English LCCC Newsbulletin For Lebanese, Lebanese Related, Global News
& Editorials
For February 21/2026
Compiled & Prepared by: Elias Bejjani
#elias_bejjani_news
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Bible Quotations For today
Parable Of the Pharisee and the Tax
Collector and their kind of prayers: All who exalt themselves will be humbled,
but all who humble themselves will be exalted
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Luke 18/09-14/:”Jesus also told
this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and
regarded others with contempt: ‘Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a
Pharisee and the other a tax-collector. The Pharisee, standing by himself, was
praying thus, “God, I thank you that I am not like other people: thieves,
rogues, adulterers, or even like this tax-collector. I fast twice a week; I give
a tenth of all my income.”But the tax-collector, standing far off, would not
even look up to heaven, but was beating his breast and saying, “God, be merciful
to me, a sinner!”I tell you, this man went down to his home justified rather
than the other; for all who exalt themselves will be humbled, but all who humble
themselves will be exalted.”
Titles For The Latest English LCCC
Lebanese & Lebanese Related News & Editorials published
on February
20-21/2026
Elias Bejjani/Text and Video (Arabic & English): Hezbollah is an army of
mercenaries entirely subordinate to the Iranian Mullahs; therefore, negotiations
regarding its weapons and the means to uproot it from Lebanon must be conducted
with Iran under international & Arabic sponsorship.
Video Link to an important set of reports from the “Syrian Satellite Channel”
website on the commemoration of the Syriac Mother Language Day that falls on
February 21/
Link to a video interview with engineer Tom Harb from "DNA Youtube Platform/
At least 10 killed, 30 wounded by Israeli strikes on Bekaa Valley
Lebanon says 8 dead in Israeli strikes on east, south
Hamas says attack on camp led to civilian casualties, accuses Israel of 'flimsy
pretexts'
Israel Strikes Sites Across Lebanon Linked to Hamas and Hezbollah
Israeli Air Raids in the Bekaa Valley
Lebanon’s Justice Minister Questions 1955 Anti-Israel Law, Signals Shift in
Official Discourse
From fuel to VAT: Breaking down the rise in retail prices
Transparency is not optional:’ PM Salam presses lawmakers on public sector pay
Saudi ban not lifted, elections won’t happen, envoys reportedly tell Hariri
Netanyahu says Israel won't withdraw from 'buffer zones' in Lebanon, Syria
Reform Ministry, UNESCO, and AUB launch youth policymaking initiative
Quint mulling election postponement as power shift unlikely
Raad meets Berri, says Hezbollah keen on security and stability
Pro-Berri candidate nominates himself for 'District 16'
Israeli operations in Lebanon against Hezbollah: February 9–15, 2026/David Daoud/FDD's
Long War Journal/February 20/2026
Titles For The Latest English LCCC Miscellaneous
Reports And News published
on February
20-21/2026
Video-Link to an interview from Fox News with USA Senator Ted Cruz: We’re
at an ‘extraordinary moment/Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, predicts the outcome of
tension with the Iranian regime on ‘Hannity.
Trump Gives Iran 15 Days to Make a Deal or Face Action
Trump on Iran Strikes: ‘I Am Considering It’
Iran Says Draft Nuclear Plan to be Ready in 'Next Two, Three Days'
U.S. Announced Plans to Reopen Embassy in Damascus, Syria
Hamas Says Political Path for Gaza Must Begin With End to 'Aggression'
Israel Army Says on 'Defensive Alert' Regarding Iran but no Change to Public
Guidelines
Hamas Says Open to Gaza Peacekeeping Force, But Rejects Interference in
'Internal Affairs'
Hamas retakes control of daily life in Gaza
Israeli Druze Leader Says Syrian Community 'Besieged' Months After Clashes
Syria welcomes Canada’s decision to amend sanctions
Titles For The Latest English LCCC analysis & editorials from miscellaneous
sources published
on February
20-21/2026
Beyond
disarming Hamas, Trump’s Board of Peace must deradicalize Gaza as well/Mark
Dubowitz and Ben Cohen/New York Post/February 20/2026
Iran’s Khamenei Invites Conflict, Not Compromise/Janatan Sayeh and Behnam Ben
Taleblu/FDD/February 20/2026
Gaza’s New Police Force Must Exclude Hamas/Ahmad Sharawi/FDD/February 20/2026
Trump Is Allowing China to Take Over Critical U.S. Tech/Gordon G. Chang/Gatestone
Institute/February 20/2026
The real story behind the Saudi–UAE rift/Ali Shihabi/Arab News/February 20, 2026
History can teach us how to make Gaza ceasefire work/Daoud Kuttab/Arab
News/February 20, 2026
Europe, the world’s underappreciated superpower/Nadia Calvino/Arab News/February
20, 2026
Europe must be an equal partner in NATO/Khaled Abou Zahr/Arab News/February 20,
2026
The Latest
English LCCC Lebanese & Lebanese Related News & Editorials published
on February
20-21/2026
Elias Bejjani/Text and Video
(Arabic & English): Hezbollah is an army of mercenaries entirely subordinate to
the Iranian Mullahs; therefore, negotiations regarding its weapons and the means
to uproot it from Lebanon must be conducted with Iran under international &
Arabic sponsorship.
https://eliasbejjaninews.com/2026/02/152238/
February 17/2026
Emphasis on Hezbollah’s Iranian Alignment
In a statement issued byHezbollah on February 16, 1985, it declared that it is
“committed to the commands of a wise and just leadership embodied in the ولاية
الفقيه (Guardianship of the Jurist), represented by Ruhollah Khomeini, the
Ayatollah al-Mousawi, the instigator of the Muslims’ revolution and the reviver
of their glorious renaissance.”
In an interview published in the Lebanese newspaper As-Safir in February 1988,
Hassan Nasrallah stated:“Our project, which we have no choice but to adopt as
ideological believers, is the project of an Islamic state and the rule of Islam,
and that Lebanon should not be a single Islamic republic but rather part of the
greater Islamic Republic, ruled by the Awaited Imam and his rightful نائب
(deputy), the Jurist-Guardian, Imam Khomeini.”
Elias Bejjani: Key Points In my Video Commentary
*Legal Necessity: Legally, Lebanon is required to negotiate with Iran—under
Arab, International, and American supervision—regarding the weaponry, existence,
and institutions of Hezbollah, which are subordinate to Iran and act upon its
orders.
*The “Army, People, Resistance” Heresy: This formula is unconstitutional and was
forcibly inserted into ministerial statements. Legislation originates from the
Parliament, not from a ministerial statement, which is merely a proposed action
plan.
*Eternal Enmity: The concept of “eternal enmity” is a sick sectarian ideology
promoted by both Sunni and Shia political Islam to trade in conflict and justify
their continued existence.
*Iranian Command: Hezbollah’s decision-making lies in Iran and is governed by ”
Sharia mandates” (Taklif Shari).
*A Captive Community: The Shia community has been kidnapped and held hostage
since 1982.
*Foreign Identity: Hezbollah is an Iranian army composed of Lebanese
mercenaries.
*Lack of Legitimacy: Hezbollah has never been legitimate, Lebanese, or a
“resistance”; it is a terrorist organization by virtue of its “Mullah-inspired”
composition.
*The Lebanese Army: The Lebanese Army is capable of disarming Hezbollah if the
State officially tasks it with this mission.
*Israeli Actions: Israel has never once committed aggression against Lebanon;
rather, it has always reacted to attacks launched against it from Lebanese
territory by Syrian, Arab, Iranian, Jihadist, and Leftist factions.
*The Liberation Myth: Hezbollah did not liberate the South; it is not part of
the Lebanese social fabric, and it does not represent the Shia. It is a
fully-fledged Iranian army made up of Lebanese mercenaries.
*Ending the “Arena” Status: It is required today, not tomorrow, to close the
“Lebanese Arena,” which has been open since the Cairo Agreement to all those who
trade—with obscenity, hypocrisy, and lies—in the name of “Resistance and the
Liberation of Palestine.”
*The Only Solution: The sole solution is full peace with the State of Israel.
Whoever wishes to fight Israel should do so from their own country.
*Defense vs. Offense: The Lebanese Army is a defensive, not an offensive force.
The majority of Lebanese do not view Israel as an enemy but as a neighbor,
noting that there are no inherent problems between Lebanon and Israel, and
Israel has no ambitions within Lebanese territory.
Video Link to an important set of reports from the
“Syrian Satellite Channel” website on the commemoration of the Syriac Mother
Language Day that falls on February 21/
February 20/2026
https://eliasbejjaninews.com/2026/02/152337/
Speakers-Participants
Eng. Amine Jules Iskandar: President of Tur Levnon Association for Arts.
Leila Latti: Mukhtara and Researcher.
Nura Jerjes: Secretary-General of the Syriac Union Party.
Malphono Elia Barsoum: President of the Friends of the Syriac Language
Association.
Roy Araygi: Researcher and President of the Ehden Youth Association.
Chorbishop Elias Jerjes: From the Syriac Orthodox Archdiocese of Mount Lebanon
and Tripoli.
Ephrem and Gabriel Kourieh: Representing Syriac families.
Host: Jornalist Rania Zahra Charbel
Suroyo TV – YouTube Channel
Link to a video interview with engineer Tom Harb from
"DNA Youtube Platform/
An analysis of the inevitability of war on Iran, the importance of federalism in
Islamic countries, the transgressions of the Syrian Sharaa regime, the situation
of the Lebanese army leadership infiltrated by Hezbollah and the necessity of
changing this leadership, in addition to important files related to Lebanon and
the occupation by the terrorist Hezbollah the Persian jihadist proxy
https://eliasbejjaninews.com/2026/02/152363/
Key topics covered in the interview
*Tensions between Washington and the Lebanese Army Leadership/Tom Harb stated
that the Lebanese Army Commander's visit to the United States failed because he
included Brigadier General Suhail Harb in the delegation, describing him as a
"leader of information for Hezbollah." This raised intelligence concerns at the
Pentagon. He revealed that Senator Graham withdrew from the meeting with Army
Commander Rudolph Heikel and sent his staff to end it after the commander stated
that "Hezbollah is not a terrorist organization," which he considered a major
diplomatic blunder.
*Loss of Trust and Conditional Aid/He warned that trust between US lawmakers and
the Lebanese military leadership has been severely shaken, which could lead to a
reduction in military aid.
*The Need to "Clean Up" the Lebanese Army/He emphasized that what is needed now
is to purge the Lebanese Army leadership of elements complicit with Hezbollah
and replace the top commanders to restore the confidence of the international
community.
*Saudi-Emarati Conflict/Regarding the disputes between Saudi Arabia and the UAE,
he noted that Senator Lindsey Graham is trying to restore relations between the
two countries to their previous positive state.
*War on Iran/Harb indicated that the Trump administration is negotiating with
Iran from a position of strength, emphasizing demands including the dismantling
of the Revolutionary Guard and the end of its regional influence. Otherwise,
military options or regime change within Iran remain on the table, and he
considered war inevitable to overthrow the dictatorial mullah regime.
*The Sharaa Syrian Regime/He criticized the practices of the Sharaa regime
regarding the oppression of minorities and called for a federal system that
respects the rights of all Syrian communities, adding that this should be a
priority for all Islamic countries.
At least 10 killed, 30 wounded by Israeli strikes on
Bekaa Valley
Agence France Presse/February 20, 2026
Israeli strikes on the country's east and south killed at least twelve people on
Friday, with Israel's army saying it targeted militant group Hezbollah and its
Palestinian ally Hamas. A Hezbollah source told AFP that a military leader from
the Iran-backed group was among the dead in the strikes in the eastern Bekaa
Valley.Israel has kept up regular strikes on Lebanon despite a November 2024
ceasefire that sought to halt more than a year of hostilities with Hezbollah,
usually saying it is targeting the group but occasionally also Hamas militants.
Israeli strikes in the Bekaa "led to an initial toll of ten dead and more than
30 wounded, distributed across the region's hospitals", the National News Agency
said. The agency had earlier reported "heavy strikes" in several locations in
the region, including a raid on a building in Riyak. Israel's army said it hit
"Hezbollah command centers" used to advance "terror attacks against IDF troops
and Israel", in the Baalbek area in Lebanon. It claimed that within the command
centers, weapons and funds utilized by Hezbollah were being stored,
"constituting a violation of the understandings between Israel and Lebanon."The
raids came hours after an Israeli strike on the country's largest Palestinian
refugee camp killed two people, according to the health ministry, with Israel's
army saying it had targeted Hamas. In October 2023, Hezbollah began launching
rockets at Israel in support of Hamas and the Palestinians at the outset of the
Gaza war, triggering hostilities that culminated in two months of all-out war
between Israel and the Iran-backed group. Lebanon's government last year
committed to disarming Hezbollah and the army said last month that it had
completed the first phase of the plan, covering the area near the Israeli
border.Israel, which accuses Hezbollah of rearming, has criticized the army's
progress as insufficient.
Lebanon says 8 dead in Israeli strikes on east, south
AFP/February 20, 2026
BEIRUT: Lebanon said Israeli strikes on the country’s east and south killed at
least eight people on Friday, with Israel’s army saying it targeted militant
group Hezbollah and its Palestinian ally Hamas. A Hezbollah source told AFP that
a military leader from the Iran-backed group was among the dead in the strikes
in the eastern Bekaa Valley. Israel has kept up regular strikes on Lebanon
despite a November 2024 ceasefire that sought to halt more than a year of
hostilities with Hezbollah, usually saying it is targeting the group but
occasionally also Hamas militants.
Israeli strikes in the Bekaa “led to an initial toll of six dead and more than
25 wounded, distributed across the region’s hospitals,” the state-run National
News Agency said. The agency had earlier reported “heavy strikes” in several
locations in the region, including a raid on a building in Riyak. Israel’s army
said it hit “Hezbollah command centers” in the Baalbek area. The raids came
hours after an Israeli strike on the country’s largest Palestinian refugee camp
killed two people, according to the health ministry, with Israel’s army saying
it had targeted Hamas. The NNA said “an Israeli drone” targeted a neighborhood
of the Ain Al-Helweh camp, which is located on the outskirts of the southern
city of Sidon. An AFP correspondent saw smoke rising from a building in the
densely populated camp as ambulances headed to the scene.
Hamas
The Israeli army said in a statement that its forces “struck a Hamas command
center from which terrorists operated.”The Israeli military “is operating
against the entrenchment” of the Palestinian militant group in Lebanon and will
“continue to act decisively against Hamas terrorists wherever they operate,” it
added.
Hamas in a statement condemned the attack, which it said led to “civilian”
casualties.It rejected Israel’s allegations as “flimsy pretexts,” saying the
targeted building “belongs to the joint security force charged with maintaining
security and stability in the camp.”A raid on Ain Al-Helweh last November that
Israel said targeted a Hamas training compound killed 13 people. The UN rights
office had said 11 children were killed in that strike, while Hamas denied it
had military installations in Palestinian camps in Lebanon. In October 2023,
Hezbollah began launching rockets at Israel in support of Hamas at the outset of
the Gaza war, triggering hostilities that culminated in two months of all-out
war between Israel and the Iran-backed Lebanese militant group. Lebanon’s
government last year committed to disarming Hezbollah and the army said last
month that it had completed the first phase of the plan, covering the area near
the Israeli border.Israel, which accuses Hezbollah of rearming, has criticized
the army’s progress as insufficient.
Hamas says attack on camp led to civilian casualties,
accuses Israel of 'flimsy pretexts'
Agence France Presse/February 20, 2026
Hamas condemned Friday an Israeli strike on the country's largest Palestinian
refugee camp that killed two people.In a statement, Hamas said the attack led to
"civilian" casualties. The NNA said "an Israeli drone" targeted a neighbourhood
of the Ain al-Helweh camp, which is located on the outskirts of the southern
city of Sidon.An AFP correspondent saw smoke rising from a building in the
densely populated camp as ambulances headed to the scene. The Israeli army said
in a statement that its forces "struck a Hamas command center from which
terrorists operated". The Israeli military "is operating against the
entrenchment" of the Palestinian militant group in Lebanon and will "continue to
act decisively against Hamas terrorists wherever they operate", it added. It
later claimed that the command center was embedded within the center of a
civilian-populated area, and "recently used by Hamas terrorists to plan &
prepare terror attacks against IDF troops and Israel—in violation of the
ceasefire understandings."Hamas rejected Israel's allegations as "flimsy
pretexts", saying the targeted building "belongs to the joint security force
charged with maintaining security and stability in the camp".
Israel Strikes Sites Across Lebanon Linked to Hamas and
Hezbollah
Israeli Air Raids in the Bekaa Valley
This is Beirut//February 20/2026
Israel struck sites across Lebanon on Friday near Sidon and in the Bekaa Valley,
targeting operatives and command centers linked to Hamas and Hezbollah.
A preliminary toll states that 17 have been killed across Lebanon.
Ain al-Hilweh Strikes
Israeli missiles have struck a site in the Ain al-Hilweh area of Sidon on Friday
where the Israeli army alleges a Hamas command center is located. Reports reveal
that 3 people have been killed in this offensive, and at least 12 have been
wounded.
Israel has deemed activity in the area as a “violation of the ceasefire
understandings between Israel and Lebanon” and a threat to Israeli security,
according to AFP. The IDF has carried out regular airstrikes throughout southern
Lebanon, mostly against Hezbollah-affiliated sites and operatives south of the
Litani River. However, Israel still strikes targets elsewhere in Lebanon,
including Friday’s attacks in Sidon.The Israeli military has stated that it will
operate decisively “against the entrenchment” of Palestinian militant groups
operating in Lebanon, including Hamas. On Sunday, Israel also targeted
Palestinian Islamic Jihad operatives along the Lebanon-Syria border last Sunday
which killed four people. Ain al-Hilweh is Lebanon’s largest Palestinian camp
and has been an area of Israel’s focus in targeting Hamas operations. Ain al-Hilweh
was previously struck in November 2025 which resulted in 13 deaths, one of the
most lethal attacks since November 2024.
Bekaa Valley Strikes
The Israeli Army also carried out six air raids on three buildings in the Bekaa
Valley on Friday evening near the Baalbek-Riyak road, killing 14 and wounding at
least 55. The targeted sites are located on the outskirts of Nabi Sheet near the
Lebanon-Syria border and the plain of Qasr Naba in the Baalbek district.
According to al-Hadath, the home of a Hezbollah commander in the Bekaa Valley
was targeted in Israel’s strikes. Additionally, the Israeli Army said that it
struck Hezbollah command centers. One of the deaths is reported to be the son of
Abu Salim Yaghi, a Hezbollah official and former member of Parliament. A
building near the al-Qard al-Hassan Foundation has reportedly collapsed from
being hit. Local reports state that the Riyak Hospital has seen an influx of
patients. An IDF statement commented that “we recently carried out a strike in
the Baalbek area on Hezbollah facilities that were being used to advance plans
against us.”Israeli Army spokesperson Avichay Adraee stated on X that “Hezbollah
systematically places its assets in the heart of civilian population centers,
contrary to agreements, with cynical exploitation of the population and using
them as human shields” in a comment on the Bekaa Valley strikes. “The Israel
Defense Forces will continue to work to eliminate any threat to the State of
Israel,” he added. While the Lebanese Army has been undergoing efforts to extend
its sovereignty over Lebanon’s periphery and establish a monopoly on arms,
Israel has accused it of being slow and inefficient at doing so, accusing
Hezbollah of rearming.
Lebanon’s Justice Minister Questions 1955 Anti-Israel Law,
Signals Shift in Official Discourse
This is Beirut/February 20/2026
Justice Minister Adel Nassar has opened the door to a sensitive national debate
by questioning the legacy and application of Lebanon’s 1955 law banning contacts
with Israel—legislation long treated as untouchable. Speaking about the
controversial statute, Nassar acknowledged that in past decades it had operated
in a political climate where it could be used as a tool of pressure against
activists and public figures. He stressed that a profound shift is underway and
that abusive applications of the law should no longer be tolerated, underscoring
the judiciary’s responsibility to safeguard freedoms rather than constrain
them.Adopted in 1955, amid rising regional tensions and in the absence of any
diplomatic framework with Israel, the law criminalized all forms of contact with
the Israeli state. Over time, however, critics argue that its scope expanded
beyond its original intent.
During periods of political strain, the legislation was frequently invoked
against journalists, researchers, and activists accused of “communication” or
“incitement,” sometimes on the basis of academic exchanges, public commentary,
or political analysis. Even when investigations did not lead to convictions, the
threat of prosecution often produced a chilling effect. The mere suspicion of
contact was sufficient to trigger legal action. Nassar’s remarks mark a rare
departure from the prevailing political consensus surrounding the law. By
publicly committing to prevent misuse and by framing the judiciary as a guardian
of liberties, the minister signaled that justice should not be instrumentalized
by political taboos rooted in another era. Yet beyond questions of enforcement
lies a broader issue: whether the law itself remains compatible with Lebanon’s
current realities.
In this context, some observers argue that continuing to rely on legislation
crafted more than seven decades ago reflects ideological reflexes rather than
strategic policymaking. The regional landscape has shifted considerably since
1955. Several Arab states have pursued normalization or dialogue with Israel,
reshaping diplomatic and security dynamics in the Middle East. Amid energy
cooperation, shifting alliances, and evolving geopolitical balances, Lebanon
cannot credibly claim to defend its interests while barring itself from even
contemplating the full range of diplomatic options available to it. Revisiting
or repealing the law, proponents argue, would not necessarily signal
renunciation of sovereignty or disregard for historical grievances. Rather, it
could open space for a transparent, nationally driven debate about Lebanon’s
long-term strategic options and national interests. History shows that nations
advance when they dare to revisit their dogmas. The next step, observers say,
rests with Parliament, legal experts, and civil society. Whether Lebanon is
prepared to confront one of its most sensitive legal taboos remains uncertain.
What is certain, however, is that a debate once considered unthinkable has now
entered the public arena. Lebanon has lived too long in fear, fragmentation, and
rigid postures. It may finally be time to replace a logic of automatic hostility
with a deliberate, sovereign policy oriented toward the future.
From fuel to VAT: Breaking down the rise in retail
prices
LBCI/February 20/2026
When consumers pay for a loaf of bread, they often assume the price reflects
only the product itself. However, the final cost includes a chain of expenses,
which explains why a 300,000 LBP increase in gasoline prices can affect food
prices.
The process begins at the port. A crane unloads the container from the ship,
after which a truck transports the goods for inspection. Another truck then
moves the goods from customs to the importer’s warehouse, and a further truck
delivers them from the warehouse to the supermarket.Each stage of this process
requires fuel, even before consumers use their own vehicles to purchase the
goods. While this logistical chain may appear extensive, its fuel-related cost
is not considered the most significant concern for importers. Importers are more
concerned about the increase in value-added tax (VAT) from 11% to 12%. VAT
applies not only to a wide range of goods but also to many of the services
involved in bringing products to consumers — commonly referred to as operating
expenses. As a result, VAT can be applied cumulatively across multiple stages of
the supply chain. Operating expenses include the various service and
transportation costs incurred in delivering goods from the port to retail
outlets, all of which become subject to VAT.
Transparency is not optional:’ PM Salam presses lawmakers
on public sector pay
LBCI/February 20/2026
Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said transparency is “a duty, not a choice,”
stressing that citizens cannot be asked to bear new burdens without being fully
informed, and that trust between the state and the public, damaged in the past,
will not be undermined again. Salam emphasized that the demands of military
personnel and public sector employees are legitimate and justified. He added
that the government sought to secure funding sources for salary increases to
avoid repeating the mistakes of the controversial salary scale crisis. He said
the Cabinet decided not to undertake any spending without first securing funding
sources, to prevent the country from sliding back into deficit and debt and
resorting to printing local currency, which would further weaken the exchange
rate. Salam noted that when the government chose to increase the value-added
tax, it took into account exemptions for essential food items, medicines,
medical and hospital expenses, university and school tuition, books, diesel,
household gas, residential rents, and other basic goods. He acknowledged
structural flaws in the tax system, saying they stem from decades of financial
policies that negatively affected low-income groups. He said the government is
working on a comprehensive fiscal policy based on tax reform, rationalizing
spending, and restructuring public debt. To prevent traders and monopolies from
exploiting the situation to raise prices, Salam said consumer protection
inspectors at the Economy Ministry have intensified inspections of supermarkets
and bakeries, and that violators will be referred to the judiciary. He added
that the government has improved tax collection and increased state revenues by
54% in one year, adding that revenues rose from $3.89 billion in 2024 to $6
billion in 2025. He stated that the increase was achieved not through new taxes,
but through better collection of existing taxes, improved enforcement, and
tighter control of borders and ports. He noted that revenues are expected to
rise further with the activation of scanners. He said the government has issued
collection orders exceeding $1 billion against quarry and crusher operators,
including influential figures, warning that those who fail to settle their dues
will face legal action to recover state funds. In the 2026 draft budget, Salam
expressed that expenditures were raised to $6 billion to cover health care,
education, salaries, and security. However, securing an additional $800 million
for wage increases will require new funding sources. He added that customs
enforcement measures have been implemented against evaders, who have been barred
from importing goods. The government will also complete a survey of maritime and
riverfront properties amid increased violations, and those who fail to pay what
they owe will face prosecution. Salam said he has presented all these facts to
the public and to members of parliament, telling lawmakers that if they have an
immediate alternative to secure $800 million, they should present it, or state
clearly that they do not support increasing public sector wages.He also said the
energy minister has announced the launch of a forensic audit at the ministry,
describing it as a first step that will extend to all ministries facing
allegations of wrongdoing.
Saudi ban not lifted, elections won’t happen, envoys
reportedly tell Hariri
Naharnet/February 20/2026
Al-Mustaqbal Movement leader ex-PM Saad Hariri returned Friday to the United
Arab Emirates after spending several days in Lebanon during which he delivered
the annual February 14 speech and met with a number of politicians and
ambassadors.
Hariri, who did not announce a decisive stance regarding participation in the
parliamentary elections, is waiting to know the exact date of the elections and
is “betting on time and on the continuation of the Arab and international
efforts and mediations to lift the Saudi ban on him,” al-Binaa newspaper
reported.
“Hariri sensed from some Arab and foreign ambassadors he met in recent days that
Saudi Arabia has not lifted the ban on him. He also understood that the
parliamentary elections will not take place on time,” informed sources told the
daily.
Netanyahu says Israel won't withdraw from 'buffer zones'
in Lebanon, Syria
Naharnet/February 20/2026
The Israeli military will not withdraw from the so-called “buffer zones” in
Lebanon and Syria, amid a shift in "Israel’s" security doctrine, which
stipulates the expansion of these "buffer" areas, Israeli Prime Minister
Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Thursday.
Speaking at a graduation ceremony for Israeli officers, Netanyahu declared that
“there is no longer a policy of containment,” signaling a more assertive
security stance.
Reform Ministry, UNESCO, and AUB launch youth policymaking
initiative
Naharnet/February 20/2026
The Ministry of State for Administrative Reform; the American University of
Beirut (AUB), through its Business Practice and Policy Initiative at the Suliman
S. Olayan School of Business; and the United Nations Educational, Scientific,
and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Regional Office in Beirut; announced Friday
the launch of Y-IMPACT—Youth Involvement in Multi-Level Policy and Community
Transformation. The event took place at the Grand Serail, under the patronage of
Dr. Nawaf Salam, president of the Council of Ministers in Lebanon, represented
by Dr. Fadi Makki, minister of state for administrative reform.Y-IMPACT is a
national initiative designed to strengthen the participation of young people in
governance and policymaking across Lebanon. The program engages Lebanese youth
in participatory policy dialogue, capacity-building activities, and the
development of youth-led policy recommendations to address key priorities in
local governance and community development.
Highlighting the importance of collaboration between young participants and
local authorities, the launch brought together national and local leaders,
including Kamal Abou Jaoude, governor of Bekaa, and Mansour Daou, governor of
South Lebanon. It also marked the participation of Lebanese youth from leading
academic institutions, including the American University of Beirut, the Lebanese
University, the Lebanese American University, and the Beirut Arab University,
reflecting the initiative’s inclusive and nationwide reach. Through interactive
workshops, panel discussions, and youth-led policy labs, Y-IMPACT equips
participants with the knowledge, tools, and practical experience needed to
contribute meaningfully to public policy at both local and national levels. The
initiative creates a structured platform for young people to engage directly
with policymakers, academic institutions, and international organizations,
bridging the gap between youth perspectives and public decision-making.
During the opening remarks, Dr. Yusuf Sidani, dean of the Suliman S. Olayan
School of Business at AUB, emphasized the importance of empowering youth as
active partners in shaping Lebanon’s future. Paolo Fontani, director of the
UNESCO Regional Office in Beirut, highlighted UNESCO’s commitment to supporting
youth engagement and inclusive governance. Dr. Fadi Makki, minister of state for
administrative reform, underscored the ministry’s vision of institutionalizing
youth participation as a core approach within the administrative reform process
and strengthening public institutions.
Dr. Neveen Ahmed, director of the Business Practice and Policy Initiative,
presented the initiative’s mission and vision, reaffirming its commitment to
connecting academic knowledge with public policy and national reform efforts.
The project was officially launched by Raghda Kawass, knowledge and public
policy specialist at the Business Practice and Policy Initiative, who introduced
Y-IMPACT’s objectives, structure, and national scope, emphasizing its role in
empowering young civic actors to move from dialogue to policy and become active
contributors to reform and community transformation.
The launch event also featured a panel discussion titled “From Local Challenges
to National Reform: Advancing Policy Transformation through Youth, Institutions,
and Academia,” moderated by Raghda Kawass. The panel brought together Dr. Fadi
Makki, minister of state for administrative reform; Dr. Fadi El-Jardali,
professor of policy and health systems and managing director and co-lead of the
Government Engagement Platform at AUB; Assem Abi Ali, Education Program
coordinator at UNESCO; and Dr. Simon Kachar, lecturer in political science and
founding and current director of the Good Governance and Citizenship Observatory
at AUB. The discussion highlighted the importance of collaboration between
youth, public institutions, and academia in advancing evidence-based reforms,
and emphasized the critical role of youth as active partners in shaping
responsive, inclusive, and sustainable public policies in Lebanon.
"Y-IMPACT represents a significant step toward strengthening inclusive
governance in Lebanon by institutionalizing the engagement of young stakeholders
and fostering a new generation of informed, skilled, and engaged leaders capable
of shaping sustainable public policies," the American University of Beirut said
in a statment it published Friday.
Quint mulling election postponement as power shift unlikely
Naharnet/February 20/2026
The ambassadors of the five-nation group -- consisting of the United States,
France, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Egypt, are seriously considering the
possibility of postponing the Lebanese parliamentary elections, al-Joumhouria
newspaper reported Friday. The daily said it has learned from a senior official
that the Quintet's ambassadors are mulling the postponement, amid confusion over
how the expatriates will participate, for political considerations unrelated to
the controversy surrounding the diaspora vote. The official told al-Joumhouria,
that the political reasons being discussed, to see if it is better to hold the
elections on time or postpone them, are whether the timely elections can make a
significant shift in power. The official said a two-year postponement is
possible but that it is still not clear in that case which party would propose
the extension, bearing in mind that all political parties except Amal and
Hezbollah prefer a delay. The Duo would benefit the most from holding the
elections on time, and Speaker Nabih Berri was the first to submit his
candidacy, followed by other candidates from his Amal movement.Nevertheless, the
postponement would not be possible without the approval of President Joseph Aoun,
the source said. Aoun, according to the daily, is keen on holding the elections
on time. Interior Minister Ahmad al-Hajjar had said that despite all the
confusion, the elections will be held on time after the elections decree was
published in the Official Gazette. Now, if the elections were to be postponed,
Parliament would have to pass a term-extension law. The major disagreement in
parliament is over how the diaspora would vote. The current law allocates six
specific seats for expats, but many parties -- led by the Lebanese Forces -- are
pushing to allow expats to vote for all 128 seats as they did in 2022. Some MPs
have already expressed skepticism about meeting the May deadline, citing the
need for electoral reforms or security concerns. Some officials have said that a
"technical" delay is possible to allow expats to vote in Lebanon during their
summer vacation. Berri, on the other hand, insists that elections will be held
on time, refusing any delay even a technical one.
Raad meets Berri, says Hezbollah keen on security and
stability
Naharnet/February 20/2026
The head of Hezbollah’s parliamentary bloc MP Mohammad Raad met Friday with
Speaker Nabih Berri in Ain el-Tineh, accompanied by a delegation from the
Loyalty to Resistance bloc. “We are keen on Lebanon’s security and stability and
the normalcy of life in it, and we are also keen on confronting Israeli
occupation so that it leaves our land and our people return to their villages
and cities,” Raad said after the meeting.“We discussed the local and regional
affairs and the viewpoints were totally identical,” Raad added, saying he agreed
with Berri that Hezbollah and the Amal Movement should be “the platform that
lays the foundations of national unity to confront all challenges and threats.”
Pro-Berri candidate nominates himself for 'District 16'
Naharnet/February 20/2026
In a step reflecting a possible new escalation related to the electoral clash,
Speaker Nabih Berri has decided to push Abbas Fawaz, the ex-head of the World
Lebanese Cultural Union, to nominate himself for the newly-introduced and
controversial 16th electoral district in the upcoming parliamentary elections,
media reports said. According to reports, the Free Patriotic Movement might also
file nominations for District 16, which is dedicated to expats, and might file
appeals against the electoral process should the Interior Ministry reject the
nominations. As Lebanon prepares for the May parliamentary elections, it is
still not clear if and how the expatriates will participate. Interior Minister
Ahmad al-Hajjar said that despite all the confusion, the elections will be held
on time. In 2018 and 2022, expats voted abroad for the 128 parliamentary seats.
While the law stipulates that expats should vote for six new seats reserved for
the diaspora, that provision was suspended in 2018 and 2022. Hezbollah, the Amal
Movement, and the FPM currently want the expats to vote for these 6 new seats
instead of voting for all 128 MPs. Hezbollah and Amal argue that they do not
enjoy the same campaigning freedom that other parties enjoy abroad. The Lebanese
Forces, the Kataeb party and the Change MPs want the law amended to allow expats
to vote for all 128 MPs. Sixty-five MPs, constituting a parliamentary majority,
demanded to amend the law in order to allow expats to vote for all 128 seats but
Berri refused to discuss the amendment in parliament. He insisted that expat
elections should be held according to the current six-seat rule.Hajjar said that
in order to elect according to six-seat rule, executive decrees are needed, with
the approval of a two-thirds Cabinet majority.
These decrees have not been issued, but Hajjar says he can't stand idly by and
wait for the legal texts. "There are deadlines that must be respected," he told
al-Joumhouria newspaper. Expats are supposed to vote on May 1 and May 3, but
even the interior minister himself does not know if they can vote from abroad,
or if they should come to Lebanon to vote -- the option that Speaker Berri is
insisting on.Hajjar said, "Give us a law or an amendment, and I am ready to
implement it," but added that he cannot wait and be held accountable for
obstructing the elections. "There are legal deadlines and the elections will be
held on time," he vowed. Lebanon is divided geographically into 15 electoral
districts. The expats law created a new virtual district for the Lebanese
diaspora, a 16th district.Berri said Friday he is committed to holding the
parliamentary elections on time. "It is not acceptable, at a start of a new era,
to obstruct or delay the most important constitutional juncture," he said.
Israeli operations in Lebanon against Hezbollah:
February 9–15, 2026
David Daoud/FDD's Long War Journal/February 20/2026
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) conducted numerous operations throughout Lebanon
against Hezbollah between February 9 and February 15, 2026. Israeli activities
last week maintained the reduced intensity of previous weeks and consisted
largely of policing activity along the Israel-Lebanon frontier. However, they
also included targeting Hezbollah operatives and assets deeper into
Lebanon—mostly concentrated in south Lebanon, north and south of the Litani
River. One strike targeted a Syria-Lebanon border crossing.
The IDF conducted operations in 27 Lebanese locales, some of them more than
once. These activities included:
Airstrikes: Eight
Artillery missions: 10
Detonations: Three
Drone strikes: Four
Flares: One
Ground activities: 10
Mortar missions: Two
Quadcopter activities: 14
Map instructions: Click the top-left icon or an icon on the map to open the Map
Key and adjust the map’s zoom as desired. Click the top-right icon to open a
larger version of the map.
Beqaa Governorate
Zahle District: Majdal Anjar-Al Masnaa
Nabatieh Governorate
Bint Jbeil District: Aitaroun, Aitaroun-Blida, Beit Lif, Blida, Ayta Ash Shaab,
Kounine-Tiri, and Yaroun
Hasbaya District: Habbariyeh and Halta
Marjayoun District: Al Amra, Blida, Deir Mimas, Houla, Kfar Kela, Markaba, Meiss
al Jabal, and Sarda
Nabatieh District: Houmine Al Fawqa and Mleeta
South Lebanon Governorate
Jezzine District: Buslaya, Mlikh, Mt. Rihan, Safi, and Sujod
Tyre District: Alma Al Shaab, Naqoura, and Yanouh
Casualties
Between February 9 and 15, Israeli operations in Lebanon killed nine people,
including three Hezbollah operatives and another three alleged Palestinian
Islamic Jihad operatives, and wounded one unidentified individual.
February 9, 2026: Two Hezbollah operatives, one Lebanese officer, and the
officer’s three-year-old son were killed.
February 10, 2026: One alleged shepherd was wounded.
February 11, 2026: No casualties were reported.
February 12, 2026: One Hezbollah operative was killed.
February 13, 2026: No casualties were reported.
February 14, 2026: No casualties were reported.
February 15, 2026: One Syrian national and three unidentified Palestinians who
were possibly Palestinian Islamic Jihad operatives were killed.
Chronology of Israeli operations against Hezbollah, February 9–15, 2026
February 9
NNA Lebanon reported that at 4:00 am, an Israeli patrol entered Habbariyeh in
the Nabatieh Governorate’s Hasbaya district and arrested Atwi Awti, an Islamic
Group official and the former mayor of Habbariyeh. The IDF released a statement
saying, “Following intelligence indications gathered in recent weeks, IDF
soldiers conducted a targeted raid on a structure in the Har Dov area and
apprehended a senior terrorist from the Jamaa Islamiya [Islamic Group] terrorist
organization. The terrorist was apprehended and then transferred for further
questioning in Israeli territory. Additionally, weapons were located in the same
structure in which the terrorist was apprehended. Throughout the war, the Jamaa
Islamiya terrorist organization advanced terror attacks against the State of
Israel and its civilians in the north.”
At 8:51 am, NNA Lebanon reported that an Israeli drone targeted a vehicle in
Yanouh in the South Lebanon Governorate’s Tyre District. The strike killed one
person, reported as Ahmad Ali Salameh, and wounded Internal Security Forces
officer Hassan Ali Jaber and his three-year-old son Ali, both of whom had been
passing through the area and soon succumbed to their wounds. The IDF released a
statement saying, “A short while ago, in response to Hezbollah’s repeated
violations of the ceasefire understandings, the IDF struck a Hezbollah terrorist
in the Yanouh-Jat area in southern Lebanon.” Hezbollah-affiliated social media
later announced the death of Hezbollah operative Ahmad Ali Salami, whose nom de
guerre was Jibril, from Yanouh. The IDF released another statement that said,
“Earlier today (Monday), the IDF struck in the area of Yanouh and eliminated the
terrorist Ahmad Ali Salami, who served as Hezbollah’s Head of Artillery in the
area of Yanouh. The terrorist carried out numerous terror attacks throughout the
war against IDF troops and the State of Israel, and recently operated to
rehabilitate the artillery capabilities of the terrorist organization from
within the civilian population in Lebanon. The IDF is aware of the claim that
uninvolved civilians were killed. Prior to the strike, steps were taken to
mitigate harm to civilians, including the use of precise munitions and aerial
surveillance. The IDF regrets any harm to uninvolved civilians and operates to
minimize harm as much as possible. The incident is under review. The terrorist’s
activities constituted a violation of the ceasefire understandings between
Israel and Lebanon.”
Death announcements for Hassan Jaber (Left) and Ahmad Ali Salami (Right). (NNA
Lebanon and Balagh Media on Telegram)
At 9:23 am, NNALebanon reported that Israeli forces fired two mortar rounds at
the Sheqqah area on the outskirts of Aitaroun in the Nabatieh Governorate’s Bint
Jbeil District.
At 12:05 pm, NNA Lebanon reported that an Israeli quadcopter dropped a stun
explosive on Kfar Kela in the Nabatieh Governorate’s Marjayoun District while
directing gunfire toward the town.
At 12:29 pm, NNA Lebanon reported that an Israeli quadcopter, flying at a low
altitude, approached alleged farmers in the area of Sarda and Al Amra in the
Nabatieh Governorate’s Marjayoun District, and requested they leave the area.
At 2:54 pm, NNA Lebanon reported that an Israeli quadcopter dropped two stun
explosives toward one of the neighborhoods of Ayta Ash Shaab in the Nabatieh
Governorate’s Bint Jbeil District.
At 3:18 pm, NNA Lebanon reported that an Israeli quadcopter dropped a stun
explosive in Kfar Kela.
At 3:22 pm, NNA Lebanon reported that an Israeli quadcopter dropped stun
explosives near two young men who were located in Ayta Ash Shaab’s cemetery.
Later, an IDF sniper positioned inside Israel targeted an individual while he
was near the municipality building of Ayta Ash Shaab, one kilometer away from
the Israeli position. The individual was wounded and transferred to Martyr Salah
Ghandour Hospital in Bint Jbeil and appears to have succumbed to his wounds
despite earlier reports that his condition was stable. Hezbollah-affiliated
social media later announced the death of Hezbollah operative Abdullah Khalil
Nasser, whose nom de guerre was Jihad, from Ayta Ash Shaab. Hezbollah gave
Nasser a military funeral in his hometown. The IDF released a statement that
said, “Following intelligence indications gathered in recent months, 300th
Brigade forces commanded by the 91st Division eliminated a Hezbollah terrorist
in the Ayta ash-Shaab area in southern Lebanon. Recently, the terrorist was
involved in gathering intelligence on IDF troops and operated to rehabilitate
Hezbollah’s terrorist infrastructure in southern Lebanon. The terrorist’s
activities constituted a violation of the ceasefire understandings between
Israel and Lebanon. The IDF will continue to operate to remove any threat
against the State of Israel and to prevent the establishment of Hezbollah
terrorists in the border area.” Israeli quadcopters then dropped a fifth stun
explosive in Ayta Ash Shaab.
Death announcement for Abdallah Khalil Nasser. (Balagh Media Telegram)
February 10
At 8:34 am, NNA Lebanon reported that an Israeli quadcopter dropped a stun
explosive in Ayta Ash Shaab in the Nabatieh Governorate’s Bint Jbeil District.
Meanwhile, IDF troops positioned inside Israeli territory fired two mortar
shells on Halta’s heights, near Arqoub, in the Nabatieh Governorate’s Hasbaya
District.
At 5:35 pm, NNA Lebanon reported that an Israeli quadcopter dropped a stun
explosive near an alleged shepherd from the Mansour family in Aitaroun in the
Nabatieh Governorate’s Bint Jbeil District. The incident lightly wounded the
shepherd.
At 5:42 pm, NNA Lebanon reported that Israeli artillery fired one shell at the
Mateit area on the outskirts of Aitaroun, igniting fires in the area. Meanwhile,
Israeli artillery fired several shells on the Shiyyar area between Aitaroun and
Blida.
At 9:56 pm, NNA Lebanon reported that an Israeli quadcopter dropped a stun
explosive in the Maaqib neighborhood, east of Houla, in the Nabatieh
Governorate’s Marjayoun District.
At 10:40 pm, NNA Lebanon reported that Israeli artillery positioned inside
Israel fired an artillery shell toward the Sbeih neighborhood on Houla’s eastern
outskirts.
February 11
NNA Lebanon reported that, overnight, an Israeli quadcopter dropped explosives
on a home in Blida in the Nabatieh Governorate’s Marjayoun District, leading to
the evacuation of its inhabitants, after which an Israeli patrol entered the
area and detonated the residence.
At 11:18 am, NNA Lebanon reported that Israeli quadcopters dropped four stun
explosives near the cemetery of Ayta Ash Shaab in the Nabatieh Governorate’s
Bint Jbeil District, while Israeli artillery fired a shell into the town square.
At 12:55 pm, NNA Lebanon reported that Israeli quadcopters dropped five stun
explosives near the cemetery in Ayta Ash Shaab as preparations were being made
for the funeral of Hezbollah operative Abdallah Nasser, while artillery fired
two shells near the town square. Additionally, locals alleged that an Israeli
patrol entered the outskirts of Ayta Ash Shaab from the side of Tallat Shawat.
Afterward, a Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) patrol arrived in the area at the
request of the locals to accompany and secure Nasser’s funeral.
February 12
At 8:37 am, NNA Lebanon reported that an Israeli patrol entered the Nooriyeh
neighborhood of Kfar Kela in the Nabatieh Governorate’s Marjayoun District and
detonated a home. Another Israeli patrol detonated two homes on the outskirts of
Adaisseh, toward Wadi Hounine.
At 11:27 am, NNA Lebanon reported that Israeli artillery targeted Yaroun in the
Nabatieh Governorate’s Bint Jbeil District, directly striking and destroying two
homes in the Old Town.
At 3:50 pm, NNA Lebanon reported that Israeli artillery targeted the
surroundings of Tel Aziyeh near Deir Mimas in the Nabatieh Governorate’s
Marjayoun District.
At 5:16 pm, NNA Lebanon reported that Israeli forces directed machine-gun fire
toward the forested areas of Labbouneh, near the outskirts of Alma Al Shaab, in
the South Lebanon Governorate’s Tyre District.
At 8:23 pm, NNA Lebanonreported that Israeli artillery fired two shells toward
the outskirts of Markaba in the Nabatieh Governorate’s Marjayoun District, while
Israeli forces fired flares over Naqoura in the South Lebanon Governorate’s Tyre
District.
At 11:04 pm, NNA Lebanon reported that an Israeli drone targeted a vehicle with
three missiles at the junction of Kounine-Tiri in the Nabatieh Governorate’s
Bint Jbeil District. The strike killed one person, reported by NNA Lebanon as
“the national Mahdi Hassaan Shaito, who had been wounded in the previous war on
the south.” The IDF released a statement saying it had “targeted a Hezbollah
operative near Tiri in south Lebanon.” Hezbollah-affiliated social media later
announced the death of Hezbollah operative Mahdi Hassaan Shaito, whose nom de
guerre was Sajjad al Tiri, from Tiri. The IDF released a subsequent statement
claiming that Shaito was “involved in restoring Hezbollah’s military
infrastructure near Tiri in south Lebanon […] in violation of the understandings
between Israel and Lebanon.”
Death announcement for Mahdi Hassaan Shaito. (Balagh Media on Telegram)
February 13
At 9:53 am, NNA Lebanon reported that IDF troops positioned inside Israeli
territory directed machine-gun fire toward Aitaroun and Blida in the Nabatieh
Governorate’s Bint Jbeil District.
At 11:08 am, NNA Lebanon reported that Israeli artillery fired several shells
toward the outskirts of Beit Lif in the Nabatieh Governorate’s Bint Jbeil
District.
At 11:39 am, NNA Lebanon reported an Israeli quadcopter dropped two stun
explosives toward Ayta Ash Shaab in the Nabatieh Governorate’s Bint Jbeil
District.
At 12:18 pm, NNA Lebanon reported that Israeli artillery targeted the area of
Wadi Muzlem, on the outskirts of Beit Lif, in the Nabatieh Governorate’s Bint
Jbeil District with five artillery shells. Meanwhile, Israeli forces directed
machine-gun fire toward Yaroun in the Nabatieh Governorate’s Bint Jbeil
District.
February 14
At 10:14 pm, the IDF released a statement saying that it was targeting Hezbollah
infrastructure in southern Lebanon.
NNA Lebanon reported that at 10:15 pm, several Israeli airstrikes targeted the
area of Al Hamila on the outskirts of Houmine al Fawqa in the Nabatieh
Governorate’s Nabatieh District.
At 10:44 pm, NNA Lebanon reported that Israeli airstrikes targeted Buslaya,
Mlikh, the heights of Mount Rihan, and the outskirts of Sujod in the South
Lebanon Governorate’s Jezzine District.
At 10:49 pm, NNA Lebanon reported that an Israeli quadcopter dropped four
fragmentation explosives on an uninhabited home “in an attempt to destroy it” in
the Kasayer neighborhood, east of Meiss Al Jabal, in the Nabatieh Governorate’s
Marjayoun District.
February 15
NNA Lebanon reported that shortly past midnight, several Israeli airstrikes
targeted the outskirts of Mleeta in the Nabatieh Governorate’s Nabatieh District
and Safi and the outskirts of Sujod in the South Lebanon Governorate’s Jezzine
District. At 12:07 am, the IDF released a statement saying that it had just
targeted weapons storage facilities and launchers belonging to Hezbollah, while
noting that “Hezbollah is continuing its efforts to restore its terror
infrastructure in south Lebanon […] in violation of the understandings between
Israel and Lebanon.”
At 12:01 pm, NNA Lebanon reported that a mechanized Israeli patrol comprised of
two vehicles approached the barrier fence with Lebanon. Several IDF troops
dismounted and crossed the Blue Line into Lebanese territory for a short time in
the Barrier–Darb al Hawrat area in the Nabatieh Governorate’s Marjayoun
District, before withdrawing to the Israeli side of the frontier fence.
At 5:26 pm, NNA Lebanon reported that Israeli artillery intermittently targeted
the Shalala area in the Nabatieh Governorate’s Bint Jbeil District. Meanwhile,
IDF troops positioned inside Israeli territory directed machine-gun fire toward
the outskirts of Aitaroun.
At 10:04 pm, NNA Lebanon reported that an Israeli drone targeted a vehicle on
the Syria-Lebanon border between Al Masna in the Beqaa Governorate’s Zahle
District and Yabous. The strike killed four people, including a Syrian national
named Khaled Mohammad Al Ahmad, who was allegedly a taxi driver for the other
three occupants, who were reportedly Palestinians. As of the time of this
writing, the individuals’ identities have not been confirmed, reportedly because
their bodies had been badly burned by the airstrikes. The IDF released a
statement saying that it had targeted “terrorists belonging to Palestinian
Islamic Jihad near Majdal Anjar,” which is in the Beqaa Governorate’s Zahle
District.
The Latest English LCCC Miscellaneous Reports
And News published
on February
20-21/2026
Video-Link to an interview from Fox News with USA Senator Ted
Cruz: We’re at an ‘extraordinary moment’
Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, predicts the outcome of tension with the Iranian regime
on ‘Hannity.’
https://eliasbejjaninews.com/2026/02/152356/
February 20/2026
In his interview on Hannity, Senator Ted Cruz describes the current geopolitical
climate as an “extraordinary moment” in history, drawing parallels between the
present day and the fall of the Berlin Wall [00:16].
Key points from Senator Cruz’s Interview
1. Potential Collapse of Adversarial Regimes
A “Consequential Shift”: Cruz predicts that within the next six months, the
regimes in Iran, Venezuela, and Cuba could all fall [00:23].
Regional Impacts: He argues that toppling the Iranian “Mullahs” would be a
massive win for the Iranian people, Middle Eastern stability, and U.S. national
security [01:31].
2. U.S. Policy Toward Iran
No Nuclear Deal: Cruz asserts there is no viable nuclear deal to be made because
the Ayatollah is a “liar” who only seeks time to rebuild his “teetering” regime
[02:34].
The Ultimatum: He suggests the only negotiation left is whether the Iranian
leadership will leave voluntarily (taking their wealth with them) or be forcibly
removed [02:15].
Military Action: Cruz praises President Trump’s decision to use B-2 bombers
against Iran’s nuclear facilities, calling it the most important national
security decision of the first term [05:33].
3. The “Trump Doctrine” vs. Isolationism
Neither Isolationist nor Interventionist: Cruz clarifies that Trump is not an
isolationist, but he also opposes “forever wars” and ground invasions [05:14].
Peace Through Strength: He emphasizes that the U.S. military’s
actions—specifically the apprehension of Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela—have
terrified global dictators and adversaries like Putin and Xi Jinping [06:02].
4. Historical Parallels
Manuel Noriega & Nicolás Maduro: Cruz compares the current situation to the 1989
removal of Manuel Noriega in Panama. He notes that Maduro was given the same
choice to leave peacefully, refused, and was subsequently apprehended by Delta
Force on January 3rd [03:07]. He warns the Ayatollah that he faces the same
choice: leave or be removed [04:46].
Watch the full interview here: Sen Cruz: We’re at an ‘extraordinary moment’
Trump Gives Iran 15 Days to
Make a Deal or Face Action
This is Beirut/February 20/2026
President Donald Trump said Thursday that Iran had at most 15 days to make a
deal on concerns starting with its nuclear program, suggesting the United States
would attack if it did not. “We’re either going to get a deal or it’s going to
be unfortunate for them,” Trump told reporters on Air Force One. Asked about his
timeline, Trump said, “I would think that would be enough time – 10, 15 days,
pretty much maximum.”Trump has repeatedly threatened military action against
Iran, at first over a deadly crackdown on anti-regime protesters last month that
killed thousands, then more recently over its nuclear program. But he has
refrained from setting a hard deadline for taking action. Recalling the U.S.
strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities in June, President Donald Trump said at
Thursday’s Board of Peace meeting that Washington may “have to take it a step
further — or we may not,” adding that “maybe we’re going to make a deal” and
that a decision could come “over the next, probably 10 days.”“You can’t have
peace in the Middle East if they have a nuclear weapon,” he emphasized.
Israel Bolsters Defense Readiness
For its part, Israel is preparing for a hypothetical scenario in which Iran may
attack Israel first amid the ongoing tensions between Tehran and the United
States, the Kan public broadcaster reported. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu
issued his own warning to Iran, saying, “If the ayatollahs make a mistake and
attack us, they will receive a response they cannot even imagine.”Preparations
have largely focused on the military’s air defense array, attack plans,
intelligence, and the Home Front Command, according to the IDF.Iran Warns U.S.
Assets in the Region Could Become ‘Legitimate Targets’ Iran reiterated its
threats against American bases in the Middle East in the event of an attack, in
a letter sent Thursday to the UN Secretary-General. “In the event that Iran is
subjected to military aggression, it will respond decisively and proportionately
in accordance with the principles of self-defense enshrined in Article 51 of the
United Nations Charter,” the Iranian ambassador to the UN wrote in a letter
addressed to António Guterres. “In such circumstances, all American bases,
infrastructure, and assets in the region would constitute legitimate targets,”
he added. The letter cited a Feb. 18 social media post by U.S. President Donald
Trump that was described as "an explicit public threat of the use of force"
against Iran, referencing the potential use of military facilities in Diego
Garcia and the RAF Fairford base in England.
Trump on Iran Strikes: ‘I Am Considering It’
This is Beirut/February 20/2026
President Donald Trump stated that he is weighing military action in Iran during
the Governors breakfast on Friday. When asked whether he is considering a
limited strike on Iran, he said “I think I can say that I am considering
it.”According to Reuters, the U.S. military positioning necessary for carrying
out strikes in Iran is mostly in place. The USS Gerald Ford aircraft carrier
entered into the Mediterranean basin on Friday being repositioned from the
Caribbean where it was stationed during the January U.S. operations in
Venezuela. The vessel will likely be stationed in the Eastern Mediterranean and
is the second US carrier to be placed in the Middle East. Earlier this week,
over 50 U.S. combat aircraft were moved to the Middle East as well as part of
the broader buildup. The accumulation of U.S. assets in the region is the
largest since the buildup to the 2003 U.S. invasion of Iraq, demonstrating that
U.S. officials remain serious about the option of military action. What is
unknown is what the extent of U.S. operations in Iran would entail, whether it
targets specific individuals, pushes for regime change, or attacks key military,
nuclear, and strategic sites.
Iran Says Draft Nuclear Plan to be Ready in 'Next Two, Three Days'
This is Beirut/February 20/2026
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran is preparing to submit a
draft proposal for a nuclear agreement to the United States within days,
signaling a potential diplomatic opening after President Donald Trump warned of
possible military action if talks fail. In an interview Friday on MSNBC,
Araghchi said the proposed framework would soon be shared with Washington. “The
next step for me is to present a draft of a possible deal to my counterparts in
the U.S. I believe that in the next two or three days, that would be ready, and
after final confirmation by my superiors, that would be handed over to Steve
Witkoff,” Araghchi said, referring to the U.S. envoy representing Washington in
the talks. The Iranian minister disclosed that neither side has called for a
complete halt to uranium enrichment. “The American side has not requested a
complete halt to enrichment, nor have we proposed suspending it,” he said,
suggesting that negotiations are centered on guarantees regarding the peaceful
nature of Iran’s nuclear activities. Araghchi reiterated that diplomacy remains
the only viable path forward. “The only way to resolve the issue of our nuclear
program and to ensure that it remains peaceful is through negotiation and a
diplomatic solution,” he said, adding that “there is no military solution to our
nuclear program.”In reference to last June’s 12-day confrontation, he argued
that previous large-scale attacks had failed to eliminate Iran’s nuclear
capabilities. “What we are discussing is how to ensure that the Iranian nuclear
program, including enrichment, is peaceful and remains peaceful forever, in
exchange for Iran taking confidence-building measures and the lifting of
sanctions,” he said. While stressing that Tehran does not consider the American
people its enemy, Araghchi criticized what he described as hostile U.S. policies
toward Iran. “The only solution is diplomacy; this is why the United States has
returned to the negotiating table and is seeking to reach an agreement,” he
said. He also underscored that Iran’s nuclear program was developed
domestically, asserting that the country is “fully prepared for peace and
diplomacy” while remaining ready to defend itself. Earlier, Trump urged Tehran
to strike what he called a “viable deal” within a limited timeframe, warning
that Iran has “between 10 and 15 days at most to reach an agreement.”The renewed
diplomatic exchanges come amid heightened regional tensions, as Iran has also
reiterated threats against U.S. bases in the Middle East should it come under
attack.
U.S. Announced Plans to Reopen Embassy in Damascus, Syria
This is Beirut/February 20/2026
U.S. officials have announced on Friday that the U.S. plans to reopen its
embassy in Damascus for the first time in 14 years, according to AP News. The
Trump administration told congress that they plan to initiate a phased approach
towards the resumption of embassy operations in Syria, with plans slated to
begin soon. However, there is no released timeline on when U.S. officials will
operate out of the embassy on a full-time basis. According to al-Jadeed news,
Trump stated that “the situation in Syria is improving, and the president is
treating the Kurds well.”The Syrian government took control of northeastern
Syria in January through a series of violent clashes with the Syrian Democratic
Forces, and the process of integrating SDF members into the country. The U.S.
implicitly supported Damascus over the SDF in the clashes, with officials
stating a position that the SDF was no longer a necessary partner in U.S.
operations in the region. The U.S. instead shifted towards a position of
supporting a stable and united Syria as a means to ensure its security
interests. The U.S. also announced this week that it would withdraw all of its
remaining troops from Syria and has been in the process of handing over U.S.
bases to Syrian authorities including al-Tanf near the Syria-Jordan-Iraq
tri-point border and the al-Shaddadi base in northeastern Syria. The integration
of northeastern Syria into the Syrian state marks the near-unification of the
country, with only portions of Suwayda remaining outside of Damascus’ authority.
During the Syrian Civil War, the U.S. maintained a close relationship with the
Kurdish-led SDF as military and counterterrorism partners against the
proliferation of the Islamic State in the 2010s. This alliance rose out of an
incapable and adversarial Bashar al-Assad government in Damascus. With the new
Ahmed al-Sharaa regime, Syria has exchanged counterterrorism intelligence with
the U.S., joined the U.S.-led coalition against ISIS in November 2025, and
cracks down on cells of non-state armed groups in the country, including those
affiliated with Hezbollah and the Islamic State. The embassy reopening
announcement comes as the Trump administration has continued to deepen relations
with Damascus, becoming partners in security and counterterrorism.
Hamas Says Political Path for Gaza Must Begin With End to 'Aggression'
This is Beirut/February 20/2026
Discussions on Gaza's future must begin with a total halt to Israeli
"aggression", Palestinian Islamist movement Hamas said after US President Donald
Trump's Board of Peace met for the first time. "Any political process or any
arrangement under discussion concerning the Gaza Strip and the future of our
Palestinian people must start with the total halt of aggression, the lifting of
the blockade, and the guarantee of our people's legitimate national rights,
first and foremost their right to freedom and self-determination," Hamas said in
a statement Thursday. Trump's board met for its inaugural session in Washington
on Thursday, with a number of countries pledging money and personnel to rebuild
the Palestinian territory, more than four months into a fragile ceasefire
between Israel and Hamas. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has insisted
however that Hamas must disarm before any reconstruction begins. "We agreed with
our ally the US that there will be no reconstruction of Gaza before the
demilitarisation of Gaza," Netanyahu said. The Israeli leader did not attend the
Washington meeting but was represented by his foreign minister Gideon Saar.
Trump said several countries, mostly in the Gulf, had pledged more than seven
billion dollars to rebuild the territory. Muslim-majority Indonesia will take a
deputy commander role in a nascent International Stabilisation Force, the unit's
American chief Major General Jasper Jeffers said. Trump, whose plan for Gaza was
endorsed by the UN Security Council in November, also said five countries had
committed to providing troops, including Morocco, Kazakhstan, Kosovo and
Albania. AFP
Israel Army Says on 'Defensive Alert' Regarding Iran but no Change to Public
Guidelines
This is Beirut/February 20/2026
The Israeli army said it was on "defensive alert" as the United States threatens
potential military action against Iran, but insisted there were no changes in
its guidelines for the public."We are closely monitoring regional developments
and are aware of the public discourse concerning Iran. The (Israeli military) is
on defensive alert," army spokesman Brigadier General Effie Defrin said in a
video statement published Friday. "Our eyes are wide open in all directions, and
our finger is more than ever on the trigger in response to any change in the
operational reality," he added, but emphasised "there is no change in the
instructions".
Hamas Says Open to Gaza Peacekeeping Force, But Rejects
Interference in 'Internal Affairs'
This is Beirut/February 20/2026
Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem told AFP on Friday that the Palestinian Islamist
movement was open to international peacekeeping forces in Gaza, but rejected any
interference in the territory's "internal affairs".At the inaugural meeting of
US President Donald Trump's "Board of Peace" in Washington on Thursday, it was
announced that a handful of countries would commit troops to a nascent
International Stabilization Force (ISF) for Gaza. Morocco announced it was ready
to send police as well as soldiers to the ISF, while the force's American
commander, Major General Jasper Jeffers, said that Albania, Indonesia,
Kazakhstan and Kosovo were also committing troops. "Our position on
international forces is clear," Hamas spokesman Qassem told AFP. "We want
peacekeeping forces that monitor the ceasefire, ensure its implementation, and
act as a buffer between the occupation army and our people in the Gaza Strip,
without interfering in Gaza's internal affairs." The ISF aims to have 20,000
soldiers, as well as a new police force. Indonesia has said it is ready to send
up to 8,000 troops. Nickolay Mladenov, named high representative for Gaza by the
United States, announced at the Board of Peace meeting the beginning of
recruitment for a post-Hamas police force in Gaza. "Training Palestinian police
forces within their national framework is not a problem if it is aimed at
maintaining internal security in the Strip and confronting the chaos that the
occupation and its militias seek to create," Qassem added. The Board of Peace
was established after the Trump administration, with longtime mediators Qatar
and Egypt, negotiated a ceasefire in October to halt two years of devastating
war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. AFP
Hamas retakes control of daily life in Gaza
AFP/February 20, 2026
GAZA CITY, Palestinian Territories: Hamas has reasserted control over large
parts of Gaza from which the Israeli military withdrew under the US-sponsored
ceasefire, exercising power through police and working to restart public
administration. The inaugural meeting of US President Donald Trump’s “Board of
Peace” on Thursday included an announcement on the recruitment of a new
transitional Palestinian police force in Gaza meant to take over security from
Palestinian Islamist movement Hamas. It also saw several countries pledge to
send troops for the nascent International Stabilization Force in the Gaza Strip,
without any timetable set. Hamas still refuses to lay down its arms under the
conditions set by Israel, but it has pledged to hand over power, insisting it no
longer wants to administer the territory it seized by force nearly 20 years ago.
“Everyone knows that Hamas possesses the real power in Gaza,” said Jaber Shaaban,
a displaced Palestinian living in a tent in Gaza City. “Hamas is the strongest
and largest organized entity and it has power, police and a government,” the
64-year-old added. “Without Hamas, the committee cannot work,” he said,
referring to the 15-member Palestinian technocratic committee formed to handle
day-to-day governance of Gaza. Since a ceasefire between Hamas and Israel began
on October 10, Gaza has been divided by a so-called “Yellow Line” beyond which
Israeli forces are stationed and which leaves the military in control of just
over half of the territory. “Currently, we operate only in areas under Hamas
control,” said Abu Ashraf Barbah, a merchant who before the war supplied food
items across the territory of more than two million Palestinians. “The Hamas
ministry is the one that deals with traders and controls the markets, while the
Hamas police carry out campaigns against tax evaders,” he added. The
newly-formed Palestinian technocratic body is primarily mandated to oversee
civilian services such as health, education and municipal affairs.
- In the markets, on the streets -
Phase two of Trump’s Gaza ceasefire plan, which the UN Security Council endorsed
in November, stipulates that Hamas should disarm and the Strip’s day-to-day
governance be handed over to the technocratic committee. But Israeli officials
say Hamas still has around 20,000 fighters in Gaza and several thousand
rockets.The return to some form of public order is one of the challenges of the
second phase, which the United States launched last month. Concrete results have
been slow to materialize.While waiting for the transitional authority to take
shape, Gaza’s existing police force — which answers to Hamas authorities — has
returned to the streets since the ceasefire took effect. AFP journalists
reported that uniformed, armed police have deployed at major intersections,
hospital entrances and government buildings, directing traffic and regulating
markets. With many police stations destroyed during Israeli air strikes, some
units have resumed operations from temporary tents, residents said. For traders,
Hamas’s influence is most visible.“The one controlling everything in Gaza’s
economy is Hamas,” said 41-year-old merchant Samir Abu Adnan. “Hamas has started
collecting taxes, the ministry of economy publishes daily price lists, and the
police and ministries are still affiliated with Hamas,” he said.Several traders
confirmed to AFP that civil servants were collecting taxes in markets and shops,
relying on police enforcement in cases of non-compliance.
‘Hamas controls the levers’ -
In rare testimony to the media, a police captain in Gaza City told AFP that the
force would maintain law and order regardless of who formally governs the
territory. “We are a police force that carries out the government’s
instructions,” the 44-year-old officer said, declining to be identified for
security reasons. “We do not care who will be in the political leadership of the
government,” he added.“What matters to me is that the incoming government is not
affiliated with the occupation,” he said, referring to Israel. “If the committee
takes over Gaza, we will help it.”But there is uncertainty over how the
transitional technocratic committee would be deployed in the territory and what
would happen to the current police force. Amani Ashtiwi, a teacher living in a
tent in central Gaza, said the committee would need “very strong support from
the Palestinian Authority, Egypt and America to be able to govern Gaza.”“The
committee faces a long and difficult road because Hamas controls the levers of
life in Gaza,” Ashtiwi added. For merchant Abu Adnan, Hamas still “holds the
power.”“If the committee takes over, it will need Hamas’s approval for every
decision,” he said.
Israeli Druze Leader Says Syrian Community 'Besieged'
Months After Clashes
This is Beirut/February 20/2026
Seven months after deadly clashes between Syria's Druze minority and
government‑backed forces, the spiritual leader of Druze in neighbouring Israel
said members of the community across the border remained in peril."They're still
besieged -- completely encircled. They aren't allowed to bring in any
humanitarian aid, including the aid we're trying to deliver," Sheikh Mowafaq
Tarif told AFP in an interview this week. The cleric spoke in Julis, a quiet
Druze village in northern Israel, where the community has set up an "emergency
room" to coordinate aid efforts for Druze in Syria. Israeli and Druze flags hang
on the walls of the room, alongside posters in Hebrew and Arabic calling for an
end to the killing of Syrian Druze. The Druze are followers of an esoteric
religion that split from Shiite Islam centuries ago. Its adherents are spread
across parts of Syria, Israel, Lebanon and the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights.
Clashes erupted last July in southern Syria between Druze fighters and Sunni
Bedouin tribes. The Syrian authorities said their forces intervened to stop the
clashes, but witnesses and monitors accused them of siding with the Bedouin.
Israel bombed Syria during the violence, saying it was acting to defend the
minority group.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the fighting left more than 2,000
people dead, including 789 Druze civilians who were "summarily executed by
defence and interior ministry personnel".The UN Office for the Coordination of
Humanitarian Affairs estimated that some 187,000 people were displaced by the
violence.
‘Why not let them return?’
"There are still more than 120,000 people displaced from their homes," Sheikh
Tarif said. "Thirty‑eight villages have been captured, and residents aren't
allowed to return. There are more than 300 captives, including children and
women." AFP was unable to verify those claims. Although a ceasefire was reached
in July, access to Sweida remains difficult. Residents accuse the government of
imposing a blockade on the province, which Damascus denies. Several aid convoys
have entered since then."Why not let them return to their villages? We're in the
depths of winter and that is a mountainous area. It's very cold," Tarif said.
With Syria's government and Kurdish-led forces agreeing last month to integrate
Kurdish fighters and civil institutions into state structures, Sweida is the
last major area outside Damascus's control. Tarif said the community did not
need government security forces in the region. "The Druze have forces capable of
defending themselves and maintaining order," he said, referring to Syrian
government forces as jihadists and "Islamic State members". Many in Syria remain
wary of Sharaa, given that the jihadist group he once led started out as an
Al-Qaeda affiliate and many of its former members are in his government.
Israel's leaders have repeatedly referenced Sharaa's jihadist past in calling
for the West not to legitimise him. Nevertheless, Israel and Syria, which have
no official diplomatic ties, have held several rounds of direct talks in recent
months. Following negotiations in January, and under US pressure, both sides
agreed to set up an intelligence‑sharing mechanism as they moved toward a
security agreement. One issue under discussion is the possibility of Syrian
Druze working in Israel. Sheikh Tarif confirmed "that is something we have
heard" and added that he wished any Syrian could come to work as a daily
labourer "because the (economic) situation in Syria is very difficult". He also
called for Druze across the Middle East to be able to visit their religious
sites in neighbouring countries, "just as our Christian and Muslim brothers
visit their holy places" in states with which they may not have diplomatic
relations. "The Druze also deserve to access and pray at our holy sites in Syria
and Lebanon and for them to come visit our holy places" in Israel, he said. AFP
Syria welcomes Canada’s decision to amend sanctions
SANA/February 20, 2026
DAMSCUS: Syria’s Central Bank governor, Abdulkader Husarieh, commended the
Canadian government’s decision to amend the sanctions imposed on Damascus under
the Special Economic Measures Regulations, including the lifting of the
comprehensive economic embargo in place since May 2011. In a post published on
his personal Facebook page, Husarieh described the move as an important
milestone that reinforces the implementation of understandings reached during
his recent visit to Canada. He added that the amendment provides an opportunity
to boost economic relations and activate cooperation between Canadian and Syrian
banks and financial institutions. Husarieh said the decision could pave the way
for Canadian participation in Syria’s reconstruction and infrastructure
development. Meanwhile, the Syrian Arab Red Crescent and the Turkish Red
Crescent signed cooperation agreements on Friday to strengthen humanitarian
efforts in Syria amid ongoing crises and economic hardship. Syrian Arab Red
Crescent President Hazem Bakleh met in Damascus with Alper Kucuk, the Turkish
Red Crescent’s director general for international affairs and migration
services, to discuss rising humanitarian needs and ways to enhance coordination
in support of vulnerable communities.According to a statement released by the
Syrian organization, the agreement provides for expanding relief and service
activities. It includes support for the construction of a new Red Crescent
branch headquarters in Idlib province and the launch of a project to distribute
hot meals and bread in Damascus and Aleppo during the holy month of Ramadan. The
Syrian Arab Red Crescent has sought to broaden partnerships with regional and
international organizations in recent years to strengthen its operational
capacity across multiple provinces, as the country continues to face economic
strain and humanitarian challenges affecting large segments of the population.
The Latest
LCCC analysis & editorials from miscellaneous
sources published
on February
20-21/2026
Beyond disarming Hamas, Trump’s Board of Peace must deradicalize Gaza as well
Mark Dubowitz and Ben Cohen/New York Post/February 20/2026
President Donald Trump convened his Board of Peace on Thursday, announcing new
commitments to fund Gaza’s reconstruction and provide troops for a Gaza
stabilization force. But so far, everyone’s avoided an essential question: How
will future generations of Palestinian children be raised and educated — and
will they again be indoctrinated with radical hatred of Jews and Israel?
If so, then the president’s vision of Gaza as a “deradicalized, terror-free zone
that does not pose a threat to its neighbors” will remain a pipe dream.
Many of the Hamas terrorists who stormed into Israel on Oct. 7, 2023 — murdering
families, raping women, burning homes, kidnapping civilians — were raised on a
steady diet of hatred. As children, they watched a Hamas-produced TV show hosted
by a Mickey Mouse knockoff named Farfour, who preached jihad and urged the
killing of Jews. Broadcast on Hamas’ Al-Aqsa TV from 2007 to 2009, “Tomorrow’s
Pioneers” resembled a grotesque parody of “Sesame Street.”
Surrounded by smiling children, Farfour vowed to “liberate Jerusalem from the
criminal Zionists,” repeatedly exhorting: “Kill! Kill! Kill!”
Another character, a talking bee named Nahoul, echoed the same genocidal themes,
ranting about “the filth of the criminal Jews.”
In one infamous episode, children sang hymns to martyrdom while hurling darts at
a Star of David. These are only two examples. The broader Palestinian education
system has long been suffused with similar incitement.
That reality helps explain not only the barbarism of Oct. 7, but also why
hundreds of Gaza civilians joined the rampage and many more celebrated in the
streets.
The most urgent question now is not reconstruction or security arrangements.
It’s whether the machinery of radicalization that produced Hamas will finally be
dismantled.
If it is not, a return to war is inevitable.
That requires uprooting the Islamist ideology that glorifies death, demonizes
Jews and sanctifies terror — much as the Allies purged Nazism from Germany after
World War II. Without such a process, no political framework, peacekeeping force
or aid package can deliver lasting stability. Yet no serious deradicalization
plan has emerged. Backed by Qatar and Turkey, Hamas is maneuvering to preserve
its power, refusing to disarm while seeking to integrate its fighters into
future security forces.
As long as Hamas remains embedded in Gaza’s institutions, Palestinian children
will continue to be indoctrinated to hate and kill Jews — in schools, on screens
and at home. The problem extends beyond Hamas. Even the Palestinian Authority’s
revised Gaza curriculum remains steeped in antisemitic conspiracy theories and
incitement.
Textbooks portray Jews as global manipulators, deny Jewish history and reject
Israel’s legitimacy. If Trump wants peace in Gaza to endure, he must act on the
most critical element of his own vision.He should establish a Deradicalization
Commission through the Board of Peace, charged with dismantling the entire
infrastructure of hate.
Its mandate should include scrubbing school materials and children’s programming
of antisemitic incitement, ending the glorification of jihad, eliminating
content that advocates Israel’s destruction and replacing ideological dogma with
education that encourages critical thinking. This is not about erasing
Palestinian identity. It is about teaching the next generation to resolve
disputes through politics and compromise.
Much of Gaza’s educational infrastructure is administered by the United Nations
through the United Nations Relief and Works Agency, which has long been
complicit in radicalization. The IDF has discovered that numerous UNRWA
employees were also Hamas members, including some who committed acts of terror.
This agency must be dismantled.Regional partners can help. The United Arab
Emirates has demonstrated real expertise in countering Islamist radicalization —
reforming curricula, regulating religious discourse, dismantling extremist
networks and promoting tolerance.
By contrast, Qatar and Turkey actively undermine deradicalization. Both provide
political cover, financial support and media platforms for Hamas while fueling
antisemitic propaganda that legitimizes terror.
As long as Doha and Ankara shield Hamas, they remain part of the problem.
Defeating Hamas militarily is necessary but insufficient. Even after it is
dismantled, the ideas that fueled it will persist unless confronted directly.
The surge of antisemitism across Western democracies over the past two decades
shows how resilient and contagious this hatred can be.A Deradicalization
Commission would ensure that peace in Gaza is not merely the absence of war, but
the foundation for a different future — one in which children grow up learning
to build rather than destroy.
Without it, Gaza will remain what Hamas made it: a factory of terror, endlessly
recycling tragedy and atrocity.
**Mark Dubowitz is chief executive of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies,
where Ben Cohen is a research fellow.
https://nypost.com/2026/02/19/opinion/disarming-hamas-wont-be-enough-trumps-board-of-peace-must-also-deradicalize-gaza/
Read in New York Post
Iran’s Khamenei Invites Conflict, Not Compromise
Janatan Sayeh and Behnam Ben Taleblu/FDD/February 20/2026
Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei doubled down on threats against the U.S. while
denigrating President Donald Trump in a February 17 speech. Speaking on the same
day that top Iranian officials concluded talks with U.S. negotiators in Geneva,
Khamenei flatly ruled out abandoning uranium enrichment. He also dismissed U.S.
demands that Tehran’s ballistic missile program and support for terrorist
proxies be included in the negotiations.
As Iran’s most important decision-maker, Khamenei’s resolute adherence to both
his revolutionary ideology and political red lines is likely a more accurate
barometer to judge the status of the talks than the cautious optimism Iranian
diplomats are proffering.
Although hostility from the Islamic Republic is nothing new, Khamenei’s
apocalyptic tone amid a major U.S. military build-up in the region is
significant, as is his invocation of historic Shiite religious figures who chose
martyrdom over negotiation and accommodation.
Despite the intense military and diplomatic pressure from the U.S. following the
most violently repressed protest movement in contemporary Iranian history,
Khamenei appears unmovable. Nor does he appear to be reaching for the “poisoned
chalice” of compromise pursued in 1988 by his predecessor — the Islamic
Republic’s founder, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini — to end the eight-year war with
Iraq.
From ‘Heroic Flexibility’ to ‘Martyrdom’
Khamenei’s latest speech highlighted Imam Hussein — the grandson of the Prophet
Muhammad and third Imam of Shiism described as “the master of martyrs.” Hussein
is revered in Shiite political culture for refusing to pledge allegiance to a
corrupt ruling Caliph before he was killed in an uprising that Shiites continue
to commemorate. Khamenei specifically emphasized Hussein’s uncompromising nature
and drew a parallel to the present, declaring that his regime would never
surrender or “pledge allegiance” to “the corrupt rulers of the U.S.”
Khamenei’s remarks sharply contrast with the analogies he drew during previous
rounds of negotiations in 2013 and 2014 over Iran’s nuclear program. Then, he
framed participation in the talks as “heroic flexibility,” citing Hassan,
brother of Hussein, who accepted a truce with the Caliph to preserve his life.
Khamenei’s shift from elevating tactical compromise to glorifying defiance
leaves little room for him to back down.
Regime Officials Threaten Regional War
Khamenei warned Washington it “know[s] what future awaits them if they make a
mistake,” having already threatened earlier this month that a regional war will
erupt if Iran is attacked.
As Khamenei spoke, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also warned that the
regime’s response to any U.S. strike against Iran “will not be confined to its
borders.” That same day, Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy Commander
Alireza Tangsiri stated that, if tasked, he was prepared to close the Strait of
Hormuz, through which 20 percent of the world’s oil supply travels.
IRGC media circulated an infographic threatening numerous U.S. military
installations, while officials have reportedly warned they would strike U.S.
embassies in the region.
‘You Will Not Be Able To Do It’: Khamenei’s Jabs at Trump
Khamenei’s speech personally targeted Trump, portraying him as unpopular.
Referring to Trump’s own remark that, “For 47 years America has not been able to
eliminate the Islamic Republic,” Khamenei responded, “You will not be able to do
it.” The statement echoed Khomeini’s infamous remark during the 1979 hostage
crisis at the U.S. Embassy in Tehran, when he mocked that “America can’t do a
damn thing.”
In January, Khamenei called Trump a “criminal” for backing Iranian protests,
sharing a post likening the American president to Pharaoh, the Quran’s
archetypal tyrant. The rhetoric reflects a regime posture that has extended
beyond words, moving from death threats on social media to foiled assassination
plots and fatwas issued by regime clerics against the president’s life.
There is little purpose in Trump negotiating with a regime that has placed a
bounty on his head and remains wedded to its bombastic rhetoric and policies.
The Islamic Republic may still be negotiating, but only as a tactic to buy time
for a regime that is close to collapse.
https://www.fdd.org/analysis/2026/02/19/irans-khamenei-invites-conflict-not-compromise/
**Janatan Sayeh is a research analyst at the Foundation for Defense of
Democracies (FDD), where Behnam Ben Taleblu is senior director of the Iran
Program and a senior fellow. For more analysis from the authors and FDD, please
subscribe HERE. Follow Janatan and Behnam on X @JanatanSayeh and @therealBehnamBT.
Follow FDD on X @FDD and @FDD_Iran. FDD is a Washington, DC-based, nonpartisan
research institute focusing on national security and foreign policy.
Gaza’s New Police Force Must Exclude Hamas
Ahmad Sharawi/FDD/February 20/2026
“There will be 5,000 Palestinian police officers deployed in Gaza,” declared Ali
Shaath, chairman of the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG),
during a Board of Peace meeting on February 19. On the same day, the NCAG posted
an announcement to recruit “qualified candidates for a professional,
accountable, transparent, and merit-based transitional police force in Gaza.” To
join the NCAG’s police force, applicants must meet three conditions: be Gaza
residents between the ages of 18 and 35, have no criminal record, and
demonstrate good physical fitness.
The announcement does not address whether past or present membership in Hamas or
similar organizations would disqualify the applicants. This omission is
troubling given reports that Hamas is seeking to integrate its estimated 10,000
police officers into the NCAG’s force. If Hamas can influence or even control
the transitional police force, the NCAG’s ability to govern may be seriously
compromised.
Hamas Operates Repressive Police Force
Outside its military wing, the Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades, Hamas has for
decades operated a police force under its Ministry of Interior, which created
Gaza’s security apparatus following the terrorist group’s violent takeover of
the coastal enclave in 2007. Hamas has frequently used the force to arrest
political dissidents and commit human rights abuses against local Gazans who
defy the terrorist group. During the post-October 7 war between Israel and
Hamas, Jerusalem targeted members of its leadership for their alleged role in
planning terrorist attacks against Israel.
Without Hamas Disarmament, NCAG Cannot Govern Effectively
The NCAG’s mandate to administer Gaza, facilitate humanitarian aid, and oversee
reconstruction cannot succeed without a credible plan to disarm Hamas. Even if
the NCAG’s proposed police force ultimately excludes Hamas members, there is no
indication that it would confront Hamas militarily. Hamas continues to be the
most powerful armed faction in Gaza, and any intra-Palestinian clash would
likely strengthen its hand rather than weaken it, allowing it to further
entrench its control.
Disarmament of Hamas must precede any discussions of a technocratic governorate
or reconstruction projects in Gaza. Absent that, the enclave risks repeating the
same failed cycle of receiving international funds while Hamas retains its
weapons, as was the case historically in Hamas’s previous wars with Israel.
The U.S. Must Pressure Hamas’s Enablers To Secure Disarmament
The United States must ensure that the NCAG does not incorporate Hamas or other
terrorist affiliates into its police force, and the NCAG should require this
explicitly in all recruitment criteria. The NCAG must establish a rigorous
vetting mechanism, conducted in coordination with the United States and Israel,
to prevent such an infiltration.At the same time, Washington should press
Hamas’s external backers on the Board of Peace, especially Qatar and Turkey, to
secure the unconditional disarmament of Hamas and the dismantlement of its
security apparatus. Without these steps, Gaza risks the emergence of a parallel
armed structure that would undermine any new governing authority from the
outset. *Ahmad Sharawi is a senior research analyst at the Foundation for
Defense of Democracies (FDD). For more analysis from Ahmad and FDD, please
subscribe HERE. Follow Ahmad on X @AhmadA_Sharawi. Follow FDD on X @FDD. FDD is
a Washington, DC-based, nonpartisan research institute focusing on national
security and foreign policy.
Trump Is Allowing China to Take Over Critical U.S. Tech
Gordon G. Chang/Gatestone Institute/February 20/2026
The U.S. Department of Commerce has decided to allow American data centers to
buy Chinese equipment, thereby permitting Beijing to steal as much as it wants
and perhaps remotely control or take down these critical facilities. Moreover,
Commerce recently has not implemented a number of other obviously needed
restrictions on Chinese technology and Chinese companies.In general, Commerce
has shifted its tech-security efforts away from China. Reuters states that late
last year "leadership instructed staffers in the office charged with policing
foreign tech threats to 'focus on Iran and Russia.'" Last month, Commerce
replaced the head of this office with a political appointee. Similarly, last
year the administration did not, as it was contemplating, place critical export
controls on software.
Trade-surplus countries, such as China, have little ammunition in trade wars.
They are the ones with everything — their surpluses — to lose. Trump should
remember that the next time he refuses to keep out China's Trojan Horse products
and services, such as the internet services above.
The U.S. Department of Commerce has decided to allow American data centers to
buy Chinese equipment, thereby permitting Beijing to steal as much as it wants
and perhaps remotely control or take down these critical facilities. Commerce
has also decided not to impose a ban on the U.S. operations of Chinese
state-owned China Telecom.
The U.S. Department of Commerce has decided to allow American data centers to
buy Chinese equipment, thereby permitting Beijing to steal as much as it wants
and perhaps remotely control or take down these critical facilities. Moreover,
Commerce recently has not implemented a number of other obviously needed
restrictions on Chinese technology and Chinese companies.
The Trump administration's effort to protect American infrastructure from China
has collapsed. It now appears Beijing has a veto on American tech policy.
On February 12th, Reuters reported the Trump administration "has shelved a
number of key tech security measures aimed at Beijing."
The Commerce Department, in addition to not barring Chinese equipment from data
centers, has decided not to impose a ban on the U.S. operations of Chinese
state-owned China Telecom.
Other measures, the news site noted, that have been put on hold include a
proposed ban on the internet businesses of two Chinese giants, China Unicom and
China Mobile. Moreover, the administration will not prohibit Chinese electric
trucks and buses from U.S. roads.
In general, Commerce has shifted its tech-security efforts away from China.
Reuters states that late last year "leadership instructed staffers in the office
charged with policing foreign tech threats to 'focus on Iran and Russia.'" Last
month, Commerce replaced the head of this office with a political appointee.
Similarly, last year the administration did not, as it was contemplating, place
critical export controls on software.
The Commerce Department says it is using its authority to "address national
security risks from foreign technology, and we will continue to do so."
Commerce, as many report, is following President Donald Trump's apparent orders
to go easy on China.
"At a moment when we are desperately trying to remove ourselves from Beijing's
leverage over rare-earth supply chains, it is ironic that we're actually letting
Beijing acquire new areas of leverage over the U.S. economy—in telecoms
infrastructure, in data centers and AI, and EVs," said Matt Pottinger, deputy
national security advisor during Trump's first term, to Reuters.
As a result of the administration's inaction, America's data centers could
become "remotely controlled islands of Chinese digital sovereignty," according
to David Feith, who served in both Trump administrations. The administration, he
says, is building "strategic vulnerabilities into our AI and energy backbone."
There is no secret why this is happening. Trump does not want to rile Chinese
leader Xi Jinping before his coveted April summit in Beijing.
More important, Beijing has weaponized its position in a critical supply chain.
"The United States today is in a supplicant position to the People's Republic of
China because the Chinese have fixated on dominating the strategic resource
bottlenecks of the global economy, specifically in rare earth mineral
resources," said Brandon Weichert, senior national security editor at
19FortyFive.com, to Gatestone. "So long as modern technology relies upon these
resources—and China continues to dominate them—the United States government will
accommodate Beijing at all costs."
There are two solutions to reduce this critical vulnerability. First is to end
China's near-monopoly in rare earths. As Weichert says of America's failure to
protect its technology, "This trend will continue until Congress and the
Pentagon and Wall Street wake up, realize the old globalized system is dead, and
embrace a Manhattan Project for securing rare earth minerals of our own." To the
president's credit, his administration has embarked on such a project with
multiple initiatives. For instance, Trump is moving at "Trump speed" in signing
rare-earth deals with others, most notably the $8.5 billion pact inked October
20 when Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese visited the White House, the
agreements with Thailand and Malaysia signed October 26, and the one in Japan
two days later. The G-7 announced a production alliance on October 31.
Moreover, America is working on technologies, such as those being developed at
the University of Texas at Austin, that "increase domestic supply and decrease
reliance on costly imports." James Tour and Shichen Xu of Rice University are
working on recycling.
These new methods could crack Beijing's firm hold on processing: China processes
92% of the global output of these minerals.
Because of these and other developments, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent could
say late last year that China's leverage would last no more than 24 months.
The second solution involves hitting the Chinese regime harder. China has never
been more trade-dependent in its history. Xi's only viable plan to rescue a
quickly faltering economy is to export more, so he is critically reliant on the
American market.
American consumers account for about 34% of global household consumption. In
2024, America accounted for 29.8% of China's merchandise trade surplus of $992.2
billion. Last year, this almost certainly declined — China's exports to the U.S.
fell 25.2% during the first 11 months — but China's reliance on America is still
so large that its economy could not survive without the profits from American
trade.
Trade-surplus countries, such as China, have little ammunition in trade wars.
They are the ones with everything — their surpluses — to lose. Trump should
remember that the next time he refuses to keep out China's Trojan Horse products
and services, such as the internet services above.
Trump does not have to allow Chinese penetration of the critical infrastructure
of this century. He just needs to play the high cards.
Gordon G. Chang is the author of Plan Red: China's Project to Destroy America, a
Gatestone Institute distinguished senior fellow, and a member of its Advisory
Board.
*Follow Gordon G. Chang on X (formerly Twitter)
https://www.gatestoneinstitute.org/22288/china-take-over-us-tech
© 2026 Gatestone Institute. All rights reserved. The articles printed here do
not necessarily reflect the views of the Editors or of Gatestone Institute. No
part of the Gatestone website or any of its contents may be reproduced, copied
or modified, without the prior written consent of Gatestone Institute.
The real story behind the Saudi–UAE rift
Ali Shihabi/Arab News/February 20,
2026
Many Western commentators, unable to resist a complicated explanation for a
simple problem, have offered a whole menu of theories for the recent
Saudi-Emirati tensions. Some make for a neat story. Most miss the point. The
strain between Riyadh and Abu Dhabi is simply rooted in national security.
Specifically, it stems from the UAE’s conduct in Yemen and Sudan, which Saudi
officials increasingly view as destabilizing and directly threatening the
Kingdom. Online sniping and narrative warfare may raise the temperature, but
they are symptoms. The cause is the strategic impact of policies in two conflict
zones where Saudi Arabia bears the greatest exposure.
That is why the many framings of this rift get it wrong. Riyadh’s concern is not
where a consulting firm places its regional office, nor is it a desire to
“downsize” the UAE in regional politics. The issue is whether a close partner is
widening security risks on Saudi Arabia’s periphery while still benefiting from
the optics of Gulf unity.
Riyadh has prioritized Yemeni stability
Start with Yemen. Saudi Arabia and the UAE entered the conflict in 2015 to
restore the internationally recognized government and prevent Yemen from
collapsing into a hostile militia state on the Kingdom’s southern border. Yemen
is not a distant theater for Riyadh. A failed Yemeni state means porous borders,
weapons proliferation, criminal networks, and permanent openings for hostile
actors in Saudi Arabia’s backyard. Over time, the coalition’s unity frayed over
the end-state. Riyadh has prioritized Yemeni stability under a single,
internationally recognized central government able to control territory and
secure borders. The UAE, by contrast, cultivated close relationships with
powerful southern forces whose objectives have often been to weaken that
government’s authority and entrench fragmentation.
For Saudi Arabia, this is the difference between a Yemen that can police its
territory and a patchwork of militias with competing sponsors and shifting
loyalties, an ecosystem that rewards keeping the state weak. Saudi Arabia can
live with tactical and commercial differences with the UAE. What it cannot
accept is a partner empowering local actors whose incentives are to keep Yemen
fragmented, weak, and perpetually negotiable.
For the Kingdom, security has to come first
Sudan, across the Red Sea from the Kingdom, presents a parallel concern.
Instability there spills into the Red Sea basin and the Horn of Africa, regions
Saudi Arabia considers part of its strategic depth. A fractured Sudan threatens
maritime security along one of the world’s most important corridors and pulls
neighboring states into a widening zone of disorder. Events on the ground have
sharpened these fears. The rebel Rapid Support Forces’ campaign culminating in
the fall of El-Fasher was accompanied by atrocities that a UN Human Rights
Office report said may amount to war crimes and possible crimes against
humanity. The report urged influential states to help stop weapons transfers
that could enable further abuses. The core issue is whether Sudan returns to a
viable state or normalizes militia rule, and militia rule is a contagion. Human
rights groups and investigative reporting have alleged that external backing has
helped sustain the RSF, including allegations of Emirati support, which the UAE
denies. Reuters has reported claims that a secret training camp in Ethiopia
prepared RSF fighters and that the UAE financed and supported activity linked to
that effort. Abu Dhabi also rejected those allegations. Saudi policymakers do
not need certainty about every claim to see the strategic risk: A militia
supplied well enough to fight indefinitely will keep Sudan broken, and a broken
Sudan destabilizes the Red Sea neighborhood. From Riyadh’s perspective, Yemen
and Sudan are not side theaters. They are front lines of a Saudi approach that
favors strengthening states over empowering militias and building regional order
over proxy politics. The rift is not ideological. Saudi Arabia and the UAE
remain aligned on many broad objectives, including countering extremism,
modernization, diversification, and strong ties with Western partners. The
dispute is about methods, and about whether commitments in shared security
arenas are real or merely situational.
That distinction changes the prognosis. If the rift were about ideology or
economics, it would imply prolonged structural competition. But if it is rooted
in Yemen and Sudan, it is solvable, provided Abu Dhabi treats Saudi security
sensitivities with the seriousness they deserve. The path back is clear. In
Yemen, it requires genuine alignment around a shared end-state: empowering the
internationally recognized government, ending unilateral support to local armed
actors that undermines state authority and deepens fragmentation, and pursuing a
credible political track to address the question of South Yemen’s future status.
In Sudan, it requires convergence behind a ceasefire and a political process
that strengthens central government institutions rather than rewarding militia
rule, alongside serious, verifiable steps to halt arms flows and logistics that
prolong the civil war. The Saudi-UAE relationship has weathered disagreements
before, and it can do so again. But clarity about the cause is essential. This
is not a battle over business districts or diplomatic ties. It is a test of
whether Gulf partnerships are anchored in shared security outcomes. For Saudi
Arabia, security has to come first.
**Ali Shihabi is an author and commentator on the politics and economics of
Saudi Arabia. X: @aliShihabi
History can teach us how to make Gaza ceasefire work
Daoud Kuttab/Arab News/February 20, 2026
The US-sponsored ceasefire for Gaza was approved by the UN Security Council
three months ago, yet the killing has not stopped. Since the truce supposedly
began in October, at least 586 Palestinians have been killed and more than 1,000
have been injured. In Gaza, the “peace” looks remarkably like the war that
preceded it, with civilians still caught in the crossfire and a humanitarian
catastrophe deepening by the day. If Thursday’s Board of Peace meeting is to be
anything more than a symbolic gesture, members must work on moving from a sham
truce to a genuine cessation of hostilities. One way to find a solution is to
look at previous ceasefires that actually worked. History shows us that a
ceasefire is not merely a pause in shooting; it is a technically complex
agreement that requires specific pillars to remain standing. The most successful
ceasefires share two key ingredients: robust, neutral monitoring with clear,
reciprocal obligations and a parallel political process that can give people
hope. When those elements are absent, as they are today, the stronger party
inevitably dictates the terms on the ground and the agreement collapses at the
hands of a powerful occupier that is not genuinely interested in a cessation of
violence.
The monitoring vacuum in Gaza is perhaps the greatest catalyst for failure.
Israel has barred foreign journalists and international observers from the
Strip. The International Stabilization Force envisioned in US President Donald
Trump’s 20-point plan remains a phantom. Without boots on the ground from
neutral parties — the kind of monitors that stabilized the Sinai after 1979 or
the Balkans in the 1990s — a ceasefire is just a piece of paper. Israel has even
vetoed the inclusion of Turkish and Qatari troops, insisting instead on a force
that will do what its own military could not: the total and immediate
disarmament of Hamas. To make this ceasefire work, the US must end the Israeli
veto on monitors and deploy a multinational force with a clear mandate to verify
violations and report them directly to the UNSC.
The International Stabilization Force envisioned in Trump’s 20-point plan
remains a phantom
Beyond monitoring, a ceasefire needs a functioning civilian alternative to the
chaos of war. For weeks, 14 Palestinian men and one woman have been waiting in
Egypt for Israeli permission to enter Gaza. This National Committee for the
Administration of Gaza is composed of non-Hamas technocrats, chosen by the US
team in coordination with all parties. Yet they remain stranded while Israel
reportedly objects to trivialities like the committee’s logo. By preventing a
vetted civilian government from taking root, the status quo ensures that Hamas
remains the only governing power in Gaza, which in turn justifies continued
Israeli military operations. A firm decision is needed: the committee must be
seated in Gaza immediately, with the full backing of the international
community, to manage reconstruction and restore basic services.
Furthermore, a ceasefire only holds when it is linked to a credible political
horizon. Previous successful truces were never an end result; they were the
first phase of a larger political settlement. The promise of “Palestinian
self-determination” cannot remain a footnote in the 20-point plan. While
Washington’s focus has drifted toward Iran in recent weeks, the reality is that
the toxicity of the Middle East cannot be drained so long as Gaza is left to
fester. The Board of Peace must reestablish a “credible pathway to statehood,”
as recognized by the UN, and give the Palestinian people a reason to invest in
the calm.Previous successful truces were never an end result; they were the
first phase of a larger political settlement
Finally, we must address the humanitarian death by a thousand cuts that
undermines the truce. Israel has refused to allow prefabricated homes for those
in tents and has restricted the entry of the heavy equipment needed to recover
the thousands of bodies still trapped under the rubble. A ceasefire that secures
the release of Israelis but leaves the Palestinian population to freeze and
starve is not a peace plan. True success requires the full lifting of the siege
and unconditional entry of aid, as required by international humanitarian law.
Thursday’s summit is the last chance to prove that the current peace framework
is a roadmap, not a headstone. The 15 technocrats in Egypt are ready. The
reconstruction funds are pledged. All that is missing is the political will to
enforce the basic requirements of the truce. We must learn from the past: peace
is not kept by silence but by the active presence of monitors, the empowerment
of civilian leaders and the promise of a future beyond war, occupation, siege
and attempts at displacement.
**Daoud Kuttab is an award-winning Palestinian journalist and former Ferris
Professor of Journalism at Princeton University. He is the author of “State of
Palestine Now: Practical and Logical Arguments for the Best Way to Bring Peace
to the Middle East.” X: @daoudkuttab
Europe, the world’s underappreciated superpower
Nadia Calvino/Arab News/February 20, 2026
If there is one key takeaway from last weekend’s Munich Security Conference, it
is a message of trust and confidence in Europe. The EU is a technology, trade
and industry powerhouse. Around Europe, the signs of this strength abound: off
the northern coast of Poland, just beyond the horizon, 233 giant turbines — each
almost as tall as the Eiffel Tower — are about to rise from the sea floor. With
German rotors, foundations designed in Denmark and cables from Poland and
Greece, they will be towering symbols of European manufacturing excellence and
industrial might. As the latest additions to an already vast Baltic fleet, they
are creating thousands of jobs across the supply chain; and when they are
operational, they will supply an additional 5.5 million households with clean
energy.
Producing energy made in Europe, by Europe, for Europe, Poland’s offshore wind
farms are as important strategically as they are economically. They add to a
buildout of clean power that is happening across the continent, from Italy in
the south to Ireland and Lithuania in the north. Cables and interconnectors —
enough to wrap the Earth many times over — are being laid to link the windy
northern seas with the sunlit Mediterranean coastline, creating a superhighway
for the age of electrons.
Meanwhile, cutting-edge fiber optic sensors pioneered by Dutch innovators will
be watching over the seabed to protect Europe’s critical infrastructure. New
constellations of satellites developed in Belgium will offer enhanced
surveillance capabilities from space, alongside cutting-edge radar systems from
France and Spain. And all these systems will be connected by artificial
intelligence-powered 6G networks developed in Finland.Something that many
thought impossible is already happening — Europe is irreversibly weaning itself
off Russian gas
These are just a few of the nearly 900 investment projects financed by the
European Investment Bank Group last year alone. By leveraging EU budget
guarantees to mobilize private investment, the EIB Group is powering the
unfolding energy and technological revolutions. The transition into tomorrow’s
world is already in full swing in Europe — a major development that remains
overlooked amid rapid geopolitical change. In fact, the overall investment in
the EU’s energy transition reached a new record in 2025, approaching €400
billion ($455 billion) — from hydropower in Austria to new railways in Czechia
and from energy efficiency upgrades by small businesses in Croatia to clean
technologies deployed by heavy industries in Portugal. Just in the past year,
the combined market capitalization of European renewables companies has risen by
more than 50 percent. Something that many thought impossible in the near term is
already happening — Europe is irreversibly weaning itself off Russian gas.
European investments in defense are increasing even more rapidly. European
defense stocks have tripled in value in the past three years. Europe’s
industrial production capacity now exceeds even that of the US in critical
areas, including artillery shells. Europe is moving by leaps and bounds into
strategic sectors and technologies such as drones. A new venture capital
ecosystem geared toward pioneering security and defense enterprises has emerged
almost overnight and essentially from scratch.
We have seen a similar mobilization before. In 2020, no one expected that a
European biotech company would pioneer a vaccine against an unknown virus in a
matter of months, helping the world put down a once-in-a-century pandemic. Nor
did anyone think that European leaders would launch a massive recovery and
resilience program financed by joint debt — an unprecedented show of solidarity
and unity. When Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine caused a massive spike
in energy prices, everyone assumed that the European economy would buckle.
Instead, the eurozone’s gross domestic product grew faster than those of China
and the US that year.
Ours is a society based on inclusion, equality of opportunity, intellectual
freedom, peace and the rule of law
In the face of trade warfare, intense market volatility and shifting traditional
partnerships and alliances, European companies have proven resilient, not only
diversifying their trade flows but also maintaining strong growth and
investment. European stock markets ended up outperforming US exchanges in 2025,
rewarding investors who put their trust in our economy. Unemployment is hovering
near record lows and growth is picking up — thanks to high-performing countries
such as Spain and Poland. Europe has emerged as a beacon of stability in an
uncertain world.
Time and again, the EU has adapted and reinvented itself in the face of crises,
leaving it well prepared to navigate a tempestuous geopolitical environment. An
export powerhouse, the EU is home to world-class universities and research
centers, as well as a vibrant startup ecosystem. Opinion polls show record
levels of public support for the EU and the euro and global surveys indicate
that majorities around the world see the EU as a great power on an equal footing
with the US and China.
They are right to do so. With a $22 trillion economy, a vast single market of
nearly half a billion people and plans for another wave of enlargement, Europe’s
weight in the world is undeniable. It may be a different kind of superpower, one
that prizes values, rules and multilateralism over sheer might. But its power
lies in its commitment to principles and willingness to back its partners and
allies, as demonstrated by its status as the biggest source of financial and
military assistance to Ukraine.
Europe continues to build bridges in a world of walls. It is the world’s leading
trade power, residing at the center of a vast, ever-expanding network of free
trade agreements. It is also an investment superpower that promotes shared
prosperity around the world. As the biggest source of humanitarian aid and
development finance, Europe funds everything from global vaccination campaigns
to projects to improve water supplies in Amman and Karachi.
We do so because we remain committed to the same values that brought us this
far. European unification started nearly eight decades ago from the ashes of two
world wars. Our parents and grandparents learned from the tragedies and mistakes
of that dark era and we can draw inspiration from their example to shape a
better future for ourselves and others around the world. Ours is a society based
on inclusion, equality of opportunity, intellectual freedom, peace and the rule
of law.
We know what needs to be done to preserve this way of life. We need even deeper
integration, including our capital markets. We need even more large-scale
investment in critical infrastructure and strategic capabilities. We need
simplification to make the EU more agile and efficient. And we need more win-win
partnerships and alliances to diversify our supply chains and open new markets
for our goods.
Momentum is building in all these areas. European leaders’ minds are focused and
we are determined to capitalize on Europe’s strengths as the world’s
underappreciated superpower.
**Nadia Calvino is President of the European Investment Bank.
©: Project Syndicate
Europe must be an equal partner in NATO
Khaled Abou Zahr/Arab News/February 20, 2026
What is the strength of an alliance? Being generic and banal, it is, as most
people say, only as strong as its weakest link. But the real question is whether
it is still considered an alliance when one member is taking on the bulk of the
responsibilities and financial burden. The answer is “not really,” especially
when it relates to alliances or coalitions between states. The relationship then
becomes more like that of a vassal state and its superior. As the US is
recalibrating its global strategy, many Europeans are waking up to this reality
and questioning the future of the transatlantic alliance.
This awakening is taking time, after an initial period of denial during
President Donald Trump’s first mandate, followed by a period of wishful thinking
during Joe Biden’s presidency. The Europeans now need to decide on their future.
If we were to segment the views, they would be very clear. There are those who
simply wish to do nothing and those who wish to break up with the US, claiming
that Washington is abandoning Europe. I disagree with both views. There should
be another way forward, which is to become stronger and strengthen the alliance.
The first step to achieve this is to stay committed to the transatlantic
alliance and the second is to build up European defense and resilience. The
objective for Europeans should be to lead in their own arena, with the support
of the US, but not act as the second line of defense behind the US.
This is why I also disagree with the way the US administration is depicted. In
his speech at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting last month, Canadian Prime
Minister Mark Carney argued that the long-standing US-led “rules-based”
international order is no longer functioning as it once did and that the world
has entered a period of sharp geopolitical “rupture.” In other words, he said
what all European leaders also say: that the global system built and protected
by the US allowed us to benefit, but now that the US is asking for
accountability and commitment, it is not working to our advantage anymore, so it
needs to change. Even for those claiming they want to break up with the US, this
is a historic opportunity to take the lead
This is kind of like saying that they accepted a form of corruption, but now
that they need to pay up, the “middle powers,” as Carney described them, need to
do something else. But if the Europeans, like Carney’s reactions showed, believe
that China will pick up the tab and take over the system, they are greatly
mistaken.An answer to this position came from US Secretary of State Marco
Rubio’s speech at last weekend’s Munich Security Conference. This was a positive
one, not negative, unlike what most European commentators stated. He said it
point blank: the US wants a strong Europe. So, even for those claiming they want
to break up with the US, this is a historic opportunity to take the lead. But it
means that Europe needs to roll up its sleeves, unify its strategy and put its
money where its mouth is. It is also worth stating that Rubio’s speech is as
important to remember as Vice President J.D. Vance’s a year prior — both should
be taken as the message of the administration.
The mistake would be to see Rubio’s speech as a shift or a softening in the US
position. What the message really says is that Europe has drowned in futile
“woke” causes, just as the US did, and on America’s dime. However, during that
time, the US never forgot its role of protecting and strengthening its military
to face global dangers, while Europe slept and believed its “woke” issues were
the urgent and important ones facing the world. This allowed enemies to pop up
everywhere. Now is the time to build up, become a real partner and create a real
alliance — and it all starts from within Europe.Now is the time to build up,
become a real partner and create a real alliance — and it all starts from within
Europe
The same message of criticism was conveyed by a commentator on X, who wrote that
the US wants to transform Europe into South America, where countries live in
total instability. I agree with the potential outcome but disagree with the
cause. It is not the US but Europeans themselves that could make this happen if
they are unable to unify their defense, foreign policy and global resilience
efforts. Europe cannot rise to this challenge through bickering and disunity.
That would be the end of Europe. The domains of defense and deterrence are ones
of great influence, economic interests and large industries; the risk is that we
witness greater fragmentation and weaknesses due to national interests. The
opportunity lies in doing the opposite. Europeans need to consider the urgency
of the situation in Ukraine and other hot spots. They must show real pragmatism
in developing the deterrence and defense systems needed. By becoming stronger
and recalibrating relations with the US, they will be able to face global risks
with greater assertiveness.
This is not the time to improvise but to execute. So, there is no need to
discuss new alliances and the replacement of NATO. It is time to gain greater
agency and responsibilities within NATO and enhance European efficiency. This
can only take place if Europeans find a consistent decision-making process for
foreign policy and defense. The prospect for all to come out of this stronger
and engage in this alliance is real. The US has been and always will be a
trusted partner — it is now asking for us to do our fair share of the work. It
is time to seize this chance without arrogance.
**Khaled Abou Zahr is the founder of SpaceQuest Ventures, a space-focused
investment platform. He is CEO of EurabiaMedia and editor of Al-Watan Al-Arabi.
X Platform
Selected twittes for 20/2026
Mel Gibson
They tried to cancel faith.
They tried to cancel truth.
They tried to cancel courage.
But here we are.
Still standing. Still speaking. Still fighting.
The question isn’t whether the world is changing.
The question is are you?
Some stories don’t entertain.
They awaken& Would you rather watch comfort… or truth?
#FaithOverFear #courage
Dr Walid Phares
I support the efforts by Senator @LindseyGrahamSC to mediate between MBS and MBZ
to end the tensions between the two leadership.It is a matter of great urgency
and of vital interest to the Arab peoples and to US national security.
Open Source Intel
Sen. Lindsey Graham met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman after talks with
UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, in what seems like a mediation effort
between the two nations.
@kaisos1987 x.com/Osint613/statu…