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.
European Union ambassador to Lebanon, Angelina Eichhorst stressed that her role is to make sure that the European leaders do not forget Lebanon, noting that with all the challenges witnessed by the region, Lebanon may no longer be a priority.
In a statement to
an-Nahar daily, Eichhorst said that a state without a president does not send reassuring messages to the International Community, especially during the current stage, noting that the only way to fight extremism is to establish strong institutions that reveal the unity of the Lebanese factions.
Eichhorst added that immediate military action is required to destroy the Islamic State organization, while taking into consideration local and regional circumstances, stressing that the European Union is determined to fulfill its duties in restoring long-term peace and stability in the region.
Member of the Future bloc MP Ahmad Fatfat stressed that his bloc’s position regarding the parliamentary legislative session has not yet changed, adding that they support the legislation of urgent matters, such as the pay scale, a new electoral law, the budget, the Eurobonds and other financial issues.
In a statement to
al-Joumhouria daily, the MP denied any deal made under the table concerning the extension of the Parliament’s mandate, pointing out that his bloc had clearly declared that it supports the extension in case the deputies fail to elect a new president.
“We act with conscience to avoid constitutional vacuum and we do not lie to the people, but we tell them that any parliamentary election held amid the absence of a president is very dangerous,” he stated.
Ministerial sources told
al-Akhbar newspaper that Arsal will witness a new round of clashes, due to the tension prevailing over the region.
The same sources stressed that the negotiation with the kidnappers of Lebanese troops is ongoing without any procrastination.
Lebanese Armed Forces Commander General Jean Kahwagi said that the US authorities hastened the delivery of the military assistance to the Lebanese army, denying reports stating that the army ran out of ammunition during its fight against terrorists in the northeastern town of Arsal.
In a statement to
as-Safir daily, Kahwagi stressed that the army had enough ammunition to lead a long and fierce battle, pointing out that additional aid will arrive from the US and France.
On another note, General Kahwagi stated that the Lebanese army has prevented fuel tanks and aid trucks from crossing into the outskirts of Arsal, so that the gunmen would not take the advantage.