Israeli military operations continue in Gaza, with ongoing raids at al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is expected to visit Israel amid rising US-Israel tensions over Prime Minister Netanyahu's plans to invade Rafah. Tensions escalate in the Middle East as Israeli troops target the Gaza-Egypt border crossing, risking the 1979 peace treaty, while diplomatic efforts are underway to prevent war between Israel and Lebanon.

Israeli airstrikes in Syria have resulted in the deaths of dozens, including Syrian soldiers, Hezbollah members, and civilians. The strikes near Aleppo mark a significant escalation in Israel's military campaign against Iranian-backed forces. Hezbollah confirmed the deaths of seven members, while Syrian state media reported casualties among civilians and soldiers. The Israeli military did not comment on the strikes. The conflict has intensified since the war in Gaza began, with frequent exchanges of fire between Israel and Hezbollah along the Lebanese border. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant indicated a shift towards more aggressive military operations against Hezbollah.

Israel conducted airstrikes in Syria, killing dozens of Syrian soldiers, Hezbollah members, and civilians. The strikes near Aleppo represent a significant escalation in Israel's campaign against Iranian-backed forces. Hezbollah confirmed the deaths of seven members, while Syrian state media reported casualties among civilians and soldiers. The attacks are part of ongoing hostilities since the war in Gaza began, with increased violence along the Lebanese border. Israel also targeted Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, killing a senior member. Israeli officials signal a shift to more aggressive military actions against Hezbollah.

Israel conducted airstrikes in Syria, killing dozens of Syrian soldiers, Hezbollah members, and civilians near Aleppo. This marks a significant escalation in Israel's military campaign against Iranian-backed forces since the Gaza war began. Hezbollah confirmed the deaths of seven members, while Syrian state news agency SANA reported casualties among civilians and soldiers. The strikes are part of ongoing hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, with recent escalations along the Lebanese border. Israeli officials signaled a shift to more aggressive military actions against Hezbollah, targeting locations in Lebanon and Syria.

The article details the experiences of people fleeing conflict in southern Lebanon, particularly focusing on Mohammed Fattouh and his daughter Jana, who have sought refuge in Tyre. The conflict, which has escalated since the Hamas incursion into Israel on October 7, has led to significant displacement, with nearly 4,000 people reaching Tyre. The article highlights the humanitarian challenges faced by the displaced, including the use of white phosphorus by Israeli forces and the efforts of the Tyre Crisis Management Unit to provide shelter and necessities. The narrative underscores the uncertainty and fear experienced by those affected, as well as the broader regional implications of the conflict.

Mohammed Fattouh and his daughter fled their home in southern Lebanon due to escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. They joined nearly 4,000 displaced people in Tyre, where the Crisis Management Unit is providing shelter. The conflict, intensified by the Hamas incursion into Israel, has led to significant displacement and fear among residents. Human Rights Watch identified the use of white phosphorus in the region, raising legal concerns. The situation remains uncertain, with more displaced people expected and urgent needs for food and shelter.

The water crisis in Damascus has exacerbated frustrations among residents, highlighting the Syrian government's fragile control over essential resources amid the ongoing civil war. Repairs on the damaged water facility have been hindered by renewed government shelling, leaving millions without access to clean water. The crisis has led to increased health issues and forced residents to find alternative water sources. The International Committee of the Red Cross is aiding in water distribution, but dissatisfaction with the government's inability to provide basic services is growing. Control over natural resources remains crucial for the government's efforts to rebuild and achieve economic independence.

Lebanese authorities have begun deporting Syrian refugees, including Abu Hussein, who is wanted by the Syrian government for his media work during the 2011 protests. Human rights groups, including Amnesty International, have documented cases of detainees facing persecution upon their return. The deportations coincide with Arab states normalizing relations with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and the Arab League reinstating Syria's membership. The UNHCR has observed an increase in raids on Syrian communities in Lebanon and advocates for the protection of refugees from refoulement. Former head of Lebanon's General Security, Abbas Ibrahim, suggests the deportations are a plea for Western assistance to help Lebanon manage the refugee situation.

Lebanese authorities have begun deporting Syrian refugees back to Syria, where they face potential detention and persecution. Human rights groups, including Amnesty International, have condemned these actions as unlawful and dangerous. The deportations coincide with a broader regional move to normalize relations with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Refugees like Abu Hussein recount harrowing experiences of being misled, detained, and mistreated by Lebanese forces. The United Nations and other organizations are advocating for the protection of refugees and adherence to international law, while Lebanese officials argue that Western countries need to provide more support.

In the northern Lebanese provinces of Tripoli and Akkar, residents are enduring extreme poverty, prompting many to risk dangerous sea journeys to Europe. Dua Abdel Nour and her husband, Zein al-Deen Hamad, survived 36 hours at sea after their smuggler's boat sank, resulting in the loss of their unborn child. The World Bank has categorized Lebanon's economic situation as one of the worst since the mid-19th century, with the local currency losing over 96 percent of its value since 2019. The absence of government services has led to a reliance on local politicians for basic needs. Wissam al-Talawi, who lost his wife and two children during the same ill-fated journey, represents the desperation of many who seek a better life for their families.

Lebanon’s top intelligence official, Maj. Gen. Abbas Ibrahim, has committed to continuing efforts to secure the release of six Americans missing in Syria, despite no evidence of progress from the Trump administration's outreach to President Bashar al-Assad. Ibrahim's visit to Washington, invited by the White House, was marked by controversy.

For nearly seven years, 2,750 tons of ammonium nitrate were stored in Beirut's port, leading to a catastrophic explosion that killed at least 135 people and injured 4,000. The article highlights the negligence and corruption that allowed the material to remain in the port despite repeated warnings. Hezbollah's influence over the port and its interest in ammonium nitrate for terrorist activities are scrutinized. The U.S. Treasury Department had previously imposed sanctions on Hezbollah officials for smuggling activities through the port. The article includes expert commentary on the explosion and the broader implications of corruption and mismanagement in Lebanon.

An American journalist, Nicholas Frakes, was detained in Lebanon on suspicion of sending footage of anti-government protests to an Israeli news outlet, a serious crime under Lebanese law. Advocacy groups and friends believe his arrest is a case of mistaken identity. Lebanese authorities detained Frakes after live footage was broadcast on Haaretz's Facebook page, though Haaretz stated the video was sourced from Reuters, which denied Frakes' involvement. Frakes' case has been referred to military intelligence. The Committee to Protect Journalists and The New Arab have called for his release, emphasizing the growing concerns over the safety of journalists covering the increasingly violent protests in Lebanon.

Carlos Ghosn, who fled Japan to Lebanon, faces new legal challenges as Lebanese lawyers filed a complaint against him for visiting Israel, a country Lebanon considers an enemy. This could lead to a prison sentence of up to 15 years. Ghosn's situation is complicated by Lebanon's political dynamics and ongoing financial crisis. Despite an Interpol notice, Lebanese authorities are not compelled to arrest him. Ghosn's powerful allies in Lebanon, including Foreign Minister Gebran Bassil and President Michel Aoun, may influence the outcome. The case highlights Lebanon's complex legal and political landscape.

Hezbollah is experiencing significant financial strain due to the comprehensive sanctions imposed by the Trump administration on Iran, its main benefactor. The sanctions, which aim to curb Iran's nuclear ambitions, have led to a decrease in Iran's ability to finance allies like Hezbollah. This has resulted in cuts to Hezbollah's spending, including furloughs for fighters, reduced social services, and canceled programs on its television station. Despite these challenges, Hezbollah officials claim they are still prepared militarily and are seeking alternative sources of income. The sanctions have also raised concerns about increased instability and hardship in the region.

The Trump administration's sanctions on Iran have significantly reduced Iran's ability to finance its regional allies, including Hezbollah. The Lebanese militia has experienced a sharp decline in revenue, leading to cuts in spending, furloughs for fighters, and reduced social services. Despite these challenges, Hezbollah officials claim they are still receiving arms from Iran and remain militarily prepared. The sanctions have also deterred businesses from engaging with Hezbollah-affiliated companies, exacerbating the group's financial woes. Analysts express concern that the sanctions may destabilize the region further and provoke retaliation from Iran.

The Lebanese Hezbollah militia, heavily funded by Iran, is facing severe financial constraints due to the stringent sanctions imposed by President Donald Trump. These sanctions, aimed at curbing Iran's nuclear ambitions, have significantly reduced Iran's ability to support its regional proxies, including Hezbollah. As a result, Hezbollah has had to implement drastic austerity measures, affecting its fighters, social services, and media operations. The sanctions have also intensified tensions between Washington and Tehran, with potential retaliatory actions from Iran being anticipated.

The Lebanese Hezbollah militia, heavily funded by Iran, is facing severe financial strain due to the sanctions imposed by President Donald Trump. These sanctions, more stringent than those under the Obama administration, have significantly reduced Iran's revenue, impacting its ability to support regional allies like Hezbollah. The militia has had to cut spending, furlough fighters, and reduce social services. The sanctions have also affected Iran's economy, leading to widespread hardship. Analysts suggest that the severity of the sanctions may provoke a strong response from Iran, potentially escalating tensions in the region.

The Trump administration's decision to halt funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) has sparked significant concern among Palestinian refugees in Lebanon. The move, described by US officials as addressing an 'irredeemably flawed' agency, is seen as an attempt to undermine the Palestinian right of return and pressure host countries to resettle refugees. Critics argue that the administration's approach is heavy-handed and risks destabilizing the region, while some Palestinians and analysts believe that UNRWA's existence perpetuates dependency and hinders long-term solutions. The funding cuts have led to increased financial contributions from other countries, but the future of UNRWA and the refugees it supports remains uncertain.

In the Lebanese town of Arsal, Syrian refugees face a difficult choice between staying in increasingly hostile conditions or returning to a war-torn homeland. A convoy organized by Lebanese authorities and Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s security agencies saw 294 refugees return to Syria, highlighting the deteriorating situation in Lebanon and the complex history between the two countries. Refugees grapple with limited rights, forced evictions, and the fear of conscription by the Syrian army. Personal stories reveal the emotional toll and uncertainty faced by families as they decide their future.

Lebanon has undergone significant changes since its last election nine years ago, including the war in neighboring Syria and an influx of over 2 million refugees. The country's political landscape has also shifted, with Hezbollah, a militant group, becoming more prominent in Lebanese politics since 2009.

Marwa's life is upended by the Syrian Civil War, as her husband Omar becomes deeply involved in the anti-regime protests. Despite her fears and the escalating violence, Omar remains committed to the cause, leading to his eventual imprisonment and torture. Marwa, now a refugee in Lebanon with their two sons, struggles with the uncertainty of Omar's fate and the challenges of raising her children alone. The narrative highlights the personal toll of the conflict, the brutality of the Syrian regime, and the enduring hope and love amidst the chaos.

In the aftermath of a suspected chemical weapons attack in Douma, Syria, international inspectors have been blocked from accessing the site, raising suspicions of a coverup by Syrian and Russian authorities. The U.S. and other Western governments allege that evidence is being removed to obstruct the investigation. Witnesses and experts express concerns that crucial evidence is being erased, while local residents report intimidation and pressure to deny the attack. The situation underscores the complexities and challenges of international investigations in conflict zones.

In Douma, Syria, suspicions of a chemical weapons coverup have intensified as international inspectors face delays in accessing the site of a suspected attack. Syrian and Russian military officials are accused of obstructing the investigation and removing evidence. The U.S., France, and Britain launched military action against Syrian chemical weapons sites following the attack, which killed at least 43 people. Witnesses reported a chlorine smell and symptoms consistent with nerve agent exposure. Experts warn that evidence is diminishing daily. Local residents and medical professionals report pressure and intimidation from Syrian authorities to deny the attack.

In Douma, Syria, suspicions of a chemical weapons coverup have intensified as international inspectors face delays in accessing the site of a suspected attack. Syrian and Russian authorities are accused of obstructing the investigation and removing evidence. The U.S., France, and Britain have launched military actions in response to the attack, which killed at least 43 people. Witnesses reported symptoms consistent with nerve agent exposure. Experts warn that the chances of finding conclusive evidence diminish with each passing day. Local residents and medical professionals have faced pressure and intimidation to deny the occurrence of the attack.

A suspected chemical attack in Douma, Syria, resulted in numerous casualties, with victims displaying symptoms consistent with nerve agent exposure. Medical workers reported a strong chlorine smell, but the severity of symptoms suggested a more potent agent. Russia and Syria denied the occurrence of a chemical attack, complicating independent investigations. The Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons plans to investigate, but evidence may be compromised. The attack has raised concerns about the use of new chemical weapons in the ongoing Syrian conflict.

A 2-year-old girl named Wynter Parker was found unresponsive and cold to the touch on her family's front porch in Akron, Ohio, by her mother. The mother had left Wynter with the child's father, who fell asleep, allowing the toddler to wander outside. The child was pronounced dead at Akron Children's Hospital, and the Akron Police Department is investigating the incident. An autopsy is being performed by the Summit County medical examiner's office to determine the cause of death.

A group of 70 Syrian refugees attempting to cross the mountain range between Syria and Lebanon faced a deadly storm, resulting in 15 deaths due to freezing temperatures. The tragedy underscores the ongoing desperation of Syrians fleeing the war, despite closed borders and dangerous smuggling routes. The story follows the Abed family, who fled their village in Deir al-Zour province due to escalating conflict involving the Islamic State. Misled by smugglers, they faced harsh weather conditions, leading to multiple fatalities within the family. The article also highlights the survival of a young girl, Sarah, who was found comatose but later recovered, symbolizing a small glimmer of hope amidst the broader tragedy.

A group of about 70 Syrian refugees attempting to cross a mountain range into Lebanon during a storm became lost and scattered, resulting in 15 deaths from freezing temperatures. The incident highlighted the ongoing desperate attempts of Syrians to flee conflict, despite increasingly restrictive entry policies worldwide. Among the victims was the family of Shihab al-Abed from Deir al-Zour province, who recounted their harrowing journey and the loss of several family members. A 3-year-old girl, Sarah, was found alive but in critical condition, and was later reunited with her father, who had been living in Lebanon.

A group of about 70 Syrian refugees attempting to cross a mountain range into Lebanon were caught in a storm, resulting in 15 deaths from freezing temperatures. The deceased included members of a family from Barghouz, Deir al-Zour, fleeing Islamic State control. Among the dead was a woman found with her child, and a girl named Sarah was discovered alive but with severe frostbite. The survivors recounted their harrowing journey, misled by smugglers about the route's difficulty. The incident highlighted the ongoing plight of Syrians seeking refuge despite closed borders.

A tragic incident occurred when 15 Syrian refugees froze to death while attempting to cross the mountain range between Syria and Lebanon. Among the survivors was a three-year-old girl, Sarah, who was found comatose with severe frostbite. Her father, living in Tripoli, identified her after seeing photos posted by rescuers on Facebook. The article highlights the ongoing desperation of Syrians fleeing the war, the deceptive practices of smugglers, and the harsh conditions faced by refugees. The story underscores the broader humanitarian crisis and the challenges faced by those escaping conflict zones.

A group of about 70 Syrian refugees attempting to flee to Lebanon via a mountain route were caught in a storm, resulting in the deaths of 15 people due to freezing conditions. The tragedy highlights the ongoing desperate efforts of Syrians to escape the war, despite closed borders and dangerous smuggling routes. The article recounts the harrowing experiences of the Abed family and the challenges they faced, including deception by smugglers and severe weather conditions. The story also touches on the broader context of the Syrian refugee crisis and the difficulties faced by those fleeing the conflict.

A tragic incident occurred when a group of 70 Syrian refugees attempted to cross the mountainous border into Lebanon during a snowstorm, resulting in 15 deaths due to freezing temperatures. The article highlights the desperate measures taken by Syrians to escape the ongoing conflict, with neighboring countries and the West closing their doors to refugees. Among the survivors was a young girl found in critical condition, who later showed signs of recovery. The story underscores the severe humanitarian crisis faced by Syrian refugees and the perilous journeys they undertake.

Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, a prominent billionaire investor, was released from custody in Saudi Arabia following a detention exceeding two months as part of an anti-corruption probe. His arrest highlighted the power dynamics and societal changes under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The nature of the accusations and detainee identities remained unclear, with the government preferring financial settlements over criminal charges. Detainees were held at the Ritz-Carlton in Riyadh, which is set to reopen to the public, indicating a phase of the anti-corruption campaign's conclusion. The Saudi government's approach to fighting corruption has been criticized by experts like Karen Young from the Arab Gulf States Institute. Alwaleed, in his first public comments since the arrest, maintained his innocence and suggested a financial agreement was reached, without disclosing details.

Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, detained in Saudi Arabia's anti-corruption probe, was released after over two months. His arrest highlighted power struggles and systemic changes under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The detentions, including other influential figures, aimed to signal zero tolerance for corruption. However, the lack of formal charges and the use of the Ritz-Carlton as a detention center fueled suspicions of a government shakedown. Financial settlements were reportedly sought from detainees, with rumors of the government receiving over $100 billion. Alwaleed, asserting his innocence, hinted at a financial agreement with the government.

Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri intervened to lift a ban on the film 'The Post,' which had been imposed due to director Steven Spielberg's ties to Israel. The decision, which was a rare override of Lebanon's censorship board, was made to support free speech despite opposition from groups like the Campaign to Boycott Supporters of Israel in Lebanon. The Interior Ministry permitted the film's screening, emphasizing its focus on the Vietnam War and lack of connection to Lebanon or Israel. The move was praised by free speech advocates as a significant step for freedom of expression in Lebanon.

Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri intervened to lift a ban on the film 'The Post,' which had been prohibited due to director Steven Spielberg's ties to Israel. The decision, seen as a rare government contradiction of the censorship board, was praised by free speech advocates but criticized by groups opposing Israeli connections. The Interior Ministry's decree allowed the film to be screened, highlighting Lebanon's complex relationship with censorship and freedom of expression.

Lebanon has banned the film 'The Post' due to director Steven Spielberg's ties to Israel, reflecting a broader trend of censorship in the country. The General Security Directorate's decision aligns with the Arab League's boycott of Israel, citing Spielberg's donation to Israel during the 2006 war with Hezbollah. The ban has sparked criticism from free-speech advocates, highlighting the irony of censoring a film that promotes press freedoms. This move is part of a larger pattern of Lebanon enforcing its censorship laws, particularly those related to Israel, amidst a climate of increasing restrictions on free speech since President Michel Aoun's election in 2016.

Lebanese police have arrested Tarek Harb, suspected of killing British Embassy worker Rebecca Dykes in Beirut. Dykes was found dead after leaving a bar, with evidence suggesting she was raped and strangled. Harb, previously jailed on drug charges, was tracked through surveillance footage. The British Embassy and Lebanese authorities are cooperating on the investigation, with Interior Minister Nohad Machnouk praising the swift arrest. Dykes's family and colleagues expressed their devastation and requested privacy.

Lebanese police have arrested Tarek Harb, an Uber driver with a criminal record, for the murder of Rebecca Dykes, a British Embassy worker in Beirut. Dykes was found dead after leaving a bar, with evidence suggesting she was raped and strangled. The British Embassy and her family expressed deep sorrow, while Lebanese authorities were praised for the swift arrest. Dykes was planning to return home for Christmas.

Thousands of Hezbollah supporters rallied in Beirut, incited by leader Hasan Nasrallah, in response to President Trump's decision to recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital. The decision has sparked protests and violence across the Arab world, including rocket attacks from Gaza. European Union leaders have condemned the move, advocating for a two-state solution with Jerusalem as a shared capital. The article highlights the regional tensions and the involvement of various militant groups and political leaders.

Lebanese security forces clashed with demonstrators near the U.S. Embassy in Beirut as hundreds protested against President Donald Trump's decision to recognize Jerusalem as the Israeli capital. The army used water cannons and tear gas against protesters who hurled stones and burned effigies of Trump. Eight people were hospitalized, and 43 treated at the scene. The protest reflects wider regional unrest following the White House's announcement, which has been met with condemnation from various groups including Hezbollah and the Arab League. Turkish President Erdogan criticized Israel, while French President Macron urged Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to negotiate with the Palestinians. Netanyahu maintained that Jerusalem is Israel's capital. The article also touches on the plight of Palestinian refugees in Lebanon.

Lebanese security forces clashed with protesters near the U.S. Embassy in Beirut over President Donald Trump's decision to recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital. The Lebanese army used water cannons and tear gas against demonstrators, resulting in injuries but no fatalities. The decision has sparked widespread protests across the Middle East, with significant criticism from leaders like Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and French President Emmanuel Macron. The Arab League and other organizations have condemned the move, though concrete actions remain limited. The situation underscores ongoing tensions and the complex political landscape surrounding Jerusalem.

Lebanese Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri, in a televised interview from Saudi Arabia, insisted he is free to move and will return to Lebanon soon. Hariri's resignation, announced from Riyadh, has sparked speculation about Saudi Arabia's influence and Iran's role in Lebanon. He criticized Hezbollah and Iran for destabilizing Lebanon and suggested he might withdraw his resignation if Hezbollah remains neutral in regional conflicts. The interview highlighted the complex political dynamics involving Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Lebanon.

Saad Hariri's unexpected resignation as Lebanon's prime minister, announced from Saudi Arabia, has led to widespread speculation about his status and the role of Saudi Arabia in his decision. Hariri's absence has caused anxiety in Lebanon, with many believing he is being held by Saudi authorities. The situation highlights the ongoing regional power struggle between Saudi Arabia and Iran, with Lebanon caught in the middle. Saudi Arabia's recent detentions of prominent figures are seen as part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's efforts to consolidate power. The international community remains uncertain about Hariri's fate and the broader implications for Middle Eastern stability.

Barrick Gold Corp. is undergoing a digital transformation at its Cortez operation in Elko, Nevada, aiming to revolutionize the gold mining industry. Partnering with Cisco Systems Inc., Barrick has established an in-house coding hub named C0dem1ne, introduced autonomous mining equipment, and built a data analytics center. Despite slower progress than anticipated, COO Richard Williams reports cost reductions and anticipates significant efficiency improvements. The company is also investing in AI for exploration and cyanide-free leaching. Barrick's digitization efforts are part of a broader industry trend, with competitors like Newmont Mining Corp. also adopting advanced technologies. The initiative is not expected to result in significant job losses and is part of a long-term strategy to make Barrick a leading 21st-century company.

Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri resigned unexpectedly, citing fears for his life and accusing Iran of destabilizing Lebanon through Hezbollah. His resignation, announced from Riyadh, is expected to heighten tensions in Lebanon and reflects the broader Saudi-Iranian rivalry. The move drew criticism from Iranian officials, who suggested it was orchestrated by Saudi Arabia and the U.S. during a turbulent period in the region.

The Utah Republican Party, facing significant debt due to legal challenges against SB54, a state elections law, has decided to continue its lawsuit without further financial investment. With $423,000 in bills and only $25,000 in the bank, the party's Central Committee voted to allow the lawsuit to proceed as long as no additional funds are spent. The decision comes amid internal divisions and concerns that the ongoing lawsuit is affecting fundraising efforts and supporting the Count My Vote ballot initiative, which seeks to change the state's election process. Party Chairman Rob Anderson and others have faced criticism for their handling of the situation, with some members attempting to censure leadership. The party awaits a ruling from the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals.

Steven Slater, the former JetBlue employee known for his dramatic job exit in 2010, offers advice to the Twitter employee who deactivated President Donald Trump's account. Slater reflects on his own experience, noting the personal struggles he faced and the public reaction to his actions. He advises the Twitter employee to brace for public backlash and not to have regrets. Slater's story resurfaces as people draw parallels between his actions and the Twitter incident, highlighting the impact of social media on public consciousness.

Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri's unexpected resignation, announced from Saudi Arabia, has heightened tensions in the Middle East, particularly between Iran and Saudi Arabia. Hariri cited Iran's influence over Lebanon through Hezbollah as a key reason for his decision, signaling a potential shift in regional power dynamics. The move has raised concerns about stability in Lebanon, a country that has managed to remain relatively stable amid regional turmoil. The resignation has been met with mixed reactions, with Israel viewing it as a call to action against Iranian aggression, while Iran has dismissed Hariri's accusations as baseless. The situation underscores the complex interplay of regional politics, with implications for Lebanon's future governance and stability.

The Lebanese army, backed by the US, launched a major offensive against Islamic State militants in north-eastern Lebanon, coinciding with a separate offensive by Hezbollah and the Syrian army across the border. This operation aims to reassert control over Lebanon's borders and is significant due to the complex political landscape involving US-backed Lebanese forces and Iran-backed Hezbollah. The Lebanese army emphasized no coordination with Hezbollah, despite both targeting Islamic State positions. The US has provided substantial military aid to Lebanon, bolstering its army's capabilities. The battle is crucial for Lebanon's stability and geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East.

Syrian refugees in Lebanon face increasingly harsh conditions as President Donald Trump suspends their resettlement to the United States. Many refugees, who initially thought their displacement would be temporary, now struggle with deteriorating living conditions, debt, and limited resources. Humanitarian organizations like the United Nations, Norwegian Refugee Council, and Action for Hope are working to provide support, but the challenges remain significant. Refugees express a longing to return to Syria, but the ongoing conflict and lack of security make this impossible.