Lebanon's parliament speaker warns of sectarian strife after deadly incidents
The Lebanese Parliament speaker and leader of the Amal movement, Nabih Berri, has warned that the recent security-related incidents in the country will lead to instability and the relapse of Lebanon into anarchy and sectarian strife.
Berri made the remark in a televised speech on Monday, while referring to clashes between rival Lebanese groups last week that killed two people in Khaldeh area south of Beirut, and an incident days earlier in the northern village of Kaftoun in which three men were fatally shot.
"I warn irresponsible politicians against continuing with this behavior because it creates a fertile ground for a return to anarchy and awakens the sleeping devils of terrorist cells which are waiting for the opportunity to pounce on Lebanon's security, unity and civil peace," Berri said in his speech.
The Lebanese official warned that political machinations, selfishness and grudges could shove the country to "the edge of existential danger.”
The Khaldeh incident triggered widespread contention among Lebanese politicians, including Berri, that pushed for containing tensions in a peaceful manner.
Lebanon, still reeling from its 1975-90 civil war, has been beset by a financial meltdown and a devastating Beirut port explosion earlier this month.
The August 4 explosion killed over 180 people, wounded thousands and left some 300,000 temporarily homeless. It destroyed Beirut port and a large swathe of the city.
The massive blast has fueled popular anger in a country already struggling with a major economic crisis.
Lebanon's government subsequently stepped down as previous Prime Minister Hassan Diab blamed endemic corruption for the catastrophe.
Lebanon's newly-designated prime minister Mustapha Adib has vowed to swiftly launch a reformist government to address the acute economic and political crisis in the country.
In a televised speech after his nomination, Adib said on Monday there "was no time for words, promises and wishes," pledging instead to enact swift reforms long demanded by the Lebanese people.
There is "a need to form a government in record time and to begin implementing reforms immediately, starting with an agreement with the International Monetary Fund."
Israel kills 5 more paramedics in southern Lebanon: Health ministry
Hezbollah attacks Israeli forces after Lebanese homes blown up
Israel issues new evacuation orders, shortly launches strikes on southern Lebanon
Israel kills 5 more paramedics in southern Lebanon: Health ministry
Iran to launch ‘new, advanced’ centrifuges in response to IAEA resolution: AEOI
Yemen fires hypersonic missile at Israeli airbase
VIDEO | New Delhi chokes under toxic smog as air quality remains at hazardous levels
VIDEO | Press TV's news headlines
VIDEO | ICC's arrest warrant for Netanyahu to worry Western politicians: Former British diplomat
Iranians protest against Israel after Netanyahu ICC warrant
Germany undecided on complying with ICC arrest warrants for Israeli war criminals
PressTV NEWSLETTER
now
This makes it easy to access the Press TV website
