logo
#

Latest news with #IsraeliWar

Municipal vote in war-torn south Lebanon highlights shifting political dynamics — the details
Municipal vote in war-torn south Lebanon highlights shifting political dynamics — the details

LBCI

time20-05-2025

  • Politics
  • LBCI

Municipal vote in war-torn south Lebanon highlights shifting political dynamics — the details

Report by Bassam Abou Zeid, English adaptation by Karine Keuchkerian Reconstruction has not yet begun in southern Lebanon, which was devastated by the Israeli war. Yet the region is preparing for municipal elections expected to reflect the choices of its people, amid contests unfolding across all districts. Two factors make these elections different from those in other governorates: Many of the destroyed villages have relocated their polling stations to other areas out of fear of Israeli attacks. Additionally, the elections are scheduled for Saturday, May 24, instead of Sunday, May 25—the anniversary of the liberation of the south from Israeli occupation in 2000. This year's anniversary coincides with parts of southern Lebanese territory being re-occupied. In the South Governorate, there are 153 municipalities: 48 in the Sidon District, six of which are uncontested; 40 in the Jezzine District, with nine uncontested; and 65 in the Tyre District, also with nine uncontested. In the Nabatieh Governorate, there are 119 municipalities: 40 in the Nabatieh District, three of which are uncontested; 36 in Bint Jbeil, with two uncontested; 17 in Hasbaya, with two uncontested; and 26 in Marjeyoun, also with two uncontested. In predominantly Shiite cities, towns, and villages, the Hezbollah-Amal Movement political duo is seeking to demonstrate its strong presence and that its popularity has not been shaken by the war or by targeted campaigns, particularly those directed at Hezbollah. The duo has formed "Development and Loyalty" lists, which are being challenged by independent candidates, leftist groups, and change-driven forces, all aiming to contest what they describe as the alliance's dominance. In the Sunni communities of the south, particularly in Sidon and the Arqoub area, the absence of the Future Movement has turned the elections into family-based contests. However, politics still play a central role, with several parties, various figures, and current and former Sunni members of Parliament backing competing electoral lists. In Christian towns, villages, and cities, political competition—shaped by family dynamics—is expected to be intense, particularly between the Lebanese Forces and the Kataeb Party on one side, and the Free Patriotic Movement and figures close to Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri on the other. Rivalry is especially visible in the contest for the presidency of the Union of Jezzine Municipalities. In Druze communities, politics and family ties are also intertwined. The Progressive Socialist Party remains dominant, followed by the Lebanese Democratic Party. Both have leaned toward cooperation in this election cycle, with Berri also exerting some influence, along with change-driven forces and independent figures.

Egypt welcomes Oman's efforts leading to ceasefire agreement in Yemen
Egypt welcomes Oman's efforts leading to ceasefire agreement in Yemen

Times of Oman

time07-05-2025

  • Politics
  • Times of Oman

Egypt welcomes Oman's efforts leading to ceasefire agreement in Yemen

Cairo: The Arab Republic of Egypt has welcomed the efforts of the Sultanate of Oman, which resulted in reaching a ceasefire agreement in Yemen with the United States. In a statement issued today by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Egypt expressed hope that this agreement would positively impact freedomn of navigation in the Red Sea. Egypt also voiced its aspiration that the coming period would see full adherence to the agreement, providing a constructive push toward ending the Israeli war on Gaza and advancing efforts to establish security and stability in the region.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store