Lebanon

A Lebanese military judge on March 17 appealed a verdict by the military tribunal that ordered the release of a Lebanese-American held since September on charges of working for an Israeli-backed militia two decades ago, state-run National News Agency said.

Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias was expected in Lebanon on Wednesday for talks with the country's political leaders in Beirut.
He will first be received by President Michel Aoun, before meeting with the President of the Lebanese parliament Nabih Berri.

Lebanon's new government won a vote of confidence from parliament on Feb. 11 as protesters trying to block the session clashed with security forces, leaving hundreds injured.

Hundreds of demonstrators protested on Feb. 8 in front of the Parliament building here against the Hassan Diab government and a vote of confidence to prevent a new government.

The vote is expected on Feb. 11. 

Lebanon regained its right to vote at the UN General Assembly after paying its contributions to the international organization.

The Lebanese were in the list with the Central African Republic, Gambia, Lesotho, Tonga, Venezuela and Yemen as countries that do not pay the required contributions by UN rules and are not allowed to vote.

Seven people were detained in Istanbul over aiding ex-Nisan CEO Carlos Ghosn's escape from Japan to Lebanon, according to security sources on Jan. 2.

Dozens of protestors were injured in Lebanon's capital on Dec. 20 as security forces fired tear gas to disperse anti-government demonstrators.

Injuries occurred as protestors clashed with security forces trying to open blocked roads to traffic in the Corniche el Mazraa area of Beirut.

Former Secretary-General of Lebanon's Shia Hezbollah movement criticized Iran's supreme leader on Nov. 10 for being behind corruption in Lebanon and Iraq, where anti-government and corruption protests are ongoing.

Lebanon's president said on Oct. 31 he is seeking to transform the country from a sectarian state to a civil state.

Lebanese President Michel Aoun on Oct. 30 asked Prime Minister Saad Hariri to continue as a caretaker premier, until a new government is formed.