The following are summaries of today's major stories published in the Arabic press. LBCI does not edit press digest articles for content, giving English-language readers insight into the various views expressed in newspapers across the Arab world.
Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati said on Monday that the caretaker government should fulfill its duties within a short period of time, noting that the situation is no longer acceptable.
Mikati told
As-Safir daily that he is adamant on holding cabinet sessions, pointing out that "there are no legal or constitutional obstacles preventing him from exercising his full authority".
"There are many urgent issues that concern the Lebanese state and the people," Mikati said, adding that "the cabinet should take appropriate decisions regarding urgent files, pending the formation of a new government".
March 14 independent MP Boutros Harb said it is normal to prioritize the presidential elections' issue, noting that "the stances of President Michel Sleiman constitute the general principles that he should honor".
MP Harb told
Al-Joumhouria daily on Monday "he aspires to the election of a new president and to avoid political vacuum," adding that the political parties should be ready to work for the country's interests, regardless of their personal interests.
"There are undoubtedly great concerns over a potential vacuum, he said, noting that political void will take place if the current Lebanese situation remains the same".
Speaker Berri said on Monday he will meet with caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati to discuss the latest developments, pointing that they will tackle the possibility of holding a cabinet session.
In an interview with
As-Safir newspaper, Berri expressed his support to holding a cabinet session should it focus on the urgent oil file that cannot be delayed.
He also said the security file became an urgent issue that requires a thorough follow-up in order to contain the widespread tension and promote stability, especially in the northern city of Tripoli.
Separately, Berri reiterated that "the 9-9-6 cabinet formula falls in the March 14 coalition's interest," adding however “it is enough that the Prime Minister-Designate Tammam Salam sympathizes with them, which should prompt them to take part in the formation of a new government".
Saudi Ambassador to Lebanon Ali Awad Asiri praised the "national and rational stances" of President Michel Sleiman regarding media campaigns launched by some parties against the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
"President Sleiman is adamant on upholding Lebanon's historic relations with Arab countries and Saudi Arabia," Asiri told Al-Hayat daily on Monday.
The Ambassador reiterated that Riyadh's ties with Beirut stem from the brotherly relations between the two countries' peoples.
"The Kingdom is also keen on Lebanon's stability and security," he added.