Press Digest for Tuesday September 30, 2014

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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.

Speaker Berri says Lebanese army is Lebanon's "source of pride"-sources

Sources quoted Speaker Nabih Berri as saying on Tuesday that he rejects any offenses made against the Lebanese army, adding that the officers and soldiers of the Lebanese Armed Forces are "a source of pride for the country."

The same sources told An-Nahar newspaper that Berri supports the obligatory military service and the calling up of reserve conscripts when need be.

According to the daily, Berri also hailed the achievements of the Lebanese army in addressing terrorism across the country and mainly in the border town of Arsal.

Interior Minister Machnouq says contacts are ongoing to solve the file of the Arsal kidnapped troops

Minister of Interior Nohad Machnouq told An-Nahar newspaper on Tuesday that contacts are ongoing to solve the file of the kidnapped Lebanese soldiers in the border town of Arsal.

Machnouq also voiced hopes that the families of the soldiers would open up blocked roads, asserting that the Lebanese government is deploying its utmost efforts to ensure the return of the troops.

On another note, Machnouq told the daily that the cabinet will discuss during Thursday's session the relocation of Syrian refugees out of the town of Arsal.

General Security Chief Ibrahim says file of the abducted troops is "on the right track"

General Security Chief Abbas Ibrahim told As-Safir newspaper on Tuesday that Lebanese authorities will contact all sides that could help in releasing the kidnapped Lebanese troops in the border town of Arsal.

He also ruled out any possible visit to Turkey and Qatar, adding that the file is "on the right track."

Ibrahim concluded by asserting that progress is being made in this regard, refusing to give further details.

Mufti Malek al-Shaar says LAF will remain the sole protector of Tripoli's residents

Mufti of Tripoli and the North Sheikh Malek al-Shaar told Al-Seyassah newspaper on Tuesday that Tripoli "is safe and full of life," adding that the Lebanese army will remain the sole protector of Tripoli's residents.

Mufti al-Shaar added that the security situation in the northern city is "stable," downplaying media reports stating that the security situation in the city is "alarming."

On another note, he concluded by reiterating his full confidence in the Lebanese government and the Lebanese army's Command in ensuring the return of the kidnapped Lebanese troops who were abducted in the border town of Arsal.