The Daily Star Lebanon Breaking News, Lebanon News, Middle East News & World News

A Qatari initiative concerning Lebanon’s presidential issue is expected to gain momentum at the start of the upcoming year. Sheikh Jassem bin Fahad Al-Thani, a Qatari intelligence official, is set to present a list of potential presidential candidates to Beirut. These candidates have garnered consensus and approval from a majority of political parties in Lebanon.

Nabih Berri, the Speaker of Lebanon’s Parliament, has emphasized the significance of consensus in the country’s political landscape. He pointed to the recent legislative session and the extension of the army chief’s term as examples of what can be achieved through consensus. Berri expressed the view that a similar approach could be applied to the presidential election if there is …

On Tuesday, the Israeli military announced that it had razed the house of a Palestinian man accused of fatally shooting two Israelis – a father and his son – at a car wash in the West Bank, a territory under Israeli occupation. Osama Bani Fadl was apprehended by the police in November following an extensive search. He is accused of …

The adoption of a new UN resolution aimed at facilitating critical aid to Gaza has encountered delays due to two key issues concerning the United States. These issues include the inclusion of language about halting hostilities and the proposal to place the UN in charge of inspecting aid trucks entering Gaza. Initially scheduled for a vote on Monday, the Arab-sponsored …

The leader of Hamas was set to arrive in Egypt on Wednesday to discuss a ceasefire in Gaza, following Israel’s indication of its willingness to negotiate a pause in exchange for the release of more hostages. There is increasing global pressure for a new ceasefire to enhance aid delivery to the besieged Palestinian region, with the United Nations preparing to …

On Wednesday, Hezbollah launched an attack on the Israeli Metulla post, in response to Israeli shelling in the areas around Kfarkela and al-Naqoura. Additionally, Israeli aircraft carried out strikes near Aita al-Shaab. The Israeli military stated that it had aimed at Hezbollah positions on Tuesday following an incident where fire intercepted near the border resulted in injuries to two reserve …

Understanding the Lebanese Economy and Currency SituationLebanon’s economic landscape is unique, influenced by various factors like political instability and inflation. The Lebanese Pound (LBP) is the official currency, but its value fluctuates significantly. Understanding this dynamic is crucial for travelers to make informed decisions about the best currency to carry. Why Carrying Multiple Currencies is BeneficialGiven the fluctuating economy, it’s …

China’s reusable space plane, known as Shenlong or “Divine Dragon,” has deepened its aura of mystery during its third mission, just four days after launch. Amateur astronomers and spacecraft trackers globally have been keenly observing the spacecraft since its takeoff and have recently reported that the Chinese spacecraft has discharged six unidentified objects into Earth’s orbit. Their purpose remains unknown. …