Charbel: Army investigating information on Al-Qaeda in Lebanon

Interior Minister Marwan Charbel told Voice of Lebanon that the Lebanese army command is investigating information on the presence of Al-Qaeda members in Lebanon.

"We should take into account Interior Minister Fayez Ghosn statement that members of Al-Qaeda are operating in Arsal town.

We should not ignore this issue and we must put it as a first priority in the next cabinet session," the minister said. He added that the army will conduct an investigation into the information revealed by the Defense Minister and tomorrow Ghosn will inform the cabinet about his findings.

Charbel ruled out any possible showdown between the army and the residents of Arsal, assuring that there is continuous coordination with the residents of all villages along the Syrian border.

He also confirmed that President of the Republic Michel Sleiman intends to hold more deliberations with all concerned political parties to prepare for a national dialogue.

Charbel suggested that the Interior Ministry may consider extending the fine exemptions for car mechanics for another one month due to the congestions in the inspection center.