Introduction to the evening news 06 12 2011

3^min

Because the big decision to fund the STL in a bid to save the government is still valid the Change and Reform bloc ministers’ boycott of tomorrow’s meeting can be ruled out. General Aoun hinted today that he would announce the bloc’s decision to stay in the government after a meeting attended by MP Sleiman Franjieh, Tashnaq party representatives and, most likely, MP Talal Arslan in Rabieh, tomorrow afternoon. We can also rule out the possibility that the session will tackle the two most pressing issues: wage adjustment and appointment of a new Supreme Judicial Council president.

As Beirut awaits the arrival of U.S. envoy Jeffrey Feltman tomorrow at noon, U.S. Ambassador Robert Ford will be en route to Damascus tonight after a six-week hiatus to give in-depth briefings on the situation on the ground and engage in dialogue with different sections of Syrian society on how best to end bloodshed and reach a peaceful political transition, according to the ministry of foreign affairs spokesperson. Also returning to Syria this evening is French Ambassador Eric Chevalier.

Meanwhile, Hezbollah’s Secretery-General Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah made a personal appearance before Ashura crowds for the first time since 2008. His live appearance came only minutes after Israeli warplanes ominously flew over the Beirut skyline. He reiterated his support for the Syrian regime and warned against betting on the power of regional turmoil to disarm Hezbollah. He reminded the throngs of mourners about how entire flotillas were destroyed along Beirut’s coastline.

Yesterday’s military maneuvers in Syria were considered a message that Damascus is prepared to declare a regional war if any foreign power considers a military intervention in the beleaguered state. Israel’s defense minister submitted his response when saying, “we may have witnessed fresh muscle flexing, but it reflects fear and despair more than confidence.” As for the Arab League, it is seeking out consultations with the concerned states to respond to Syria’s message regarding the Arab Protocol. In fact, our correspondent in Cairo revealed that a meeting of the Arab foreign ministers will be held in the next few hours and may result in a negative response to Syria’s suggestions.

Lebanon News

evening

06-12-2011

Lebanon’s State Security hails troops’ efforts in new year security plan

Introduction to the evening news 06-12-2011

Lebanon News

evening

06-12-2011