 13 but astute pre-electoral tactics have secured it enough allies to withstand challenges on strategic issues. "Hariri's loss will be the distinguishing mark of these elections, which will have consequences on the battle to form a new government," the pro-Hezbollah Al-Akhbar daily wrote earlier on Monday. Hezbollah, which was created in the 1980s to fight against Israel and currently battles in Syria alongside regime forces, is listed as a terror organisation by the United States. The group, whose arsenal outguns the army's, does not derive its dominant status on the Lebanese scene from the ballot box but the new breakdown of parliament is set to increase its political legitimacy. Lebanon's unique brand of sectarian-driven, power-sharing politics mean rival factions often end up in the same government, as is the case now where Hezbollah is represented in Hariri's cabinet. The United Nations on Monday urged Lebanese politicians to act responsibly to protect Lebanon's stability. "We hope that all Lebanese political stakeholders will continue to act responsibly in the days following polling to protect Lebanon's stability, which should include the swift formation of a government," said UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric. The constitution stipulates that parliament is equally split between Muslims and Christians, whose biggest party, led by President Michel Aoun has been a Hezbollah ally. "The biggest swing vote will be President Aoun's group, which will move among the other blocs. Hezbollah will benefit from the lack of a broad coalition against it," political analyst Imad Salamey said. Lawmakers had extended their own mandate three times since 2009, ostensibly over security concerns linked to the war in neighbouring Syria and political divisions that led to long and crippling institutional crises. One civil society candidate A higher turnout than the 49.2 percent announced overnight had been expected after the long electoral hiatus but the new pre-printed ballots used Sunday appeared to confuse some voters. Some voters also said the sometimes absurd web of local alliances that saw some parties work together in one district and compete in others had put them off. Senior political leaders, including Hariri himself and Interior Minister Nohad Machnouk whose task it was to supervise the vote, admitted that new voting rules tested for the first time had been perplexing for the electorate. Lebanon has often been a scene where the rivalry between the region's two heavyweights Iran and Saudi Arabia has played out, but their political clients in this election seemed content to maintain the status quo. In line with the "national pact" dating from independence in 1943, the president must be a Maronite Christian, the prime minister a Sunni Muslim and the parliament speaker a Shiite. Nabih Berri, who heads the Shiite party Amal and was allied with Hezbollah, looks certain to keep the position of speaker he has held since 1992. And the Lebanese Forces party of former warlord Samir Geagea were set to score significant gains, with a projected 15 seats. Despite the disappointing turnout among an electorate, which included around 800,000 people who were too young to vote in the previous general polls, the new electoral law allowed one candidate from a civil society list to break into parliament. Paula Yacoubian is a prominent journalist who long hosted a show on a television channel owned by Hariri, but has cast herself as an independent.

Lebanon's Hezbollah hails 'great victory' after vote

Polling booths opened in Lebanon on Sunday for the country's first parliamentary election in nine years, a period marked by stretches of political paralysis and war in neighbouring Syria.

Voting is scheduled to last from 7 am&nbsp(0400 GMT) until 7 pm&nbsp(1600 GMT), with unofficial results expected to start coming in overnight and a formal tally announced in the coming days.

Whatever the result, a new coalition government including most of the major parties is likely to be formed after the election, analysts have said.

Getting a new government in place quickly would reassure investors of Lebanon's economic stability after donors pledged $11 billion in soft loans for a capital investment programme last month, in return for fiscal and other reforms.

Lebanese are closely watching the performance of Sunni Muslim Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri's Future Movement party and that of the Iran-backed, Shi'ite Hezbollah group and its allies.

Despite some acts of violence and intimidation connected to the election in recent weeks, no major incidents were reported in the immediate run-up to voting.

Lebanese are closely watching the performance of Sunni Muslim Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri's Future Movement party

Polling booths opened in Lebanon on Sunday for the country's first parliamentary election in nine years, a period marked by stretches of political paralysis and war in neighbouring Syria. Voting is scheduled to last from 7 am (0400 GMT) until 7 pm (1600 GMT), with unofficial results expected to start coming in overnight and a formal tally announced in the coming days. Whatever the result, a new coalition government including most of the major parties is likely to be formed after the election, analysts have said. Getting a new government in place quickly would reassure investors of Lebanon's economic stability after donors pledged $11 billion in soft loans for a capital investment programme last month, in return for fiscal and other reforms. Lebanese are closely watching the performance of Sunni Muslim Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri's Future Movement party and that of the Iran-backed, Shi'ite Hezbollah group and its allies. Despite some acts of violence and intimidation connected to the election in recent weeks, no major incidents were reported in the immediate run-up to voting.

Polls open in Lebanon's first general election in nine years

The United Arab Emirates said on Saturday that it will give Lebanon`s armed forces $200 million (162.5 million euros) in aid to help "stabilise" the country.

The foreign ministry said that $100 million would go to the army and $100 million to other state security services in Lebanon, which borders war-torn Syria.

The oil-rich Gulf country said its support was a "continuation of efforts made for the stability and prosperity of (Lebanon`s) people."

The "resilience and strength" of Lebanon`s military and security institutions was a priority given the region`s "delicate circumstances", the statement said.

At a mid-March meeting in Rome, the international community pledged to help strengthen the Lebanese army.

France, in particular, said it would release a credit line of 400 million euros ($492 million).

On Friday, the international community announced it would provide more than $11 billion to modernise Lebanon`s economy and strengthen its stability, threatened by regional crises, particularly the war in neighbouring Syria.

The loans and donations, announced at a conference in Paris aimed at supporting the Lebanese economy, are intended to help finance investment projects over the next five years.

Fears of an economic crisis have hovered over the small Middle Eastern country since the crisis in Syria began more than seven years ago, pushing more than one million refugees to flee across the border into Lebanon.

The foreign ministry said that $100 million would go to the army and $100 million to other state security services in Lebanon, which borders war-torn Syria

The United Arab Emirates said on Saturday that it will give Lebanon`s armed forces $200 million (162.5 million euros) in aid to help "stabilise" the country. The foreign ministry said that $100 million would go to the army and $100 million to other state security services in Lebanon, which borders war-torn Syria. The oil-rich Gulf country said its support was a "continuation of efforts made for the stability and prosperity of (Lebanon`s) people." The "resilience and strength" of Lebanon`s military and security institutions was a priority given the region`s "delicate circumstances", the statement said. At a mid-March meeting in Rome, the international community pledged to help strengthen the Lebanese army. France, in particular, said it would release a credit line of 400 million euros ($492 million). On Friday, the international community announced it would provide more than $11 billion to modernise Lebanon`s economy and strengthen its stability, threatened by regional crises, particularly the war in neighbouring Syria. The loans and donations, announced at a conference in Paris aimed at supporting the Lebanese economy, are intended to help finance investment projects over the next five years. Fears of an economic crisis have hovered over the small Middle Eastern country since the crisis in Syria began more than seven years ago, pushing more than one million refugees to flee across the border into Lebanon.

UAE pledges $200 million to support Lebanon armed forces

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