Lebanon's cash economy and money laundering have come under increased scrutiny. The banking sector is under intense pressure to comply or face serious consequences.
Ageing structures, war, the port explosion, and severe weather are all factors that contributed to building decay in Lebanon. But there is no plan for alternative housing should a perfect storm hit.
A new draft law designed to help reform banking in Lebanon and address distrust in the sector is full of loopholes—handy for those who might benefit. Meanwhile, the conflicts of interest remain.
When France set up a meeting to boost Lebanon's state military, it seemed so easy and clear. If only. Alas, very few things are easy and clear in Lebanon and the Middle East.
The long-term damage to hundreds of hectares in recent weeks equates to 'environmental genocide' for some. For the people of south Lebanon, it is about much more than just soil and trees.
Non-state actors play an outsized role in the region's conflicts and wars. Hezbollah is a prime example of how these actors have blurred the lines between militancy and national governance.
Whether American military action triggers a rapid collapse of Iran's regime or gradually erodes it over time, all paths lead to one destination: the end of the Islamic Republic
Those who somehow managed to survive starvation, bombs and disease now face a punishing winter in 'shelters' as battered as Palestinian existence itself
If history is any indication, then yes. While much of modern-day America was acquired through conquest, large chunks of the country were also bought from reluctant sellers under pressure.
The economy is a mess and the politics are askew but the Lebanese are once again learning how to celebrate, these days to the tune of Badna Nrou, meaning 'We need to calm down'