http://news.linktv.org Link TV News Videos (Filtered by topics: Beirut) en-us Sat, 23 Mar 2013 16:20:00 -0700 Copyright 2011 Link Media, Inc. http://news.linktv.org/videos/in-transition-can-lebanon-escape-syrias-shadow?start=0 Lebanese President Michel Sleiman has accepted the resignation of Prime Minister Najib Mikati, who called for a national unity government. One of the major hurdles facing Lebanon is how to handle neighboring Syria's civil war, which shows no signs of peace any time soon. Sat, 23 Mar 2013 16:20:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/in-transition-can-lebanon-escape-syrias-shadow Najib Mikati, Lebanon–Syria relations, Refugees of the Syrian civil war, Politics of Lebanon, Lebanon, Parliament of Lebanon, National unity government, Syria, Beirut, Al Jazeera English Lebanese President Michel Sleiman has accepted the resignation of Prime Minister Najib Mikati, who called for a national unity government. One of the major hurdles facing Lebanon is how to handle neighboring Syria's civil war, which shows no signs of peace any time soon. http://news.linktv.org/videos/russian-civilians-flee-syria-but-official-evacuation-operation-denied?start=0 This was the first organzied effort to get Russian citizens out of Syria since the start of the uprising. Many Russians call Syria home, and there are many Syrians who also have Russian passports. But, despite the use of military aircraft to fly the 77 citizens back from Beirut, the Russian government says this isn't an official evacuation. CNN's Phil Black reports.<br /> Wed, 23 Jan 2013 11:14:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/russian-civilians-flee-syria-but-official-evacuation-operation-denied Syrian Civil War, Russia-Syria relations, Syria, Russian passport, Russia, Government of Russia, Russians, Emergency evacuation, Military aircraft, Beirut This was the first organzied effort to get Russian citizens out of Syria since the start of the uprising. Many Russians call Syria home, and there are many Syrians who also have Russian passports. But, despite the use of military aircraft to fly the 77 citizens back from Beirut, the Russian government says this isn't an official evacuation. CNN's Phil Black reports. http://news.linktv.org/videos/raw-video-israeli-attacks-spark-angry-protests-around-the-world?start=0 Press TV reports that there is worldwide condemnation of the Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip. Demonstrators in several countries, including Turkey, Yemen, South Africa, Lebanon, Libya, and Greece, have taken to the streets in solidarity with the people of Gaza. Fri, 16 Nov 2012 15:27:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/raw-video-israeli-attacks-spark-angry-protests-around-the-world Gaza–Israel conflict, Israeli–Palestinian conflict, Beirut, Istanbul, Taiz, Sanaa, Johannesburg, Tripoli, Protest, Gaza Press TV reports that there is worldwide condemnation of the Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip. Demonstrators in several countries, including Turkey, Yemen, South Africa, Lebanon, Libya, and Greece, have taken to the streets in solidarity with the people of Gaza. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-111612?start=1119 <p>Israel pounds Gaza as Arabs rally in solidarity with Palestinian people, Jordan caught between demands for king's ouster and pleas for reform, European leaders meet to finalize plan for military intervention in Mali, and more.</p> Fri, 16 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-111612 Gaza–Israel conflict, Gaza, Israeli–Palestinian conflict, Israel, Palestinians, Hamas, Israel Defense Forces, Mahmoud Abbas, Friday prayers, Jerusalem Press TV reports that there is worldwide condemnation of the Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip. Demonstrators in several countries, including Turkey, Yemen, South Africa, Lebanon, Libya, and Greece, have taken to the streets in solidarity with the people of Gaza. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-102412?start=588 <p>Israel pounds the Gaza Strip after Qatari leader's visit, Lebanon's March 14 Coalition obstructs president's national dialogue initiative, US assassination drone kills three in Pakistan's North Waziristan, and more.</p> Wed, 24 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-102412 Israel, Syrian Civil War, Iron Dome, Palestinians, Palestinian rocket attacks on Israel, Syria, Iraq, Israeli–Palestinian conflict, Benjamin Netanyahu, Gaza blockade Presenter, Female #1 In Lebanon, political tension receded in favor of the political mobilization, as President Michel Suleiman continues to consult with different factions to hold a national dialogue session. The aim is to agree on the formation of a new government that would take the country out of the current deadlock. Presenter, Female #2 The task is difficult as the March 14 coalition insists on boycotting the parliament and the dialogue until the resignation of the current government. Meanwhile, all other parties agree the government must be changed through dialogue. Eliane Shateri reports from Beirut. Reporter, Female #3 The political tension in Lebanon turned into political mobilization as all eyes are on the presidential palace, where President Michel Suleiman is consulting with the leaderships of both parties of the struggle. He is attempting to find a solution to the current political crisis. Hezbollah confirmed its readiness to Suleiman to solve the crisis through dialogue. As for the Future Movement, it informed the president that no dialogue will be held before the resignation of the current government, and the formation of a neutral government. In between these two stances, the president of the country continues to look for an exit to the crisis under the US' umbrella, after Washington announced its support for Suleiman's attempts to form a new government. Guest, Male #1 (Ibrahim Birm, Writer and Political Analyst at An-Nahar) For a while, since the events in Syria started, we have just been waiting for some clarity on the position in Syria so we can build on it in Lebanon. The crisis and the media confrontations have been ongoing. This new issue only adds an element, or a factor to the political scene that is dire in any case. Reporter, Female #3 The country has effectively entered a phase of what some observers have described as a political strike, since the opposition has set a ceiling for its demands. At the same time, a peaceful mobilization is being carried out by the March 14 forces, such as the open-ended sit-in in front of the government palace in Beirut, and in front of the house of Prime Minister Najib Mikati in Tripoli. However, the internal atmosphere hinges on the regional situation, which is creating growing fear about the future among the Lebanese. Guest, Male #2 No one knows anything about where the country is going. If they don't start acting more morally, then things will escalate. Guest, Male #3 With these rulers, Lebanon will only get worse. Reporter, Female #3 In between fears of slipping back into the street, and external warnings of a power vacuum, and the internal political division, it seems as if the country has gradually entered a new "wait and see" phase. Reporter, Female #3 So the solution is now centered on the president's attempts to find an exit to the emerging crisis. So, will his efforts succeed at bringing together the rivals to hold a dialogue? Or will the political stalemate rise, and explode on the street again, which could lead to the unimaginable? Eliane Shateri, Dubai TV, Beirut. http://news.linktv.org/videos/lebanese-troops-impose-fragile-peace-on-city-streets?start=0 Lebanese troops launch a major security operation to open all roads and force gunmen off the streets, trying to contain an outburst of violence set off by the assassination of a top intelligence official who opposed Syria.<br /> Mon, 22 Oct 2012 13:51:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/lebanese-troops-impose-fragile-peace-on-city-streets Wissam al-Hassan, Lebanon, Lebanon–Syria relations, Beirut, Tripoli, Lebanon, Lebanese Armed Forces, Syrian Civil War, Car bomb, Sectarian Violence, Roadblock Lebanese troops launch a major security operation to open all roads and force gunmen off the streets, trying to contain an outburst of violence set off by the assassination of a top intelligence official who opposed Syria. http://news.linktv.org/videos/raw-video-angry-mourners-clash-with-police-in-beirut?start=0 Shots of gunfire and teargas filled the air as enraged mourners attempted to storm the offices of Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati in Beirut. The violence broke out following the funeral of an intelligence chief who was assassinated on Friday, igniting suspicion and outrage aimed at Syria. Sun, 21 Oct 2012 08:41:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/raw-video-angry-mourners-clash-with-police-in-beirut Najib Mikati, Lebanon–Syria relations, Beirut, Syrian Civil War, Lebanon, Politics of Lebanon, Syria, Funeral procession, Telegraph.co.uk Shots of gunfire and teargas filled the air as enraged mourners attempted to storm the offices of Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati in Beirut. The violence broke out following the funeral of an intelligence chief who was assassinated on Friday, igniting suspicion and outrage aimed at Syria. http://news.linktv.org/videos/beirut-residents-react-to-bomb-god-help-us-we-are-really-scared?start=0 Shocked Beirut residents are not sure how to interpret the car bomb that wrecked the Achrafieh area of the city yesterday. Investigators are still collecting evidence at the blast site. Sat, 20 Oct 2012 10:06:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/beirut-residents-react-to-bomb-god-help-us-we-are-really-scared Achrafieh, Beirut, Lebanon–Syria relations, Car bomb, Lebanon, Syrian Civil War, Politics of Lebanon, Sassine Square, Telegraph.co.uk Shocked Beirut residents are not sure how to interpret the car bomb that wrecked the Achrafieh area of the city yesterday. Investigators are still collecting evidence at the blast site. http://news.linktv.org/videos/massive-beirut-bomb-seen-as-warning-of-more-to-come?start=0 The car bomb blast that has killed at least eight people and injured scores more in <span class="existing-topic object-topic resource"><span class="topic-name">Achrafieh</span></span>, a Christian neighborhood of Beirut, is being seen by residents as "a warning that there will be more attacks to come", says the Telegraph's Ruth Sherlock. Fri, 19 Oct 2012 09:44:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/massive-beirut-bomb-seen-as-warning-of-more-to-come Sassine Square, Achrafieh, Beirut, Lebanon, Car bomb, Lebanon–Syria relations, Vehicle explosion, Christian, Syrian Civil War, Explosion The car bomb blast that has killed at least eight people and injured scores more in Achrafieh, a Christian neighborhood of Beirut, is being seen by residents as "a warning that there will be more attacks to come", says the Telegraph's Ruth Sherlock. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-091712?start=408 The leader of the Lebanese resistance movement Hezbollah, Hassan Nasrallah, made a a rare live speech for hundreds of thousands of protestors voicing their outrage in Beirut over a US-made film that offends Islam, Press TV reports. Mon, 17 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-091712 Nuclear program of Iran, Israel, Iran, Innocence of Muslims, International Atomic Energy Agency, US-Israel relations, Palestinians, Islam, Barack Obama, Syrian Civil War The leader of the Lebanese resistance movement Hezbollah made a surprise appearance and a rare live speech for hundreds of thousands of protestors voicing their outrage in Beirut over a US-made film that offends Islam. Demonstrators chanted slogans against the US and Israel, and waved Lebanese and Hezbollah flags. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-091312?start=35 <p>US embassy protests spread across the Middle East as anger over anti-Islam film grows, shelling of Aleppo continues as UN special envoy arrives in Damascus, Palestinian protestors call for end to Oslo peace accords, and more.</p> Thu, 13 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-091312 United States, Israel, Iran, 2012 US diplomatic missions attacks, Nuclear program of Iran, Islam, Tehran, International Atomic Energy Agency, Bahrain, Palestinians Presenter, Female #1 Demonstrations condemning the American film that offends Islam have spread to Beirut, Gaza, Tunisia, and Mauritania, during which protestors burned the American flag. In Bahrain, the Islamic Scholars Council condemned the offense to the holy prophet, peace be upon him and his followers, and called for popular protests in all mosques in Bahrain on Friday at noon. Reporter, Male #1 A storm of protests swept the Arab and Islamic world against the American film that offends Islam and the prophet, peace be upon him and his followers. Palestinians in the Gaza Strip burned the American flag and pictures of two of the film's producers, and stepped on them with their feet, in front of the United Nations' headquarters. They chanted slogans condemning the film, and assured that they would defend the prophet, peace be upon him and his followers, regardless of the consequences. Reporter, Male #1 And in a public festival in Beirut, various Lebanese groups, political and religious, Christian as well as Muslim, condemned the offensive film, which it considered to be repulsive intellectual terrorism that incites hate, and comes as part of the American and Israeli campaign of hostility towards Islam. Festival participants called on Arab and Islamic ruling regimes to stop groveling before the US administration, and to stand up against sectarian and ideological extremism. Guest, Male #2 (Issam Darwish, Christian Religious Cleric) I feel that this film is a very disgusting act by those who filmed and directed it. We will never accept any offense to Islam. Reporter, Male #1 Mauritanian youths also went out in a demonstration that covered the streets of Nouakchott condemning the offensive film. Protestors gathered in front of the American embassy, calling for its shutdown and the expulsion of the American ambassador, which is the least that could be done for this criminal act. They also chanted slogans condemning this offensive film. Reporter, Male #1 In Tunisia, security forces used rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse a massive demonstration that gathered in front of the American embassy to protest against the offensive American film. And during the demonstration, protestors raised a black banner and burned the American flag, while chanting slogans condemning the United States. Reporter, Male #1 The demonstrations that were organized in front of US embassies around the world have forced different countries to impose strict security measures around the headquarters of their American diplomatic missions, and to deploy police and security forces around the headquarters of those embassies to protect them, especially in Asian countries. http://news.linktv.org/videos/twice-displaced-syrias-palestinian-refugees-flee-to-lebanon?start=0 A half million Palestinian refugees are registered in Syria. Most have remained there but, with the escalation of fighting in and around their camps last month, hundreds of Palestinian families began seeking safer havens in neighboring Lebanon. Mon, 27 Aug 2012 13:47:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/twice-displaced-syrias-palestinian-refugees-flee-to-lebanon Syrian Civil War, Palestinian Refugees, Refugees of the Syrian civil war, Syria, Lebanon, Lebanon–Syria relations, UNRWA, Beirut, Palestinians, Voice of America A half million Palestinian refugees are registered in Syria . Most have remained there but, with the escalation of fighting in and around their camps last month, hundreds of Palestinian families began seeking safer havens in neighboring Lebanon. As VOA's Margaret Besheer reports from Beirut, these Palestinians have now been twice displaced. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-062712?start=942 <p>UN warns of rising sectarian killings in Syria as gunmen attack pro-Assad TV channel, deadly attacks rock Iraq as PM al-Maliki calls for early elections, Sudanese opposition fails to sign post-Bashir political charter, and more.</p> Wed, 27 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-062712 United Nations, Iraq, Syrian Civil War, Nouri al-Maliki, Bahrain Uprising, Politics of Sudan, Lebanese people, Anti-Zionism, Economy of Israel, United Nations Human Rights Council Presenter, Male #1 In the Lebanese capital yesterday, a number of roads were blocked and cars were attacked, turning Beirut's night into one that resembles those of futile wars. Charbel Aboud reports. Reporter, Male #2 Its largest impact is psychological, but it also affects the country's history, security and economy. The Lebanese people in Beirut went to sleep with the black smoke of burning tires, which was followed by gunfire and an attack on New TV. Reporter, Male #2 Today, the government is preparing for a "security month" it says will cover all Lebanese regions, including Beirut's southern suburb of Dahiyeh. The step is the result of security incidents that moved from region to region in Beirut, and included burning tires and garbage bins that rolled from one site to another, and gunfire that terrorized those safe in their homes. On the evening of the initiation of "security month," the people's views varied between those who welcomed the initiative and those who have already lost all hope. Guest, Male #3 It's been a failure for 30 years. Guest, Male #4 The state is nothing without security; that's the most important thing. All I ask from the state is to impose security; I don't want anything else. Guest, Male #5 I wish the state would capture everyone that is destabilizing the security, and get them out of the street. Guest, Male #6 It's complete rubbish; the situation is unbearable. Guest, Female #1 The state is supposed to provide security and stability. Guest, Female #2 I think the whole state should be changed, no? Reporter, Male #2 This time the attack targeted New TV, then spread to different neighborhoods of the capital, as roads were blocked and residents terrorized. The hope is for the security forces to determine their tactics, and for the government to take action before these attacks become a way of life, with black smoke coloring the days of Lebanon. Reporter, Male #2 Along with its failure to solve the economic crises, the government also failed to deal with the security issue. So the question today is who will protect the Lebanese living under a government that has failed to even secure the basic conditions for security and stability? Charbel Aboud, Future TV. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-052512?start=675 Following release of the Lebanese pilgrims held hostage by the Free Syrian Army, the families of the hostages called for making the date of their release an opportunity to renew national unity, reports Future TV. Fri, 25 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-052512 Egyptian presidential election, 2012, Israel, Iran, Nuclear program of Iran, Syrian Civil War, Muslim Brotherhood, Hassan Nasrallah, Ahmed Shafiq, Lebanon, P5+1 Presenter, Female #1 An overwhelming joy has dominated the atmosphere in the southern suburb of Beirut following the announcement of the release of the Lebanese hostages. Meanwhile, the families of the hostages called for making the date of their release an opportunity to renew the national unity. Reporter, Female #2 The hours of indefinite waiting have ended. Three days have passed before the hostages' release. Finally, the streets in the southern suburb ululated for the victory achieved by the intensive negotiations led by local and regional parties, which resulted in the release of the kidnapped hostages. Premier Saad al-Hariri, who followed the issue from overseas, had a strong presence through the residents of the southern suburb of Beirut. For a painful moment, they recounted the sectarian division in the country. Guest, Female #3 I would like to thank you, the press. You helped make our voices heard. They told us that Sheikh Saad al-Hariri sent a private jet to bring back the hostages. Thank God. God willing, their return will help us open a new chapter of national unity. It will help bring us closer in Lebanon. In the end, Lebanon is for all the Lebanese. Guest, Female #4 I would like to send a message to all officials: We, as residents of this suburb, demand the release of all prisoners, and an end to seatrain strife, so that we Lebanese are free. God willing, all of us, public and officials, will remain united and help each other, as we are all on the same side. Guest, Male #1 We want to thank his Excellency Premier Saad Hariri for offering his private jet to help transport these hostages. And God willing, it will be a green spring here in Lebanon. We ask God to keep us united and to love one another, and for Lebanon to remain green forever, God willing. Guest, Male #2 I would like to salute Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, Nabih Barri, and Sheikh Saad Hariri, who offered his private jet to help transport the Lebanese hostages. May God protect everyone, and thank God for the safety of the hostages. Reporter, Female #2 The airport, which is free of tourists and foreigners due to the fear that the situation in Lebanon is deteriorating, is packed with crowds of local residents, who came with joy to wait for their families. On the day of release, another chapter of freedom was recorded in Lebanon's history. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-052412?start=1308 Hezbollah's Sheikh Hassan Nasrallah is appealing for calm after protestors blocked roads in Beirut, reports IBA. Thirteen Shiite pilgrims were abducted in Syria, and the Free Syrian Army is demanding the release of prisoners in Lebanese jails in exchange. Thu, 24 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-052412 Syria, Egyptian presidential election, 2012, Arab world, Free Syrian Army, Lebanon, Israel, Egyptians, Cairo, UN Security Council, Eli Yishai Hezbollah leader Sheikh Hassan Nasrallah is appealing for calm after protestors blocked roads and burned tires in Lebanon's capital Beirut. The violent protests were launched by family members of 13 men who were reportedly abducted in Syria; they were reportedly aboard a bus of Shiite pilgrims returning from a visit to Iran when their vehicle was stopped by the Free Syrian Army after it crossed the Turkish border into Syria. The Syrian rebels are now reportedly demanding the release of prisoners in Lebanese jails in exchange for the abducted men. http://news.linktv.org/videos/gunbattle-in-beirut-amid-fears-of-syria-spillover?start=0 Intense street battles in Beirut that pitted pro- and anti- Syrian Sunni forces against each other early Monday, wounding six people, has prompted fears that the conflict in neighbouring Syria is spilling over into Lebanon. Mon, 21 May 2012 09:08:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/gunbattle-in-beirut-amid-fears-of-syria-spillover Beirut, Syria, Lebanon, Lebanon–Syria relations, Sunni Islam, Tripoli, Lebanon, Bashar al-Assad, France 24 Intense street battles in Beirut that pitted pro- and anti- Syrian Sunni forces against each other early Monday, wounding six people, has prompted fears that the conflict in neighbouring Syria is spilling over into Lebanon. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-052112?start=180 Two people were killed and 18 others were wounded in clashes in Beirut between supporters and opponents of the Syrian regime, following the killing of a religious cleric by the army in the northern Lebanese region of Akkar, reports Dubai TV. Mon, 21 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-052112 Palestinians, NATO, Afghanistan, Israel Defense Forces, Israel, Afghanistan War, United Nations, Military of Yemen, Akkar District, Afghan National Security Forces Presenter, Female #1 A cautious calm returned this morning to the Lebanese capital Beirut, following overnight armed clashes that erupted between supporters and opponents of the Syrian regime. Two people were killed and 18 others were wounded in the clashes. Tension is rising across various Lebanese regions, following the death of a religious cleric by the army, in the northern Lebanese region of Akkar. In response, several political groups called for a truce and warned against what they described as "acts of sectarian strife." Iliam Shatri reports from Beirut. Reporter, Female #2 A cautious calm is dominating the Tariq Jadidah district in the Lebanese capital, after a night full of clashes that ended with the Lebanese army's deployment. The district of Beirut woke up this morning to scenes of destruction, property damage, and causalities, amid chaos and fear of renewed tension. Guest, Male #1 Unfortunately, there's no more talk. What you see here on the ground is what you get. Guest, Male #2 There's tension on the ground, but we need to believe that we can end this tension. Guest, Male #3 A good citizen is a citizen who remains calm. However, there will come a time when he has to break his silence. Reporter, Female #2 As for the night in Beirut, this is how it appeared. Armed confrontations erupted between supporters and opponents of the Syrian regime. The angry crowd closed city streets with burning tires and barriers in protest over the killing of a religious cleric and his companion at a Lebanese army's checkpoint in the northern Akkar region. The incident sparked a wave of indignation and tension across various Lebanese regions. In response, several political leaders called for self-restraint, in a bid to avert dragging the country into strife. Reporter, Female #2 This is the first time in a long time that both sides of the Lebanese conflict agree on the importance of restoring calm and upholding civil peace. However, it remains to be seen whether the tensed street will respond to the call issued by its leadership, especially amid the unfolding developments in Syria, which Lebanon is trying to distance itself from. Guest, Male #4 (George Alam, Writer and Political Analyst) It's not in any Lebanese group's interest to see a civil war in the country. Unfortunately, the Lebanese front is being infiltrated by foreign intelligence. Perhaps, certain foreign groups may benefit from dragging Lebanon into strife. There is a reason to point the finger abroad. The leadership is keen to solve this problem. Reporter, Female #2 From Tripoli, which is still healing from its wounds, to Akkar, where confrontations erupted in the Tariq Jadidah district, Lebanon is facing the challenge of managing to distance itself from the developments in Syria. Is there a plot to drag Lebanon into chaos? Many questions are being raised. And the answers to these questions hinge on the unfolding developments on the ground. From Tariq Jadidah, Iliam Shatri, Dubai TV, Beirut. Presenter, Female #1 North Lebanon was not much different. Today, the residents of Akkar will hold a funeral procession for religious cleric Sheikh Ahmed Abed al-Wahed and his companion, Mohamed al-Mireb, who were killed yesterday at a Lebanese army checkpoint. A general strike and a state of tension are dominating the northern Lebanese region, despite the call for truce by several members of the government and opposition. The army said it launched an investigation into the incident. In response, the residents rejected the army's intervention in the case. On the ground, the army was able to reopen the streets in Tripoli, Akkar, al-Biqaa, and the coastal road connecting Beirut with the South, which protestors blocked with burning tires. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-032912?start=462 Rights activists from all over the world have gathered in Beirut to join Friday's global march to Jerusalem and al-Quds, Press TV reports. Among the participants were several anti-Zionist rabbis opposed to Israel's aggressive policies in the occupied territories. Thu, 29 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-032912 Palestinians, Israel, Jerusalem, Syrian Civil War, Arab League, Israel Defense Forces, Bashar al-Assad, Israelis, Syria, Israeli–Palestinian conflict Rights activists from all over the world have gathered in the Lebanese capital Beirut to join Friday's global march to Jerusalem and al-Quds. They met at the city council to show their determination for taking part in the rally. Among the participants were several anti-Zionist rabbis opposed to Israel's aggressive policies in the occupied territories. The activists plan to hold a Land Day rally near Lebanon's southern border. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-011712?start=1074 Kuwait to deport 'stateless' protestors who demanded citizenship, Yemeni regime accused of handing over Rada'a to extremist groups, Syria rejects Qatar's call for Arab troops, and more.<br /> Tue, 17 Jan 2012 14:00:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-011712 Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, 2011 Kuwait protests, Yemen Uprising, Syrian Civil War, Middle East Peace Process, Hosni Mubarak, Cyber warfare, 2011-2012 Saudi Arabia protests, House of Saud The international executive committee of the global march to Jerusalem al Quds has held a conference in the Lebanese capital Beirut. The organization has condemned the Judaization of Jerusalem al Quds, calling for solidarity with the city. The meeting is a follow-up to the previous one in Amman in Jordan last month. The participants have reached a consensus to form an international central committee representing all regions of the world. The organization set the 30th of March for rallies to be staged in countries like Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon. http://news.linktv.org/videos/nasrallah-delivers-defiant-message-from-hezbollah?start=0 Hassan Nasrallah has accused the opposition in Syria of playing into the hands of Israel and the US at a rally to mark the religious festival of Ashura. It was his first public appearance since 2008. Tue, 06 Dec 2011 12:03:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/nasrallah-delivers-defiant-message-from-hezbollah Hezbollah, Hassan Nasrallah, Beirut, Lebanon, Syria, Syrian Civil War, Shia Islam, Day of Ashura, Israel, Euronews The leader of Hezbollah in Lebanon has made a rare public appearance in Beirut at which he accused the opposition in Syria of playing into the hands of Israel and the US. Sheikh Hassan Nasrallah addressed a rally to mark the religious festival of Ashura, one of the most important events in the Shi'ite Muslim calendar. He is rarely seen in public, usually preferring to speak via video, but he used the occasion to send out a defiant message. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-120611?start=796 Twin bombings kill scores of Afghans on Shiite holy day, Kuwait's emir dissolves parliament amid corruption allegations, thousands in Saudi Arabia's Qatif condemn killing of protestors, and more.<br /> Tue, 06 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-120611 Syrian Civil War, Arab–Israeli conflict, Syria, Israel, Day of Ashura, Palestine, Muharram, Homs, Hezbollah, Hassan Nasrallah Following a rocket fire from Lebanon and rocket tests in Syria, Defense Minister Ehud Barak today toured the nothern border. This as Hezbollah leader Hassan Nazrallah made a rare public appearance, while Syrian President Bashar al-Assad continues his killing spree. It's not coincidental that Defense Minister Ehud Barak visited the Golan Heights today and attended a Golani Brigade exercise. The tour came two days after the Syrian army test fired several rockets, including a scud ballistic missile and less than a week after the Katyusha rocket attack from Lebanon. Barak was clearly interested in conveying to the policymakers across the border, that Israel is confident and prepared for any development. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-120611?start=1367 Twin bombings kill scores of Afghans on Shiite holy day, Kuwait's emir dissolves parliament amid corruption allegations, thousands in Saudi Arabia's Qatif condemn killing of protestors, and more.<br /> Tue, 06 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-120611 Syrian Civil War, Arab–Israeli conflict, Syria, Israel, Day of Ashura, Palestine, Muharram, Homs, Hezbollah, Hassan Nasrallah The secretary general of Lebanon's Hezbollah movement says the US Central Intelligence Agency has become a tool in the hands of Israel. Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah said President Barack Obama's administration bears enmity against Middle Eastern nations. He said the US and Israel have been inciting sectarian violence in the region to achieve their goals. Earlier in the day Nasrallah made his first public appearance since 2008. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-110811?start=1297 <p>Iran slams nuclear agency report as "fabrication," Bahraini opposition party decries the Arab League's double standards, mock trial in Tunisia sentences Ben Ali to death, and more.</p> Tue, 08 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-110811 Israel, Nuclear program of Iran, Iran, Arab League, Palestinian National Authority, Peace Now, Mordechai Kedar, Bahrain Uprising, Syrian Civil War, Withdrawal of US troops from Iraq Israeli reconnaissance planes have once again violated Lebanese air space. The Lebanese national news agency says two Israeli reconnaissance planes flew over most parts of the country for several hours on Monday. Israel has repeatedly violated Lebanon's air space since the 2006 war against the country. Beirut has condemned the over flights on several occasions, saying they constitute a blatant infringement of UN Resolution 1701 and the country's sovereignty. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-081711?start=972 Yemeni opposition forms national council against Saleh, Hamas warns of looming humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Libyan rebels vow to topple Gaddafi by the end of August, and more.<br /><br /> Wed, 17 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-081711 Israel, Israel Defense Forces, Gaza, Turkey, Protest, Middle East Peace Process, Gaza blockade, Palestinians, Lebanon, Mahmoud Abbas Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas has stepped up his efforts for support in seeking UN approval of Palestinian statehood next month. The PA boss travelled to Beirut for talks with Foreign Minister Adnan Mansour, Prime Minister Najib Mikati, and President Michel Suleiman. Lebanon is one of the ten non-permanent current members of the United Nations Security Council and will serve as council president in September when the issue of Palestinian statehood is to be addressed. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-081111?start=866 Somalis flee to Ethiopia to escape recruitment of child soldiers, Yemen's Saleh clings to power as protestors denounce US-Saudi interference, report says Israel expropriating 90 per cent of Palestinian water, and more.<br /> Thu, 11 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-081111 Israel, Protest, Syria, 2011 Israel protests, Syrian Civil War, Bashar al-Assad, Artillery, Jerusalem, Yemen, Beirut At least two people have been killed in a bomb explosion in a Christian suburb of the Lebanese capital Beirut. Police say the handmade bomb went off near the St. Elias Church. One person has also been injured in the blast. Initial reports say a judge was the apparent target of the attack. The blast, however, failed to kill him. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-080411?start=329 A number of shabiha from Hezbollah's government assaulted a group of independent Lebanese activists and journalists in front of the Syrian embassy in Beirut, a reminder of the era of the Syrian mandate over Lebanon, reports Future TV. Thu, 04 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-080411 Protest, Israel, Palestinians, Syria, Bashar al-Assad, Hunger strike, Middle East Peace Process, NATO, Libya, Somalia Presenter, Male #1 On the northern Lebanese border in the Wadi Khaled region, Syrian forces heavily opened fire on the village of Hunaydir, which led a number of terrified residents to flee. The gunfire caused damage to the house of a citizen by the name of Ahmed al-Ali. Presenter, Female #1 A number of shabeha from Hezbollah's government assaulted a group of independent Lebanese activists and journalists in front of the Syrian embassy in Beirut. This is a reminder of the era of the Syrian mandate over Lebanon. Omar Harb reports. Reporter, Male #2 The shabeha in the heart of Beirut: the enemies of freedom went from attacking Syrian citizens in Homs, Hama, Damascus, and Daraa to assaulting Lebanese activists on al-Hamra Street. They came with batons and knives and attacked people standing in front of the Syrian embassy in solidarity with the Syrian people. This led a number of activists to be admitted to Beirut's hospitals in serious conditions. Guest, Male #3 (Khadar Salama, journalist and blogger) We were surprised by a number of people making phone calls; they are either embassy employees or its security in civilian clothes. Then, a little while later, we saw a group of about 50 people coming towards us from both sides of al-Makdisi Street, the street behind al-Hamra. They were carrying pictures of Bashar al-Assad and the Syrian flag. They took out sticks and knives and attacked us. During the attack, chairs, stones, and glass bottles were thrown at us. A Syrian embassy car chased a young man and woman to a restaurant on Hamra Street and assaulted them inside the restaurant. Reporter, Male #2 After the attack, the shabeha of the Syrian embassy chased the young men and women down the streets and into the restaurants of Hamra to beat them. Guest, Male #4, Nabil (Civil Rights Activist) We are independent young men and women with no affiliation to any political or religious group in the country. We gathered to protest in front of the Syrian embassy in solidarity with the Syrian people. We were standing and suddenly these guys walked up to us and one of them punched me in the eye. Reporter, Male #2 The attack on civil activists generated a reaction from the head of the National Struggle Front and Member of Parliament Walid Jumblatt. He stressed the right to protest and preserve freedom of speech. He indicated that turning several streets in the capital and areas in Beirut into security zones will not benefit anyone. Guest, Male #5 (Riyan al-Ashqar, Secretary-general of the progressive youth organization) There is an implicit agreement among all Lebanese groups that this is a pluralistic country, that this is the country of freedom and democracy in the Arab world. It is important to improve these freedoms. We denounce any behavior or aggression on anyone, regardless of their political opinion. We took a stand on the events of August 7, and even before then, during the era of Emile Lahoud we also had a position. So the question of freedom is a sacred issue. We are in favor of using these weapons against the Israeli enemy but against using these weapons or threatening to use them inside the country. Reporter, Male #1 Jumblatt also called for respecting media outlets. He reminded those he referred to as "certain ministerial figures" that freedom of press is as important as political and general freedoms. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-070511-world-news-from-the-middle-east?start=1406 <p>French boat "Dignity" eludes Greek crackdown by settling sail to Gaza, Pakistani tribal leaders demand an end to US drone attacks, Bahrain begins "national dialogue" as crackdown on activists continues, and more.</p> Tue, 05 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-070511-world-news-from-the-middle-east Israel, Protest, Gaza, Flotilla, Lebanon, Rafik Hariri, Palestinian National Authority, Gaza flotilla raid, Palestinians, Hezbollah Presenter, Female #1 Residents of the town of Shihur are withholding information regarding their "son" who is being accused of assassinating Hariri. My colleague Ogharid Dandash reports. Reporter, Female #2 Until 10:30 AM of June 30, 2011, Hussein Anaissi, was a financial auditor, hailing from a religious family, whose roots can be traced to the southern town of Shihur. And this was the complete introduction to the man's life. After the announcement of the indictment, Hussein, whose official name is Hussein Hassan Issa, became one of four suspects accused of carrying out the assassination of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri. The period during which he held a "low profile" ended, and with it Hussein is no longer a man living in the shadows. Hussein became an internationally wanted man for his role in Hariri's assassination, and particularly for recruiting Ahmad Abu Ades and later hiding him. The town of Imam Musa al-Sadr is once again in the spotlight. While the residents are declining to answer inquisitive questions, they have unanimously confirmed that Hussein was neither an activist nor a security threat, saying he rarely visited the town. One of them recounts that he only came to attend the funeral of his brother, a martyr of the July war. Ahmad was martyred along with his son Ali. As for the little information available on Hussein, it indicates that his family left for Iraq at the beginning of the Lebanese civil war. The family returned in the 1980s and Hussein spends most of his time in the capital Beirut. He is married and his older brother is named Ali. His relatives are close to Hezbollah. As for Hussein, the town's residents have no proof that he belongs to the party. He is a believer, a financial auditor and his life's patterns do not point to any unusual activities. In the first indictment, Hussein Anaissi is one of the four accused but unknown to the general public. However, Arabs remember the indictment in the Darfur case, which included accusation of local figures in its first draft. An indictment that later accused the Sudanese president in its third draft; an accusation that could be played out sometime soon. ** Contact Mosaic News: mosaicnews{at}linktv{dot}org http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-060611-world-news-from-the-middle-east?start=1006 Arab revolutions have inspired the youth of Lebanon to create change in their society. Young activists began a campaign to establish a secular state instead of a sectarian regime, considered to be the oldest in the Arab world. Mon, 06 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-060611-world-news-from-the-middle-east Protest, Syria, Human rights, Israel, Golan Heights, Saudi Arabia, Naksa, Arab Spring, Ali Abdullah Saleh, Bahrain Presenter, Female # 1 Arab revolutions have inspired the youth of Lebanon to create change in their society. Young activists began a massive campaign under the slogan "the people want to topple the sectarian regime." The campaign aims to achieve genuine change through parliament's passing of an electoral law based on proportionality, which would allow a wider representation of all segments of society. The ultimate goal is to establish a secular state instead of a sectarian regime, considered to be the oldest in the Arab world, and that led to a civil war during the last century's final quarter in which thousands of victims were killed and wounded. Our correspondent in Beirut, Salam Khoder has the details in the following report. Reporter, Female # 2 These people want to topple the sectarian regime in Lebanon, one of the oldest and longest-held systems in the Arab world. They say they are tired of having the country's wealth and decision-making positions dominated by the kings of the sects. So, they want to permanently remove them from their seats. Guest, Male # 1 (Nahmar el-Hamayekh, Lebanese writer and political analyst) There is a structure and culture of sectarianism and factionalism that is entrenched in history, in addition to the special interest groups that have international support and regional concerns. All of this amounts to the adoption of the sectarian formula, which is explosive but also silent. It is also a formula that is anchored but robust, a tragic formula but that is ongoing. Reporter, Female # 2 This is one of the protests that cut through the streets of Beirut in the last three months. Demonstrators are demanding a secular state that does not favor certain citizens over others, unless on the basis of their qualifications. A number of protests were held and followed by the confinement of the emerging popular mobilization. Activists in the campaign to topple the sectarian regime say the temporary halt of the popular movement gives the campaign a chance to start a workshop to redraft its goals in a more organized and specific manner. The fundamental goal of the campaign now hinges on the Lebanese parliament. They say that while this parliament is the result of the sectarian system, it is also the country legislative's body and the first steps for change could pass through it. Guest, Male # 2 (Abdel Rahman Zaazaa, Lebanese political activist) Our campaign aims to change the electoral system into a more modern one that adopts the principle of proportionality with the voting age set at 18. Guest, Male # 3 (Eli el-Fahman, Lebanese lawyer and political activist) The Lebanese people can be transitioned through elections, through parliament, outside the sectarian powers, meaning no Christian forces and no Muslim forces. This would be based on the principle of proportionality in which all groups are represented. Reporter, Female # 2 The sectarian regime in Lebanon exploded into a civil war in which over 100,000 Lebanese were killed, hundreds of thousands injured, and nearly 20,000 disappeared with still no knowledge of their fate. It is a regime that simply means that each leader is the legitimate and sole representative of their sect, with almost all political organizational structures founded on religion, and without any real political and social pressure groups in the country. This is what remains of the campaign to topple the sectarian regime in Lebanon. Optimists say it is a rest period before the coming storm, while pessimists believe the campaign ended fruitlessly. And in between the two, there are those who are scared of fading away into uneven demographics and those who are indifferent about producing any change. Salam Khoder, al-Jazeera, Beirut.