Introduction to the evening news 30-10-2012

Today was the day of solidarity with independent journalist Fidaa Itani, this journalist who went on a journey to portray the concerns of the Syrian revolution, after the Libyan revolution and the plight of the Iraqi people. This journalist who combined his professionalism with his support of the people’s right to freedom is a “free man” even under house arrest. Itani, who was the first to meet with the Lebanese abductees in Aazaz and reassure their families, has no one to comfort his family and inform them of his return date.        

At the Press Syndicate, colleagues, family and friends held a solidarity gathering for Itani to defend a free press and remind the Syrian rebels that their regions are no longer safer for journalists than the regions controlled by regime troops.       

From Aazaz to the Patriarchal Seat of Bkerke where popular crowds, religious figures and officials greeted Patriarch Cardinal Beshara Rai to congratulate him on his latest appointment as Cardinal. Upon his arrival to Rafik Hariri International Airport, Rai called on March 14 leaders to heed the President’s calls for dialogue, stressing that the current government can only be replaced through understanding and dialogue and not through political void.       

While the government keeps receiving doses of support, calls for its resignation are increasing, the latest being by the Future bloc. The cabinet is due to convene tomorrow at Baabda Palace, for the first time since the meeting it held in the wake of the assassination of Major General Wissam Hassan.           

On another note, nature unleashed its fury with monster storm Sandy which struck the U.S. East coast.     


For the full LBCI News introduction, please click on the video above