English LCCC Newsbulletin For Lebanese, Lebanese Related, Global News &
Editorials
For November 01/2026
Compiled & Prepared by: Elias Bejjani
#elias_bejjani_news
The Bulletin's Link on the lccc Site
https://eliasbejjaninews.com/aaaanewsfor2026/english.November01.26.htm
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Bible Quotations For today
I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock
I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Matthew 16/13-20/:'When
Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, ‘Who
do people say that the Son of Man is?’And they said, ‘Some say John the Baptist,
but others Elijah, and still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.’He said to
them, ‘But who do you say that I am?’Simon Peter answered, ‘You are the Messiah,
the Son of the living God.’And Jesus answered him, ‘Blessed are you, Simon son
of Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father in
heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church,
and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of
the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven,
and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.’Then he sternly
ordered the disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Messiah."
Titles For The English LCCC Lebanese & Lebanese Related
News & Editorials published on October 31-November 01/2026
The Faith and Patriotism of Father Najeeb Al-Ameel versus the Trojanism
and Diabolism of the Regime, the Rulers, the Judiciary, and the Politicians
under the Barbaric Occupation of Hezbollah/Elias Bejjani/31 October 2026
Halloween in Canada: Concepts, Religious Background, and the Role of Native
Canadian Traditions/Elias Bejjani/October 31/2025
Arab Citizens of Israel Are the Only Arabs Across the Entire Arab and Islamic
World Who Exercise Their Right to Vote Freely/Elias Bejjani/October 28/2026
Re-electing Benjamin Netanyahu Is a Lebanese, Regional, and International
Strategic Interest: He Is Fighting Political Islam in Both Its Forms on Behalf
of a Complacent West and Its Threatened Civilization/Elias Bejjani/October
26/2026
From an Illegal Room to a Phrase That Sparked Controversy... Why Was Father
Najib al-Amil/Summoned for Investigation? And What Did the Rmeish Municipality
Say?
The South Under Bombardment... Officer Arrested on Drug Charges and Updates on
the Dahr al-Baidar Explosives Case
Judiciary Slaps Hezbollah: Accused of Harming State Security
The Airport Acts Ahead of the Power Cut Deadline... and the Region Holds Its
Breath
Airstrikes, Shelling, Explosions, and Construction of New Military Roads in the
Western and Central Sectors
Israeli forces shell, detonate, and burn houses in South Lebanon
Hezbollah 'won't escalate' after 13 charged in explosives case
From Accra to Beirut... A Drug Shipment and a "Surprise" in the Bags
Despite Positive Atmosphere Following Vance's Message... Iran Escalates and
Directs
Geagea: No Future for Lebanon While Hezbollah Exists, and Raggi Takes Stances in
Manama
Israeli Escalation in the South, and Syria Studies Joining the Mecca Agreement
Lebanon elected to lead International Civil Defence Organization General
Assembly for 2026–2028
EDL: Beirut Airport commits to settling unpaid electricity bills to avoid power
cut
Lebanon’s electricity crisis takes a new turn as EDL threatens to cut power to
state institutions: The details
Salam Monitors the Situation in Rmeich: Supporting the Resilience of Residents
and Addressing Basic Needs
Titles For The Latest English LCCC Miscellaneous Reports And News
published on October 31-November 01/2026
Mojtaba Khamenei directs his military leaders: Respond to threats without
geographical restrictions and the Iranian Army warns of wider war if a new US
attack is launched
Chief of Staff of the Iranian Army: Ready to respond without geographical
restrictions... "New list of American and Israeli targets in a wider
geographical scope"
Rubio puts Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab at the top of Washington's priorities
Break through expected as Iran studies US proposals amid 'positive' atmosphere
Iran's army warns any new US attack would spread war wider
Qataris hold marathon talks in Tehran seeking US-Iran deal before midterms
From oil tankers to fishing boats... Strait of Hormuz faces dangerous
escalation!
From radars to soldiers' bedrooms... How did Iran hit US bases and inflict
billions of dollars in damage?
Secretary of Iran's National Security Council: We have not made a new decision
regarding changing the nuclear doctrine... "I have not yet responded to the
message of the US Vice President"
Rubio: Trump has not "made a decision" regarding a new military operation
against Iran... "The US administration is engaged in many consultations about
the situation surrounding Iran"
Regional challenges top talks between Saudi Foreign Minister and his American
counterpart... America signs contract for its participation in Expo 2030 Riyadh
as an official participant
Republican Party Chairman bets on 5 crucial states in the Senate / Chairman of
the Republican National Committee expects victories in 5 crucial races for the
US Senate
The battle to win a majority in the US Congress enters its final turn...
Accusations against Democrats of recruiting an obscure person to run in Alaska
because he has the same name as the Republican Senator
Lawyers for Alaska: Trump's request to exclude votes in Senate elections is
impossible.... Strongly-worded memo
Germany: Police officers injured in riots at "Gen Z" demonstration... Fireworks
and stone throwing
Yemeni Army retakes strategic sites in al-Jawf... Seizure of weapons and
ammunition stores left by Houthi militia fighters before fleeing
Imam of the village of the perpetrators of the Hammoud church attack in Jordan:
"Their families disowned them"
320 thousand demonstrators and ghost masks.. Terror in the streets of France and
Halloween turns into a nightmare... Authorities deployed about 70 thousand
police and gendarmes across the country
"Mecca Pact" on Damascus table.. What did al-Shaibani reveal?
Titles For The Latest English LCCC
analysis & editorials from miscellaneous sources published
on October 31-November 01/2026
They Ruined Empires. They Will Do It to the USA Too/Dr. Majid Rafizadeh/Gatestone
Institute/October 31, 2026
Here Come the Non-Arabs/Samir Atallah/Asharq Al-Awsat/October 31/2026
Iran Would Do Better as a Normal State at Peace with Its Neighbors/Mohammed al-Rumaihi/Asharq
Al-Awsat/October 31/2026
On the Inevitability of War and Debates of Peace/Fahid Suleiman al-Shoqiran/Asharq
Al-Awsat/October 31/2026
Selected Face Book & X tweets on October 31/2026
Latest English LCCC
Lebanese & Lebanese Related News & Editorials published on October
31-November 01/2026 (Some of the News reports below are
translated from Arabic by AI)
The Faith and Patriotism of Father
Najeeb Al-Ameel versus the Trojanism and Diabolism of the Regime, the Rulers,
the Judiciary, and the Politicians under the Barbaric Occupation of Hezbollah
Elias Bejjani/31 October 2026
https://eliasbejjaninews.com/2026/10/158726/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S7UYdHm16FM
Oh the shame, oh the horror, oh the disgrace!
What Father Najeeb Al-Ameel, the priest of the steadfast town of Rmeish, has
been subjected to at the hands of an unjust, ungrateful female judge—stripped of
all human feeling, detached from reality and conscience, a compliant tool in the
hands of the barbaric Iranian occupier, who knows nothing of the judiciary but
its name—is a vile insult to everything that is human, to humanity itself, to
reason, values, principles, and conscience.
It is a judicial and humanitarian crime complete in all its elements: a priest
who stood with his people in the most difficult circumstances, who strengthened
them on their land and refused their displacement, is summoned and accused of
issuing a threat merely because he asked, with bitter sarcasm, about the
impossibility of resorting to any force other than the Lebanese state under
occupation. Instead of being honored for preserving the land, honor, and
dignity, he is treated as a suspect.
In this context it a must to read the words of the Lord Jesus in the Gospel of
Matthew (Chapter 23): “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you
shut up the kingdom of heaven against men; for you neither go in yourselves, nor
do you allow those who are entering to go in… Woe to you, blind guides… For you
pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have neglected the weightier matters
of the law: justice and mercy and faith.
It also veryhelpfull to read in the Gospel of Saint Luke (11:42-46) the Lord’s
rebuke of the Pharisees and lawyers who load people with burdens hard to bear,
while they themselves will not touch them with one of their fingers, yet neglect
justice and the love of God.
This female judge—an instrument in the hands of the terrorist and jihadist
Hezbollah—and those behind her, above her, and with her from the political
rabble, the so falesly called political parties, the companies, and the
agencies, are a filthy, degenerate, and diabolical contemporary version of those
same scribes, Pharisees, and Trojans across the ages, for they turn a blind eye
to occupation, destruction, displacement, and killing.
Therefore, in a loud voice that will not be silenced, I say with a clear
conscience and deep conviction: May the curse of heaven fall upon the Lebanese
regime, the rulers, and the judiciary of Lebanon, upon all the political parties
apparatuses, companies, and agencies, and upon the political rabble of its
scribes, Pharisees, and Trojans.
O God, uncover what is hidden, replace the oppressors, and grant victory to the
truth and its people.
*The author, Elias Bejjani, is a Lebanese expatriate activist
Author’s Email: Phoenicia@hotmail.com
Author’s Website: https://eliasbejjaninews.com
Halloween in Canada: Concepts, Religious Background, and
the Role of Native Canadian Traditions
Elias Bejjani/October 31/2025
https://eliasbejjaninews.com/2026/10/148754/
Definition and General Concept
Halloween, celebrated every year on October 31, is one of the most popular and
colorful events in Canada. Known for costumes, pumpkin decorations, haunted
houses, and children roaming neighborhoods shouting “Trick or Treat!”, it is a
blend of ancient pagan rituals, Christian traditions, and modern secular
customs. Although today Halloween is mainly associated with fun, candy, and
costumes, its origins are deeply rooted in ancient religious beliefs and
cultural practices that date back thousands of years.
Historical and Religious Background
The origins of Halloween go back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain
(pronounced Sow-in), celebrated in what is now Ireland, Scotland, and parts of
France. The Celts believed that on the night of October 31, the boundary between
the world of the living and the dead became blurred. They lit bonfires and wore
costumes to ward off wandering spirits. When Christianity spread through Europe,
the Church sought to replace or Christianize these pagan celebrations. In the
8th century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as All Saints’ Day (All
Hallows’ Day) — a day to honor saints and martyrs. The evening before it,
October 31, became known as All Hallows’ Eve, which later evolved linguistically
into “Halloween.”Thus, Halloween as we know it today is a mix of pagan and
Christian influences — a fusion of the Celtic belief in spirits and the
Christian remembrance of the dead.
The Role of Native Canadian Indians
Before European settlers arrived, Indigenous peoples across North America had
their own autumn festivals to mark the end of harvest and to honor the spirits
of ancestors. While these Indigenous traditions were not directly related to the
Celtic Samhain, they shared a spiritual connection with nature, life, and death.
When European immigrants — especially from Ireland and Scotland — brought
Halloween to Canada in the 1800s, the celebration gradually mixed with Native
Canadian storytelling, seasonal harvest ceremonies, and community gatherings.
Over time, Halloween in Canada became a cultural event reflecting both European
folklore and Indigenous respect for the spirit world and nature’s cycles.
The Origin and Meaning of the Pumpkin Tradition
The pumpkin has become the most recognizable symbol of Halloween. The tradition
of carving faces into pumpkins, known as “jack-o’-lanterns,” began with an old
Irish legend about a man named Stingy Jack, who tricked the devil and was
condemned to wander the earth carrying a lantern made from a carved-out turnip.
When Irish immigrants came to North America, they discovered that pumpkins were
larger and easier to carve than turnips, and thus they replaced the original
vegetable. Lighting a candle inside the carved pumpkin came to symbolize
guidance for lost spirits and protection from evil ones, turning the pumpkin
into both a symbol of creativity and a charm against darkness.
Halloween and Christianity: Connections and Controversies
While Halloween’s roots touch Christian traditions such as All Saints’ Day
(November 1) and All Souls’ Day (November 2), its modern expression has become
largely secular and commercial. Many Christians — especially Catholics and
Anglicans — observe All Saints’ Day as a holy day of obligation, remembering the
faithful who have passed away. For them, the evening before (Halloween) can be
seen as a time of reflection rather than superstition.
However, certain Christian denominations, particularly Evangelical and
conservative Protestant groups, view Halloween negatively. They argue that its
focus on ghosts, witches, and demons glorifies evil or the devil, rather than
goodness and holiness.This belief has led some families and churches to avoid
Halloween celebrations or to organize “Harvest Festivals” or “Holy Nights” as
wholesome alternatives. The Catholic Church, on the other hand, does not
officially condemn Halloween, but it encourages believers to avoid practices
that promote superstition, occultism, or satanic imagery. Many Catholic
educators emphasize that Halloween’s original intent was to honor the saints and
pray for the dead, not to celebrate evil.
Is Halloween a Celebration of the Devil?
Despite widespread claims, Halloween is not a “devil’s day.”
Historically, it was a time to confront fear and darkness with courage and
faith, not to worship evil. The imagery of ghosts, skeletons, and demons
represented the human confrontation with death and the unknown — central themes
in both pagan and Christian worldviews. In modern culture, Halloween’s
connection to the supernatural is largely symbolic and playful. Most people who
celebrate it today do so for entertainment, creativity, and community fun,
rather than for any religious or anti-religious reason.
Modern Celebrations in Canada
In Canada, Halloween has become a nationally recognized cultural celebration.
Communities, schools, and families decorate homes with pumpkins, lights, and
spooky figures. Children dress up as superheroes, ghosts, or fairy-tale
characters and go from door to door saying “Trick or Treat!” — a phrase dating
back to medieval times when poor people begged for “soul cakes” in return for
prayers for the dead. Canadian cities like Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, and
Halifax host Halloween parades, haunted house events, and pumpkin festivals.
Safety campaigns are also widespread, emphasizing reflective clothing, adult
supervision, and careful candy checks. For children, Halloween is primarily
about joy, imagination, and sharing. For adults, it can also be a chance to
reflect on the mystery of life, death, and the spiritual world — echoing its
ancient roots.
Conclusion
Halloween in Canada today stands as a fusion of ancient Celtic rituals,
Christian remembrance, and modern social fun. While some view it as a harmless
cultural festival, others see it as a reminder to avoid glorifying darkness. The
truth lies somewhere in between: Halloween’s true meaning depends on how it is
celebrated. If approached with understanding, creativity, and moral awareness,
Halloween can be a positive occasion — a night that connects the living with
their past, strengthens community bonds, and celebrates the victory of light
over darkness.
*The author, Elias Bejjani, is a Lebanese expatriate activist
Author’s Email:
Phoenicia@hotmail.com
Author’s Website:
https://eliasbejjaninews.com
Arab Citizens of Israel Are the Only Arabs Across the Entire Arab and
Islamic World Who Exercise Their Right to Vote Freely
Elias Bejjani/October 28/2026
https://eliasbejjaninews.com/2026/10/158647/
What Are the Differences Between Democratic Israel and the Muslim Brotherhood
and Leftist Cancer That Weeps Over “Genocide” While Slaughtering Its Own People?
In practical terms, Arab citizens of Israel, who make up approximately 20% of
the population, are arguably the only Arabs across the Arab and Islamic world
who exercise their right to vote, establish political parties, and enjoy
political rights comparable to those available to them and others in Western
countries—the so-called “infidel lands.”
How astonishing! In an Arab and Islamic world groaning under the yoke of kings,
princes, dictators, and jihadists, with not a single exception, where there are
no genuine elections, no free press, and no opposition figures who emerge from
prison except as corpses, the stupid and destructive Left and the terrorist
Islamist movements, both Sunni and Shiite, shout day and night: “Israel is
racist! Israel is committing genocide! Throw the Jews into the sea!”
Then Israeli elections take place, and Arab citizens of Israel turn out to vote
freely, becoming kingmakers who can determine who will become prime minister.
They negotiate, bargain, threaten to withdraw their support, and secure
ministries and budgets… in a state supposedly defined as “racist and genocidal.”
Meanwhile, in their countries of origin, from Tehran to Riyadh, and through
Cairo, Damascus, Algiers, Sudan, and Jakarta, citizens cannot criticize their
rulers except in whispers, lest they find themselves in a prison cell or a mass
grave.
This spectacle alone is enough to expose the lies. The Left, which weeps over
“human rights” in Palestine, forgets that Arab and Islamic regimes are living
museums of repression and tyranny. Political Islam—this cancer that branches
directly from the Muslim Brotherhood—shouts “jihad” against Israel while
slaughtering Sunnis in Syria, Iraq, and Yemen; oppressing women in Iran,
Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Bangladesh; and turning every country it controls
into an open-air prison from which its own people flee to the “lands of the
infidels”—the countries of the West.
Yes, the Muslim Brotherhood cancer. It helped turn the Arab Spring into a bloody
autumn, exports jihadist rhetoric, and views every Western democracy as an
opportunity to “Islamize” it from within. Arab and Muslim migrants go to
extraordinary lengths to reach Europe, America, and Canada, fleeing poverty,
repression, and tyranny. Yet, once settled, the majority allegedly begin
demanding that these countries be transformed into distorted versions of the
very countries they fled: compulsory hijab, Sharia law, gender segregation, and
rejection of any criticism of Islam. Someone once asked with bitter sarcasm: If
you succeed in turning the West into Islamic states like your own countries,
where will you migrate next?
Israel, with all its flaws and conflicts, remains the only state in the region
where Arab citizens exercise their right to vote, protest, and enjoy genuine
political representation. Meanwhile, revolutionary Iran executes protesters,
Saudi Arabia carries out beheadings, and Indonesia, the world’s largest
Muslim-majority country, continues to face serious challenges concerning genuine
freedom of expression. Egypt, Syria, Iraq, Libya, and Yemen… all serve as
examples of a political culture that views democracy as an existential threat,
rather than as a fundamental right.
They should be ashamed. The Left should be ashamed of glorifying “resistance”
while ignoring Assad’s prisons, Sisi’s jails, and Tehran’s gallows. Political
Islam should be ashamed of promoting jihad against Jews while perpetrating mass
atrocities against its own peoples. And Israel, despite all the noise, continues
to remind everyone that democracy is not an empty slogan but a daily
practice—even when those exercising it are Arabs living within the “Zionist
state.”
As for the Muslim Brotherhood cancer, it continues to spread, migrate, and
attempt to reproduce the same catastrophe wherever it takes root. The question
that will always haunt its adherents is this: After destroying the West just as
you destroyed your own countries, into which sea will you throw yourselves?
Ultimately, freedom and justice cannot be selective slogans. They cannot be
demanded for one group while being denied to others. Anyone who raises the
banner of human rights must defend those rights everywhere and hold every
authority or organization that violates them accountable, regardless of its
identity, ideology, or slogans.
*The author, Elias Bejjani, is a Lebanese expatriate activist
Author’s Email: Phoenicia@hotmail.com
Author’s Website:
https://eliasbejjaninews.com
Re-electing Benjamin Netanyahu Is a
Lebanese, Regional, and International Strategic Interest: He Is Fighting
Political Islam in Both Its Forms on Behalf of a Complacent West and Its
Threatened Civilization
Elias Bejjani/October 26/2026
https://eliasbejjaninews.com/2026/10/158590/
I see that the continuation of resolute leadership of the stature
of Benjamin Netanyahu, the international leader who fights terrorist political
Islam in both its Shiite and Sunni forms, and who fights on behalf of a
complacent West infiltrated by extremism, is the option most compatible with the
goal of the Lebanese to build a free state with full sovereignty, and a
strategic interest for Lebanon, the region, and the free world.
As a Lebanese citizen who believes in state sovereignty, independence of
national decision-making, and the distinct Lebanese identity, I state it clearly
and without equivocation: I support the re-election of Benjamin Netanyahu on
Tuesday, October 27, 2026, because I see in him an exceptional international
leader, and direct support for the cause of a free, independent Lebanon,
liberated from the occupation of Iran and its terrorist arm, Hezbollah.
The re-election of Netanyahu and enabling him to form the next Israeli
government directly intersects with Lebanon’s supreme interests at this critical
and existential juncture.
Netanyahu is not just an ordinary candidate. He is the longest-serving Prime
Minister in the history of Israel, the statesman who led Israel through multiple
wars, managed complex international relations, and enjoys clear and explicit
support from U.S. President Donald Trump, who described him as a strong,
courageous leader and partner in confronting the Islamic Republic. This support
reflects a convergence of vision on the priority of containing the Iranian
threat and preventing the regime from acquiring nuclear capabilities that
threaten world peace.
Netanyahu has proven over the past years that he is the most determined Israeli
leader to confront the Iranian project in the region. This project, embodied in
supporting, arming, and transforming southern Lebanon into an advanced military
platform for Hezbollah, has for decades been the main obstacle to Lebanon
regaining its full sovereignty. Treating Hezbollah as an illegitimate occupation
force linked to Tehran, and seeking to dismantle its military infrastructure, is
consistent with international resolutions, foremost among them Resolution 1701,
and with the aspirations of Lebanese who want one state that monopolizes weapons
and decision-making.
But my support for Netanyahu goes beyond the narrow Lebanese dimension. I
support him because I see in him an international leader who fights political
Islam in both its criminal forms, Shiite and Sunni, without selective
discrimination and without hypocrisy.
He does not fight the Iranian Shiite axis alone, but adopts a comprehensive
local, regional, and international vision that sees political extremism,
represented by destructive terrorist and jihadi political Islam, whether Sunni
or Shiite, as a common source threatening stability in all countries of the
world, especially in the Middle East. The military campaign against Hamas and
Islamic Jihad after the events of October 7th, and the insistence on disarming
these organizations and preventing their rebuilding, clearly reflects this
approach. His pursuit of weakening the Iranian regime itself stems from a firm
conviction that the survival of the Mullahs’ regime means continued feeding of
armed networks in Lebanon, Gaza, and Yemen.
And here lies a fundamental point: Netanyahu is fighting on behalf of a
complacent West. While Islamic extremism has spread within Western societies
themselves, and their capitals suffer from a culture of violence, militias, and
ideological extremism, Netanyahu stands almost alone waging the civilizational
battle against this danger. He understands that the danger is one, whether it
comes with a Shiite turban from Tehran or a Sunni jihadi flag from Gaza.
In this context, the existential threats of Iranian nuclear capabilities emerge
as a central danger that cannot be ignored. The Iranian regime’s pursuit of
nuclear weapons does not threaten Israel alone, but poses an existential threat
to Lebanon in particular. If Tehran acquires a nuclear weapon, it will gain a
deterrent umbrella enabling it to escalate its support for its militias in
Lebanon, Yemen, and Iraq without fear of real deterrent responses, and will
transform Hezbollah into an even bolder tool for imposing a foreign agenda on
the Lebanese. Preventing the Mullahs from acquiring nuclear capabilities is not
just an Israeli interest, but a common Lebanese, regional, and international
interest.
On the diplomatic level, Netanyahu played a pivotal role in achieving the
Abraham Accords, which opened new horizons for cooperation between Israel and
several Arab countries, including the UAE, Bahrain, Morocco, and Sudan. These
agreements were not merely formal normalization, but represented the beginning
of a practical alliance between states that share a rejection of Iranian
expansion and Sunni and Shiite jihadi Islamic ideological extremism. The
existence of an Israeli leadership committed to this path enhances the chances
of expanding regional stability, which is in Lebanon’s interest in the medium
and long term.
Politically, despite the media noise and close polls showing a race of between
48 and 55 seats for his camp, Netanyahu’s chances remain the highest in reality.
His electoral base in Likud and the religious and right-wing parties remains the
most cohesive and disciplined, and has repeatedly proven to surprise the polls
with high turnout on election day. Israeli history shows that right-wing voters
are often undercounted in polls. Moreover, his unique experience in building
coalitions and coalition negotiations gives him a clear advantage over a divided
opposition camp suffering from internal divisions over reliance on Arab parties.
In conclusion, this is not about blind support for any external party, but about
a realistic assessment of the balance of power and interests. Lebanon needs a
regional environment in which the ability of foreign-backed militias to impose
their agendas is reduced. Any retreat in Israeli resolve toward Hezbollah and
the Iranian regime would give both parties an opportunity to regroup and restore
their capabilities, and for Lebanon this means prolonging the current situation:
a weak state, illegitimate weapons, borders open to tension, and a collapsed
economy.
Therefore, I see the continuation of resolute leadership of the stature of
Benjamin Netanyahu – the international leader who fights terrorist political
Islam in both its Shiite and Sunni forms, and who fights on behalf of a
complacent West infiltrated by extremism – as the option most compatible with
the goal of the Lebanese to build a free state with full sovereignty, and a
strategic interest for Lebanon, the region, and the free world.
*The author, Elias Bejjani, is a Lebanese expatriate activist
Author’s Email:
Phoenicia@hotmail.com
Author’s Website:
https://eliasbejjaninews.com
From an Illegal Room to a Phrase That Sparked
Controversy... Why Was Father Najib al-Amil Summoned for Investigation? And What
Did the Rmeish Municipality Say?
Janoubia/October 31, 2026
The summoning of Father Najib al-Amil, who has served the parish of Rmeish for
over 30 years, for investigation in Saida has triggered a wave of solidarity in
the border town. The incident stems from a building violation and a demolition
order for a room constructed on a house's rooftop. While the relevant judicial
authority considered that a statement attributed to Father al-Amil might imply a
threat, the Rmeish Municipality intervened to clarify the circumstances,
stressing that the words were taken out of context amid the exceptional security
conditions in the town, which is under Israeli occupation.
From a Building Violation to the Summoning of Father al-Amil
The MTV website revealed that the summoning of Father Najib al-Amil occurred
following an incident related to unlicensed construction work in Rmeish, after
the local police station asked a resident to demolish a room he built on his
roof. According to Father al-Amil's statement to MTV, he intervened to prevent a
dispute between the building owner and the police station and to mitigate the
situation's fallout, especially given the extraordinary security environment in
Rmeish—with the town under Israeli occupation and Israeli army soldiers deployed
inside it. He noted that he expressed a hope to postpone handling the matter
until suitable conditions permit, avoiding any potential friction or
confrontation. However, the presiding judge in Saida, who contacted him,
considered his words to carry an implicit threat against her and insisted on
summoning him for questioning. Following these developments, a gathering of
solidarity with Father al-Amil took place in the courtyard of Rmeish Church.
Rmeish Municipality: The Phrase Was Taken Out of Context
In a further development, the Rmeish Municipality issued a statement declaring
its full solidarity with Father al-Amil. It asserted that the phrase attributed
to him—"What should we do, call the Israelis?"—was understood out of its real
context and did not reflect its intended meaning.
The municipality explained that the issue began after a local resident undertook
unpermitted construction on his rooftop, followed by judicial steps to halt the
violation, which eventually culminated in demanding that the municipality
execute the demolition order itself without the necessary security support. The
municipality stressed its full respect for the Lebanese judiciary and its
commitment to upholding the law, but highlighted the need to account for the
exceptional security and living conditions facing the town's residents. It noted
that carrying out the demolition without security backup could put the
municipality in direct conflict with one of its own residents, thereby
threatening civil peace and public safety at a time when Rmeish urgently needs
unity, solidarity, and alignment around state institutions. How Did the
Municipality Justify the Phrase "Call the Israelis"? Regarding Father al-Amil's
intervention with the judge, the municipality clarified that his stance arose
from a keen desire to prevent conflict among town residents and to preserve what
remains of the legitimate state institutions' presence there. It affirmed that
the phrase was uttered in a sarcastic and denunciatory context, not as an
attempt to leverage Israeli power. Rather, it was meant to emphasize the
impossibility of turning to any alternative to the Lebanese security forces and
to warn of the danger of a confrontation occurring under the town's sensitive
conditions. The municipality considered that "miscommunication" led to
interpreting the remark as relying on Israel for leverage—resulting in Father
al-Amil being summoned—whereas the actual intent, according to the statement,
was to express the need for a greater and more effective presence of the state,
its institutions, and its security apparatus.
Solidarity with Father al-Amil and an Appeal to the Judiciary to Reconsider
The municipality declared its complete solidarity with Father al-Amil, noting
that the solidarity gathering in the town reflected the residents' affection for
him and their appreciation of his role—particularly his steadfast support during
the most difficult circumstances, his defense of their survival and endurance on
their land, and his demands to preserve the presence of state institutions in
Rmeish. It also appealed to the competent judicial authority to reconsider the
decision to summon him and to evaluate his words within their true context. The
municipality affirmed its trust in the judiciary, its respect for judicial
independence, and its eagerness to maintain the relationship between the town
and state institutions based on cooperation and mutual trust.The municipality
concluded by emphasizing that the people of Rmeish, who chose to remain on their
land despite the risks, ask only for the state to stand beside them and account
for their living conditions, prioritizing their protection and the preservation
of their unity and safety.
The South Under Bombardment... Officer Arrested on Drug Charges and Updates on
the Dahr al-Baidar Explosives Case
Janoubia/October 31, 2026
The Israeli escalation in southern Lebanon continued, with a series of aerial
and field attacks recorded across several towns, coinciding with low-altitude
warplane overflights in the area. Field information reported that an Israeli
drone dropped a bomb on a house on the outskirts of the town of Mayfadoun,
marking the seventh attack of its kind on the town during the day. Israeli
aviation also launched an airstrike on the town of Mansouri, while shrapnel from
a recent strike on Aamriyeh reached inhabited homes. In a separate security
context, information from the MTV website reported that the Information Branch
arrested three individuals in Ajaltoun, including a Military Police officer, on
charges of drug trafficking. Judicially, information revealed by "Al-Jadeed"
channel indicated that a new name was added to the list of defendants in the
Dahr al-Baidar explosives case—a driver of one of the two vehicles accompanying
the explosives shipment—bringing the total number of defendants to nine. In
parallel, "Al-Jadeed" reported ongoing contacts to contain the judicial fallout
of the file, in which the Director General of General Security, Major General
Hassan Choucair, acted as a mediator, amid reports of promises received by
Hezbollah that the prosecutions would proceed under misdemeanor rather than
felony charges. Politically, "Lebanese Forces" sources told "Al-Jadeed" that the
party's ministers will withdraw from the upcoming Cabinet session if an item to
refer the Dahr al-Baidar explosives file to the Judicial Council is not put to a
vote. Conversely, Hezbollah sources, reacting to the non-referral of the case to
the Judicial Council, described the move as "partial calm, not true calm,"
considering that actual calm begins with the government reversing decisions that
the party views as criminalizing the resistance. In a notable stance, Hezbollah
sources told "Al-Jadeed": "Berri is not an older brother... Berri is a father."
Judiciary Slaps Hezbollah: Accused of Harming State
Security
Nidaa Al-Watan/October 31, 2026
Between the upcoming Israeli elections and the U.S. elections scheduled for next
Tuesday, the region is living through a period of cautious anticipation amid
questions over whether the ballot boxes will yield political settlements or
unleash military scenarios. In parallel with this regional scene open to all
possibilities, Lebanon is waging a battle to establish the prestige of the
judiciary in the face of "Hezbollah." The explosives truck seized in Dahr al-Baidar
has transformed from a security case into a pivotal test: Who will bend the arm
of the other, the legitimate authority or the militia? What the judicial process
has shown so far is that the era of Wafiq Safa’s bravado and bullying of
institutions is over. However, restoring the state's authority remains
incomplete unless accountability reaches the top of the pyramid, ensuring that
the leaders behind security and military decisions do not remain immune from
questioning.
In a judicial development reflecting the explosives truck file moving into a new
phase, Government Commissioner to the Military Court Judge Claude Ghanem charged
eight individuals belonging to "Hezbollah" in the case of transporting the truck
seized at the Dahr al-Baidar checkpoint. The eight defendants are all known by
name, including detainees Ali al-Kurdi and Haissam Amhaz, while the judge issued
search and investigation warrants for the remaining six. The charges included
offenses of attacking internal and external state security, violating government
decisions, possessing weapons and explosives, forming illegal associations aimed
at undermining state authority and prestige, as well as other crimes touching
upon the law. According to available data, the penalties stipulated in the
charged articles reach up to ten years of hard labor. The six wanted individuals
are Ibrahim Khodr Habib, alias "Sajid"; Bilal Fadel Sabouri, alias "Zulfiqar";
Mohammad Safi Ayoub; Mohammad Haidar Zaiter; Mohammad Abdullah Hazimeh; and the
Russian national Yelena Novo Begveni Kreshinova, wife of the detainee Amhaz.
Additionally, the file listed aliases for individuals whose full identities have
not been determined, including "Abu Turab," also known as "Al-Qaseer Al-Aqra'"
(The Short Bald Man), "El-Sayyed," "Alaa," "Abu al-Fadl," and "Abu Haidar." The
reports were immediately referred to the First Military Investigative Judge in
preparation for issuing the necessary judicial warrants and expanding the
interrogation of those involved to uncover the network of connections and
cooperation among the names listed in the file, whether at the planning,
transport, or escort level.
The "Party" Wants "Honors"!
In the first fallout of the judicial indictment, MP Hussein Hajj Hassan, a
member of the "Loyalty to the Resistance" bloc, launched a brazen attack on the
decision, considering that it "lacks the most basic rules of the National Pact,
human rights, and Lebanese laws that guarantee," in his view, "the right to
resist the occupation." He maintained that the defendants were "performing a
national duty in defense of Lebanon and its sovereignty, and deserve honors, not
trial." He considered the charges regarding harming state security to be void
and unjust because the individuals concerned, according to him, were confronting
Israel, not threatening Lebanon's security.
Government Pressures Escalate
The fallout of the explosives truck did not remain confined to the corridors of
the military judiciary; it extended to the cabinet level, where demands are
escalating to refer the file to the Judicial Council, amid the "Lebanese Forces"
maintaining their stance on boycotting cabinet sessions. Contrary to rumors
about a potential retreat or softening of position by the "Lebanese Forces," its
sources confirmed to "Nidaa Al-Watan" that the party remains firm on this choice
and is heading toward escalatory steps if the issue of referring the Dahr al-Baidar
explosives file to the Judicial Council is not addressed. Added to this is the
electricity file, where the "Lebanese Forces" insist on the necessity of public
administrations and institutions settling their overdue balances to Électricité
du Liban (EDL) to avoid executing the decision to cut off their power supply.
In the same context, the "Kataeb" Party entered the line of demanding
accountability for those involved in the explosives file, stressing the
necessity of completing the judicial path and transferring the case to the
Judicial Council. From Bkerke, which was visited by a Kataeb delegation to
deliver an invitation to Maronite Patriarch Mar Bechara Boutros al-Rahi to
sponsor and attend the Mass for the 20th anniversary of the martyrdom of
Minister Pierre Gemayel—scheduled to be held at St. George's Church in Beirut on
November 21—MP Samy Gemayel affirmed adherence to restoring the state's
decision-making and sovereignty over all Lebanese territory, and restricting
arms to its hands alone.
Washington: Elections Do Not Change the Priority of Disarmament
In parallel, these judicial and political developments intersect with firm
American messages regarding "Hezbollah's" weapons and the state's role in ending
its independent military capability. According to information obtained by "Nidaa
Al-Watan," U.S. messages sent to Beirut confirm that while the mid-term election
results may alter the instruments of pressure on Lebanon, they will not change
the priority of disarming "Hezbollah," ending its independent military
capability, and curbing Iran's influence over Lebanese decision-making. In light
of the potential for a renewed confrontation with Iran, the primary test becomes
the Lebanese government's ability to prevent "Hezbollah" from dragging the
country into a new war. The American message is clear: continued support for
Lebanon is not guaranteed, and its future depends on the actions of its
government, not on election results in Washington.
Battle of Resilience Met with Questioning
Meanwhile, in the South, and in another judicial scene that raises eyebrows,
Father Najib al-Amil was summoned for investigation while the people of Rmeish
and border villages wage a daily battle of resilience—initiating with bare flesh
and modest means the repair of what war has destroyed, despite severe security
and living conditions. In detail, "Nidaa Al-Watan" learned that Father al-Amil
was summoned following the construction of a room by a local resident, which the
Rmeish police station ordered to be demolished. To avoid any confrontation,
especially given the extraordinary security conditions, Father al-Amil expressed
a hope to postpone addressing the issue until suitable conditions permit.
However, according to available information, the judge in Saida considered his
words to imply a threat to call upon "the Israelis," subsequently summoning him
for investigation.
The Airport Acts Ahead of the Power Cut Deadline... and the Region Holds Its
Breath
Nidaa Al-Watan/November 01, 2026
The region stands on the edge of a volcano amid fears of a potential new round
of war involving the United States and Israel on one side, and Iran on the
other, awaiting the results of the U.S. congressional midterm elections that
kick off Tuesday. Meanwhile, escalatory stances emerged from Iranian Supreme
Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, warning the U.S. and Israel against launching new
attacks and instructing senior military commanders to respond "immediately,
effectively, and without geographical restrictions," as he put it. A political
source told "Nidaa Al-Watan" that Khamenei's statements are also intended as a
message from Iran to its armed proxies in the region to initiate support in the
event a new conflict erupts, warning of the dire consequences if "Hezbollah"
implicates Lebanon in a new round of war. The same source deemed that any step
of this nature would return us to square one, constitute a coup against state
decisions, and blow up all efforts by the presidency and the government to
secure permanent stability and peace—the primary objective of negotiations that
the "Party" continues to oppose and seek to sabotage by all means.
"The Airport" Responds to "Electricity"
Domestically, and to the backdrop of ongoing Israeli strikes in the south, the
electricity file remains at the forefront of events, on the eve of the deadline
set by Électricité du Liban (EDL) to cut power to public institutions and
departments that have defaulted on settling their financial dues. With the
countdown underway for tomorrow, Monday, the Civil Aviation Authority at Rafic
Hariri International Airport contacted EDL's Board of Directors, demonstrating a
commitment to pay an immediate installment and schedule its overdue balances,
while pledging to settle its monthly consumption amounts regularly starting this
month. EDL urged other public administrations and institutions to follow the
airport's example and settle their financial status. Meanwhile, the Ministry of
Public Works and Transport expressed appreciation for the cooperation between
the Ministry of Energy and Water and EDL, which led to resolving the airport's
power supply issue to ensure uninterrupted operations. For his part, Minister of
Energy and Water Joe Saddi emphasized in an interview on MTV that this pressure
must not stop, as the goal is to enable EDL to increase supply hours. It
requires $50 million monthly until the second demand—implementing a dynamic
tariff—is passed.
Politically, the Head of the "Lebanese Forces" Party, Samir Geagea, affirmed
that "Lebanon and its generations have no present and no future as long as
military and security 'Hezbollah' exists," stressing that this presence causes
developments in Lebanon to be tied, in the eyes of the outside world, to
regional and international confrontations in which Iran is a party. From
Bahrain, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants Youssef Raggi renewed, during
his address at the 22nd Manama Dialogue, "Lebanon's full solidarity with Bahrain
and the Gulf states in confronting Iranian attacks and those carried out by
armed groups linked to Iran," rejecting "any infringement on their sovereignty,
security, and territorial integrity." Raggi affirmed that "Lebanon, under the
tenure of President General Joseph Aoun and the government of Prime Minister
Nawaf Salam, has embarked on a path to restore state authority," recalling "the
government's decisions to restrict arms to the state and ban the Party's
military and security activities."In the southern town of Rmeish, a solidarity
gathering was organized for the parish priest, Father Najib al-Amil, in the
square of the Church of the Transfiguration after he was summoned for
questioning. During the gathering, Father al-Amil emphasized the residents'
commitment to their land and their refusal to leave it, stressing support for
the Lebanese state while calling on it to address their conditions. He added:
"We will not leave, no matter what it takes; we will remain in our country." In
parallel, Prime Minister Dr. Nawaf Salam received a phone call from the Mayor of
Rmeish, Hanna al-Amil, who briefed him on conditions in the town and neighboring
villages. Prime Minister Salam praised the residents' resilience, adherence to
their land, and right to remain. Discussions also covered the town's needs,
including securing diesel fuel for public facilities and expanding the scope of
support programs provided by the Ministry of Social Affairs.
Airstrikes, Shelling, Explosions, and Construction of New Military Roads in the
Western and Central Sectors
Markazia/October 31, 2026
A violent explosion echoed around the town of Tallouseh in southern Lebanon,
reverberating across wide areas of the south up to the city of Tyre. Another
very powerful explosion shook the outskirts of the town of Baraachit in southern
Lebanon. The Israeli army conducted a massive demolition operation on the
outskirts of Baraachit in the Bint Jbeil district, coincided with artillery
shelling targeting the town of Mansouri in the Tyre district. The Israeli army
also targeted a mosque in Aamriyeh, south of Tyre, near a Lebanese Army
checkpoint. Southern Lebanon witnessed renewed escalation as Israeli aircraft
launched an airstrike on Mansouri in the Tyre district, alongside a demolition
operation in the town of Kfar Tebnit in the Nabatieh district. The Israeli army
continues demolition operations in southern border regions while constructing
new military roads in mountains and valleys within the Western and Central
sectors. These roads aim to connect military positions established by the
Israeli army following its occupation of the area. This afternoon, an Israeli
drone exploded inside an inhabited house in the town of Mayfadoun, with no
casualties reported. A drone targeted another house in Mayfadoun and exploded
inside it without causing casualties. Later, another Israeli drone exploded in
an inhabited house on the outskirts of Mayfadoun, followed by another targeting
and exploding in a different home—bringing the total to four suicide drones
exploding in four houses in under twenty minutes in Mayfadoun. An Israeli drone
also dropped a bomb on a house on the outskirts of Mayfadoun toward Zautar al-Sharqiyya.
Furthermore, the Israeli army fired smoke grenades at houses on the outskirts of
Zautar al-Sharqiyya. Israeli forces conducted bulldozing operations in the town
of Qantara, alongside machine-gun sweeping operations toward the town. The area
between Zautar al-Sharqiyya and Mayfadoun was subjected to intermittent enemy
artillery shelling. Additionally, an Israeli force advanced around midday from
the town of Khiam toward the home of citizen Mahdi Salloum and the home of the
family of the late Mohammad Abu Dargham, on the outskirts of Ebel el-Saqi in the
Marjayoun district, requesting those inside not to leave under the pretext of
conducting a search operation. Consequently, several town notables and religious
figures went to the location, where the Israeli force informed them of its
intention to search the homes of citizens Sami Adel Ghobar and Faisal Hussein
Monzer using a drone. The force also searched chicken and livestock farms as
well as agricultural huts on the outskirts of the town, requesting that the Ebel
el-Saqi Municipality disconnect the internet network from the neighborhood where
the two homes are located.
Israeli warplanes carried out an airstrike targeting the area between Nabatieh
al-Faouqa and Kfar Tebnit, and an Israeli drone executed a strike with a guided
missile on the Kfar Tebnit - Nabatieh roundabout. Israeli warplanes also
launched an airstrike on the outskirts of Hadatha in the Bint Jbeil district.
Artillery shelled the outskirts of Mayfadoun and Nabatieh al-Faouqa. Shelling
hit the towns of Kounine, Serbine, and Beit Lif, the outskirts of Hadatha and
Hariss in the Bint Jbeil district, as well as Tallouseh and the outskirts of
Qantara toward Wadi al-Hujair in the Marjayoun district. An incursion by a
military force toward Wadi Shebaa was detected, while the enemy army continues
work to construct a military road toward Wadi Shebaa. Earlier this morning, an
airstrike targeted Wadi al-Salouqi, and Israeli forces opened heavy machine-gun
fire toward the woods in Wadi al-Hujair and the vicinity of Shaqra.
Israeli warplanes launched three airstrikes: the first targeted the area between
Nabatieh al-Faouqa and Kfar Tebnit in the Nabatieh district, the second targeted
the outskirts of Baraachit in the Bint Jbeil district, and the third targeted
the area between Adchit al-Qousseir and Taybeh in the Marjayoun district. A
morning strike targeted Mahmoud Ali Ismail's four-story house in Baraachit. The
town of Zautar al-Sharqiyya in the Nabatieh district was subjected to artillery
shelling. Israeli forces conducted sweeping operations in Hadatha, coinciding
with the movement of Israeli vehicles inside the town. Heavy gunfire was heard,
and the Israeli army executed sweeping fire from Khiam's eastern side toward
agricultural lands in Ebel el-Saqi. The Israeli army conducted a demolition
operation in Tallouseh, Marjayoun district, while a drone flew at a low altitude
over towns in the district. Drone activity was also observed at low altitudes
over Tyre and surrounding towns up to the banks of the Litani in the Qasmiyeh
area. Israeli drones flew over Beirut and its southern suburbs this morning.
Israeli forces shell, detonate, and burn houses in South
Lebanon
Naharnet/October 31/2026
Israeli artillery shelled Friday Mayfadoun, Wadi al-Hujair, Kfarshouba and
Hadatha in south Lebanon while forces set houses ablaze in al-Qantara, the
National News Agency said.
Later in the day, Israeli forces carried out detonations in al-Teereh and Shebaa.
Hezbollah 'won't escalate' after 13 charged in explosives
case
Naharnet/October 31/2026
Hezbollah will not escalate over the charges filed by Judge Claude Ghanem
against 13 suspects in the Dahr al-Baidar explosives case and "a decision has
been made to give political contacts a chance," political sources told the
pro-Hezbollah daily al-Akhbar. Hezbollah has not issued an official statement,
but its MP Hussein al-Hajj Hassan said that "the indictment issued by the
Government Commissioner to the Military Court against a number of Lebanese
citizens lacks the most basic rules of the National Pact, the Universal
Declaration of Human Rights, the United Nations Charter, and numerous Lebanese
laws, all of which guarantee the legitimate rights of any resistance against the
occupation."He pointed out that "the detainees and the rest of the accused
citizens were performing a national duty in defense of their country, state
sovereignty, and to protect the Lebanese people, for which they deserve honor
rather than trial." "They have no connection to all the false accusations issued
by parties inside and outside the rulimh authority," Hajj Hassan added,
referring to the accusations that the explosives were meant to be used in
assassinations. "Regardless of the local and foreign political targeting that
accompanied this case, the reliance of this decision on certain articles of the
Penal Code is completely incompatible with the mission the defendants were
performing. This accusation is unfair and unjust, and its merits are subject to
well-known political dictates," the legislator stated. "These resistance
fighters were not in a position to undermine state security and safety, but were
rather confronting the Israeli enemy, which threatens Lebanon's existence
through its continuous occupation and the daily crimes of assassination,
bombing, and destruction it commits against our country and people," the MP
argued.
The charges marked the latest sign of a dramatic shift in relations between
Hezbollah and Lebanon after two wars between the Iran-backed group and Israel in
the past three years. For decades, Hezbollah moved weapons freely in parts of
Lebanon. That changed in March, when the government declared the group's
military activities illegal following the outbreak of the latest war. Two
defendants were arrested when authorities seized the shipment earlier this month
and remain in custody. The other 11 remain at large and were charged in
absentia. Five were identified only by nicknames because their real names remain
unknown. The charges include crimes against internal state security, possession
of weapons and explosives, and forming illegal associations aimed at undermining
state authority, the state-run National News Agency said. The truck was stopped
at a checkpoint on the main highway linking Beirut to the eastern Bekaa Valley
earlier this month. It carried 780 kilograms of explosives, including 250
kilograms of TNT and 250 kilograms of C-4 plastic explosives, according to
judicial officials. The seizure sparked heated public debate, with many accusing
Hezbollah of planning to assassinate domestic opponents as it faces mounting
pressure to disarm. The government outlawed Hezbollah's military activities
hours after the group fired rockets into northern Israel, triggering a war that
has killed nearly 4,000 people in Lebanon and left Israeli forces occupying a
large swath of the country's south. Hezbollah fired the rockets two days after
Israel and the United States launched a war on Iran, its main backer.Hezbollah
has refused to recognize the government's decision.
From Accra to Beirut... A Drug Shipment and a "Surprise" in the Bags
Janoubia / October 31, 2026
In a preemptive security operation, the General Directorate of General Security
foiled an attempt to smuggle 40 kilograms of cocaine into Lebanon after
arresting a Syrian passenger arriving at Rafic Hariri International Airport from
Accra. The drugs were seized inside his luggage, hidden in 40 boxes and
accompanied by electronic tracking devices. The Media Affairs Office of General
Security stated in a release that the Directorate tracked the movements of the
Syrian passenger (B.H.) from the moment he left Accra until his arrival in
Lebanon, where airport undercover investigators monitored him from the moment he
disembarked the aircraft until he retrieved his two bags. In coordination with
customs officers, the bags were searched at the transit point, revealing 40
boxes, each containing one kilogram of cocaine totaling 40 kilograms, in
addition to "AirTags" electronic tracking devices placed inside the packages.
The passenger was immediately detained and the seized items were confiscated,
while investigations continue under the supervision of the competent judiciary
to uncover the circumstances of the operation, identify the potential extensions
of the network, and work to arrest the remaining accomplices. According to the
announced data, the operation demonstrates that security tracking began prior to
the suspect's arrival in Lebanon and concluded with the seizure of the shipment
at the airport, while uncovering the parties behind the smuggling attempt and
the shipment's route remains the core focus of ongoing investigations.
Despite Positive Atmosphere Following Vance's Message... Iran Escalates and
Directs
Geagea: No Future for Lebanon While Hezbollah Exists, and Raggi Takes Stances in
Manama
Israeli Escalation in the South, and Syria Studies Joining the Mecca Agreement
Markazia/October 31, 2026
Between an expanding Israeli field escalation in the south and sovereign,
judicial, and financial files placing the state before a test of its ability to
translate its decisions into actual measures, Lebanese developments are crowding
several fronts. While eyes turn to Israeli President Isaac Herzog's
consultations with parliamentary blocs to determine the path of forming a new
government, the issue of the Dahr al-Baidar explosives and the judicial charges
against Hezbollah members advances to the forefront, re-raising questions about
the state's seriousness in enforcing its authority and executing decisions to
restrict weapons exclusively to the state. Parallel to the sovereign positions
articulated by Foreign Minister Youssef Raggi from Manama, the tug-of-war
intensifies over Electricité du Liban (EDL) dues and the Ministry of Energy's
firm approach toward public institutions that fail to settle their bills.
Regionally, the picture fluctuates between high-ceiling military messages from
Iran and positive diplomatic signals regarding the nuclear file, amid Syrian
moves toward new regional security arrangements.
The Country is Paying the Price: Regarding political stances, the Head of the
Lebanese Forces Party, Samir Geagea, stressed that "Lebanon and its generations
have no present and no future as long as military and security Hezbollah
exists." Speaking during the annual dinner of the North Metn Coordination Bureau
of the Lebanese Forces, held at the party's headquarters in Maarab, Geagea
emphasized that the Lebanese Forces' insistence on addressing this issue stems
not from traditional political rivalry or competition with the party, but from
the conviction that its military and security existence keeps Lebanon in a state
of instability and prevents it from securing the political and economic support
and investments needed for recovery. Touching on the Dahr al-Baidar explosives
file, Geagea noted that the government took the required decisions regarding the
exclusivity of military and security activities to the state, considering that
the time has come to move from decisions to actual implementation. He added that
the issue cannot be reduced to individuals transporting explosives, as
transporting a shipment of this size presupposes the existence of an entity
backing, funding, and organizing its transit. He asked: "We are facing a problem
of this magnitude—can it be left this way?", asserting that the case should have
been referred to the Judicial Council from the very first moment. He deemed that
charging the case under articles falling within the Judicial Council's
jurisdiction reinforces the necessity of referring it, calling for swift
handling of the file and avoiding further wasted time because, in his view, the
country is paying the price for slowness in executing decisions.
The Decision is Made in Beirut: For his part, Minister of Foreign Affairs and
Emigrants Youssef Raggi affirmed that "no state has the right to seek its
regional ambitions through armed groups operating outside the authority of
states and their legitimate institutions." This came during a speech delivered
at the Mediterranean special session of the Manama Dialogue, titled "The Eastern
Mediterranean: Crossroads of Continents and Bridge to the Gulf." Raggi stated
that "for long years, Lebanon has experienced the destructive results of armed
groups turning into instruments of foreign influence and national
decision-making submitting to regional calculations," pointing out that "ties
with the Gulf states have proven resilient, even amid tensions generated by
those who mortgaged Lebanon's interests for calculations that do not concern us
and that we did not want." He stressed that "decisions restricting arms to the
state and banning Hezbollah's military and security activities are not merely
political stances or declarations of intent," emphasizing that "Lebanon will no
longer accept its territory being used as a platform to threaten the security of
its Arab brothers, or to turn into a forward line of defense for the interests
of other states." Raggi added: "Foreign policy is set in Beirut, and national
security is decided by the state alone," pointing out that "restoring full
Lebanese sovereignty requires an Israeli withdrawal from occupied Lebanese lands
and the full implementation of Resolution 1701."
Airstrikes and Explosions: On the southern battlefield, an Israeli drone
exploded this afternoon inside an inhabited house in the town of Mayfadoun; no
casualties were reported. A drone targeted another house in Mayfadoun and
exploded inside it without causing casualties. Then, another Israeli drone
exploded in an inhabited house on the outskirts of Mayfadoun, followed by
another drone targeting and exploding in a different house. This brings the
total to four suicide drones exploding in four homes in less than twenty minutes
in Mayfadoun. The area between the towns of Zautar al-Sharqiyya and Mayfadoun
was also subjected to intermittent hostile artillery shelling. At midday,
Israeli warplanes launched an airstrike targeting the area between Nabatieh al-Faouqa
and Kfar Tebnit. An Israeli drone executed a strike with a guided missile on the
Kfar Tebnit - Nabatieh roundabout. Israeli warplanes also launched an airstrike
on the outskirts of the town of Hadatha in the Bint Jbeil district. Enemy
artillery shelled the outskirts of Mayfadoun and Nabatieh al-Faouqa. Shelling
also hit the towns of Kounine, Serbine, and Beit Lif, as well as the outskirts
of Hadatha and Hariss in the Bint Jbeil district, and Tallouseh and the
outskirts of Qantara toward Wadi al-Hujair in the Marjayoun district. An
incursion by a military force toward Wadi Shebaa was detected, while the enemy
army continues work to establish a military road toward Wadi Shebaa. Earlier
this morning, an airstrike targeted Wadi al-Salouqi, and Israeli forces opened
heavy machine-gun fire toward the woods in Wadi al-Hujair and the vicinity of
the town of Shaqra. Israeli warplanes carried out three airstrikes: the first
targeted the area between Nabatieh al-Faouqa and Kfar Tebnit in the Nabatieh
district, the second targeted the outskirts of the town of Baraachit in the Bint
Jbeil district, and the third targeted the area between the towns of Adchit al-Qousseir
and Taybeh in the Marjayoun district. A morning strike targeted Mahmoud Ali
Ismail's four-story house in Baraachit. The Israeli army also conducted a
demolition/explosion operation in the town of Tallouseh, Marjayoun district,
while a drone flew at a low altitude over the towns of the district.
Electricity and Beirut Airport: On another front, the electricity crisis sparked
a confrontation between the Ministry of Energy and Rafic Hariri International
Airport. In this context, the Ministry of Energy and Water stressed in a
statement that the problem is not with Rafic Hariri International Airport—which
serves as Lebanon's gateway to the world and a vital facility for the national
economy—but rather with the principle of evading responsibilities and financial
obligations. The Ministry confirmed that the decision to cut power to defaulting
entities is not an emotional reaction, nor a punitive or arbitrary measure, but
rather a necessary measure falling under the principle of "last resort remedy."
It was taken only after weeks and months of repeated calls issued by Minister of
Energy and Water Joe Saddi and the Board of Directors of Électricité du Liban (EDL)
to all concerned parties, urging them to assume their responsibilities and
settle their outstanding financial dues. Accordingly, demanding accountability
and the payment of dues is neither a threat, an attack, nor a malicious action;
it is a legal and financial duty and an essential prerequisite to ensure the
continuity of public service and the regularity of its operations. Thus, the
equation remains clear and simple: paying for consumed electrical power is what
enables EDL to secure the necessary funds to purchase fuel and ensure the
continuity of electricity supply to the airport, other facilities, institutions,
and citizens across Lebanon.
Fate of Deposits: On the financial side, Banque du Liban (BDL) held a series of
closed consultative meetings in Paris on October 27 and 28, 2026, with the
participation of a number of banks selected by the Association of Banks in
Lebanon (ABL), and in the presence of BDL's financial advisors, specifically
"Rothschild & Cie," to discuss core issues related to the implementation of any
future law for financial stability and deposit recovery. The discussions focused
on two main tracks:
Bank Recapitalization and Addressing Losses: Discussions covered
recapitalization requirements for banks to enable them to resume future
operations, as well as absorbing losses resulting from imbalances and irregular
claims previously identified by BDL and to be further specified under the
provisions of the upcoming law.
Assessment of Available and Future Liquidity: Deliberations addressed current
and future liquidity levels in the banking system, including assets owned and
held by both BDL and commercial banks that are convertible into cash, with the
aim of determining the actual resources available to meet obligations for paying
back deposits to their owners.
Strategic Directives from Khamenei: On the regional front, Iranian media
reported that Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei held a meeting with senior
commanders of the country's armed forces, during which he issued strategic
directives regarding the upcoming phase. According to media reports, Khamenei
called on his military commanders to respond to enemy threats without
geographical restrictions, emphasizing that all assets belonging to the enemy
will be within Iran's target bank, and that the response to any aggression will
be immediate and effective. He affirmed that Iran will determine the timing and
terms of ending any new conflict should enemies resume military or terrorist
attacks. He stated that Iran seeks to establish a new political and security
order in West Asia, considering precise combat readiness a requirement for
maximum deterrence to confront enemies decisively, and that the unity of the
"Axis of Resistance" is a strategic imperative in the battle.
Positive Nuclear Atmosphere: Not far off, sources reported that committees were
formed to discuss U.S. proposals regarding the Iranian nuclear program,
following a positive message from U.S. Vice President JD Vance. Sources reported
that an Iranian delegation is present in Qatar to discuss matters requiring
additional clarification, noting that a positive atmosphere prevails over the
course of negotiations amid expectations of a breakthrough in the coming period.
The sources explained that Iran requested guarantees regarding a permanent and
comprehensive end to the war in exchange for opening the Strait of Hormuz,
pointing out that discussions are taking place regarding sequential steps, and a
full proposal has not yet crystallized.
Syria Toward the Mecca Agreement: Regionally, Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Sheibani
emphasized Syria's cooperation with Iraq, Lebanon, and Jordan to ensure border
stability. He stressed that "geography is destiny and integration is a choice,"
confirming that Syria stands as an impenetrable wall preventing Syrian territory
from being used as a platform to target neighboring countries or undermine
regional stability. Al-Sheibani confirmed that Syria is evaluating the
possibility of joining the Mecca Defense Agreement, concluded by Saudi Arabia,
Pakistan, and Turkey, noting that "there are ongoing discussions currently to
evaluate Syria's entry into the Mecca alliance."
Lebanon elected to lead International Civil Defence
Organization General Assembly for 2026–2028
LBCI/October 31/2026
Lebanon, represented by Brigadier General Imad Khreish, has been elected
president of the General Assembly of the International Civil Defence
Organization (ICDO) for the 2026–2028 term. Lebanon was also elected to the
organization’s Executive Council for the 2026–2030 term during the 27th session
of the General Assembly, held in Geneva on October 29, 2026, marking an
international achievement for the country. The election reflects international
confidence in Lebanon and its civil defense expertise, while strengthening the
country’s role in shaping global policies and advancing cooperation in civil
protection, disaster management, and emergency response.
EDL: Beirut Airport commits to settling unpaid electricity bills to avoid power
cut
LBCI/October 31/2026
Electricité du Liban (EDL) announced that Beirut's Rafic Hariri International
Airport has committed to settling its outstanding electricity bills to avoid a
power cut. In a statement, EDL’s Board of Directors said the Directorate General
of Civil Aviation contacted the utility following warnings issued to public
institutions and administrations with unpaid electricity bills, including Beirut
Airport. The directorate pledged to make an immediate payment, arrange a payment
schedule for its outstanding debts, and regularly pay its monthly electricity
bills starting this month. EDL also urged other public institutions and
administrations with outstanding payments to follow the airport's example and
settle their financial obligations with the utility.
Lebanon’s electricity crisis takes a new turn as EDL
threatens to cut power to state institutions: The details
LBCI/October 31/2026
For years, paying electricity bills has often been treated as a low priority in
Lebanon. What happens when bills go unpaid? In many cases, nothing. More
surprisingly, this culture of nonpayment extends to state institutions
themselves, which are supposed to set an example for citizens.
Government ministries and public institutions have funds allocated for
electricity in their budgets, yet they fail to pay their bills. But the
responsibility does not lie solely with those who fail to pay. For years,
Electricité du Liban (EDL) has taken limited measures to enforce bill
collection, while the government has failed to find solutions to resolve the
issue, arguing that public institutions cannot be left without electricity. This
time, however, following repeated warnings, EDL’s board of directors has decided
to cut electricity supplies to institutions that have failed to settle their
outstanding bills, starting Monday morning, November 2. Some institutions have
paid their bills, including the Defense Ministry, the Lebanese Army, the
presidential palace and the prime minister’s office. However, outstanding
payments still total approximately $240 million, including $130 million owed by
water authorities alone. Among the entities that have yet to pay are the
Telecommunications Ministry, Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport,
regional water authorities and the Beirut municipality, among others. According
to LBCI sources, meetings were held Saturday with the relevant authorities and
will continue Sunday in an effort to reach settlements before the scheduled
power cuts.
Beirut airport, however, faces a slightly different situation.
It has accumulated unpaid electricity bills from previous years, while a new
administration headed by Mohammad Chtayla is set to take office December 1. In
the meantime, bills are being collected and outstanding payments reviewed to
organize the payment process. According to an EDL statement, the Directorate
General of Civil Aviation has committed to making an immediate payment,
arranging a repayment schedule for outstanding debts and paying its monthly
electricity bills regularly, allowing the airport to avoid a power cut. Public
Works Minister Fayez Rasamny told LBCI that the airport would settle its
outstanding bills using its own revenues once the new board takes
office.Meanwhile, the Cabinet has decided to prepare draft legislation
allocating $100 million from the 2026 budget reserve to help public institutions
settle their electricity bills. The draft legislation is expected to be
submitted to Parliament on Monday for approval. But what happens if these
institutions remain behind on payments and their electricity is cut off? They
are unlikely to remain without power. Instead, they would turn to private
generators, which would cost more than electricity supplied by EDL.Would it not
make more sense to settle their bills and benefit from cheaper electricity?
Power cuts could also disrupt water pumping in certain areas, affect
telecommunications services and delay administrative procedures for citizens.
But how long will concerns over these consequences continue to serve as a
justification for inaction? The latest developments mark the beginning of a
solution and demonstrate that progress is possible when there is a willingness
to pay. Electricity is not a luxury. It is a service that comes at a cost, and
paying for it is an obligation, not a choice.
Salam Monitors the Situation in Rmeich: Supporting the
Resilience of Residents and Addressing Basic Needs
Janoubia/October 31, 2026
Hanna Al-Amil, the Mayor of Rmeich, held a telephone conversation with Prime
Minister Nawaf Salam to brief him on the situation in the town and its
surrounding villages, highlighting the challenges currently faced by the local
residents. During the call, Salam commended the resilience of the people of
Rmeich and their steadfast commitment to their land and their right to remain on
it. He emphasized the importance of supporting the residents and strengthening
the foundations of their resilience within their towns. The discussion covered
the town’s most pressing needs—foremost among them the provision of diesel fuel
for public facilities to ensure their continued operation and service
delivery—as well as the expansion of support programs provided by the Ministry
of Social Affairs, allowing a greater number of residents to benefit from them.
This communication is part of an ongoing effort to monitor the situation in
Rmeich and neighboring towns, and to explore ways to secure essential needs for
the population and public facilities, thereby bolstering the residents'
resilience and helping them remain on their land.
The Latest English LCCC Miscellaneous Reports And News
published on October 31-November 01/2026/
(Some of the News reports below are
translated from Arabic by AI)
Mojtaba Khamenei directs his military
leaders: Respond to threats without geographical restrictions and the Iranian
Army warns of wider war if a new US attack is launched
Riyadh: Al Arabiya.net and Agencies / 31 Oct / 2026
The Iranian Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, announced on Saturday some
strategic directives to his military leaders, according to a statement
attributed to him published on his channel on "Telegram". During a meeting with
his top military leaders, the Iranian leader demanded that "the response to
enemy threats be without geographical restrictions," indicating that "all assets
belonging to the enemy will be within the bank of Iranian targets." He said that
"the response to any aggression will be immediate and effective," stressing that
"the unity of the Axis of Resistance is a strategic matter in the battle."
Mojtaba Khamenei stressed to his military leaders "the continuation of efforts
to meet the living needs of the people." He also said: "We seek to form a new
political and security system in West Asia."Khamenei added that Iran will
determine the date and conditions for ending any new conflict in the event that
"the enemies resume military or terrorist attacks," in his words. He also
ordered the armed forces to update the list of targets to include "all American
and Israeli material and moral assets," within the scope of strikes. Khamenei
also ordered the armed forces to increase production of ammunition and weapons
for reconnaissance, support and combat operations, and called on the armed
forces to enhance military intelligence capabilities and develop local defense
capabilities. This comes as the Iranian Army warned on Saturday that any new
American attack would lead to an expansion of the war, following American and
Israeli threats to launch additional military operations, in the midst of
crucial electoral entitlements in both countries. The Iranian warning comes as
new diplomatic efforts continue to avoid resumption of fighting, with Qatari
mediators in Tehran and reports that US Vice President J.D. Vance sent a message
to the Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council Mohsen Rezaei. The
spokesman for the Iranian Army, Mohammad Akrami Nia, said in a post on the "X"
platform: "If the American president again embarks on new regional adventures"
in an attempt to appease Israel, then "the fires of war will undoubtedly reach a
much wider geographical area," without providing additional details. Iranian
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also warned on Saturday that "the Iranian armed
forces will confront anyone who dares to harm our people." A Qatari delegation
arrived Friday in the Iranian capital for talks with senior Iranian officials.
Qatar and Pakistan are mediating between the warring parties, but talks have not
yet led to a permanent agreement. The Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday
that Vance sent his message to Rezaei at the direction of President Donald
Trump, in an attempt to revive negotiations and avoid additional US strikes.
Iran confirmed receipt of the message, but did not announce any response to it.
The United States is holding midterm elections on Tuesday that could determine
the course of the war, which is unpopular with American voters, after it caused
a sharp rise in energy prices. Israel also held legislative elections last
Tuesday that were a test for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Under Netanyahu, who pledged to overthrow the Iranian government, Israel
and Iran engaged in direct military confrontations after decades of shadow war.
The war in the Middle East began in late February with US-Israeli strikes
on Iran that killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and senior military leaders.
Iran responded by targeting American sites throughout the Middle East, as well
as Israel. Fighting has recently focused on the Strait of Hormuz, a vital
shipping lane for energy exports in the Gulf, which Iran has restricted since
the start of the war. In response, the United States is imposing a blockade on
Iranian ports in an attempt to pressure the country's economy.
Chief of Staff of the Iranian Army: Ready to respond
without geographical restrictions... "New list of American and Israeli targets
in a wider geographical scope"
Riyadh: Al Arabiya.net and Agencies / 31 Oct / 2026
The Chief of the General Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, Major General Ali
Abdollahi, said: "The armed forces... will stand until death in the face of any
aggression, whatever its level or type." Abdollahi
added, today Saturday, in statements reported by the Iranian Fars News Agency:
"In compliance with the orders of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces...
we are ready... to confront the American and Zionist enemies with force and
intensity and without geographical restrictions, using modern and advanced
equipment and technologies, and this readiness will certainly increase day by
day." Abdollahi threatened his country's adversaries saying: "In the event of a
new aggression against the country... they will face a new approach and an
unimaginable response, which will certainly be more severe and more impactful
than it was during the Third Imposed War, and we are the ones who will determine
the end of the war and draw it with your end." The Chief of Staff confirmed that
the Iranian armed forces: "have put a new bank of enemy targets and assets
within a wider geographical scope than before on their agenda, and will confront
enemies with new surprises on the field."These statements come amid a series of
defiant statements issued today, most notably the directives of the Supreme
Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei. Khamenei announced Saturday some strategic directives
to his military leaders, according to a statement attributed to him published on
his channel on "Telegram". During a meeting with his top military leaders, the
Iranian leader demanded that "the response to enemy threats be without
geographical restrictions," indicating that "all assets belonging to the enemy
will be within the bank of Iranian targets." He said that "the response to any
aggression will be immediate and effective," stressing that "the unity of the
Axis of Resistance is a strategic matter in the battle." Mojtaba Khamenei
stressed to his military leaders "the continuation of efforts to meet the living
needs of the people." He also said: "We seek to form a new political and
security system in West Asia." Khamenei added that Iran will determine the date
and conditions for ending any new conflict in the event that "the enemies resume
military or terrorist attacks," in his words.
Rubio puts Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab at the top of Washington's priorities
Janoubia / 31 Oct / 2026
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio placed the security of the Straits of Hormuz
and Bab al-Mandab at the heart of the strategic and economic priorities of the
United States, stressing the need to keep the two vital sea lanes safe and open
to international trade, given their critical importance to energy markets and
global supply chains. Rubio's position came in a statement he published via his
account on the "X" platform, at the conclusion of the G20 foreign ministers'
meetings, where he stressed that ensuring the security of supply chains is a
fundamental pillar for achieving economic growth and maintaining the stability
of global trade. Rubio said he made clear to US partners, during the G20
meetings, that securing supply chains is an essential condition for achieving
economic growth, pointing to the importance of protecting international trade
routes from any disruptions that could hinder the movement of goods and vital
resources. In this context, the US Secretary of State specifically mentioned the
Straits of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab, given their strategic location and pivotal
role in global trade and energy movement, stressing: "Vital trade routes,
including the Strait of Hormuz and the Strait of Bab al-Mandab, must remain safe
and open to international trade." Rubio's statements were not limited to the
security of sea lanes, but also addressed the need to continue strengthening and
expanding critical mineral supply chains, in reference to the importance of
ensuring the flow of essential resources for strategic industries and economic
sectors. This reflects Washington's interest in securing sources of raw
materials and protecting supply chains from risks and disruptions, to ensure
continuity of economic activity and enhance long-term American interests.
Rubio's statements are particularly important amid escalating regional tensions,
and associated concerns about the security of navigation in vital sea lanes,
especially the Strait of Hormuz, which is a major artery for oil and energy
trade, and Bab al-Mandab, which is an essential gateway for navigation between
the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean. Any disruption in either of
these straits would not be limited to surrounding countries, but could extend to
energy markets, shipping prices, international trade and supply chains.
Between affirming freedom of navigation and calling for protection of
vital resources, Washington's message seems clear: the security of Hormuz and
Bab al-Mandab is not just a regional issue, but an essential part of global
economic security calculations and American strategic interests.
Break through expected as Iran studies US proposals amid
'positive' atmosphere
Naharnet/October 31/2026
Iran is studying the U.S. proposals contained in a letter from U.S. Vice
President JD Vance, amid a positive atmosphere surrounding the path of
negotiations and expectations of a breakthrough in the coming period, sources
told Al-Arabiya television on Saturday. The sources added that Vance's proposals
are receiving a positive response within Iran, noting that the letter included
general principles and outlines for negotiation and did not include a complete
plan. The sources explained that Tehran has formed committees to discuss the
U.S. proposals regarding its nuclear program, while an Iranian delegation is in
Qatar to discuss matters that require additional clarifications. They emphasized
that the discussions are taking place regarding successive steps, and a complete
proposal has not yet matured. They explained that communication with the
Secretary of the Iranian Supreme National Security Council, Mohsen Rezaee, and
the mediators is being conducted directly. The sources stated that Iran
requested guarantees regarding a permanent and comprehensive cessation of the
war in exchange for opening the Strait of Hormuz. They added that there are
expectations of holding a new round of negotiations, but it is too early to
determine its date.
Iran's army warns any new US attack would spread war wider
Agence France Presse/October 31/2026
Iran's army warned Saturday that any new U.S. attack would only spread their war
wider, following threats by America and Israel of further military action as
they hold crucial elections. The Iranian warning comes with fresh diplomatic
efforts underway to avert a resumption of fighting, with Qatari mediators in
Tehran and U.S. Vice President JD Vance reportedly sending a letter to Iran's
security chief Mohsen Rezaei. "If the U.S. president once again embarks on more
regional adventurism under pressure from, and in an attempt to appease, the
Zionists, the flames of war will undoubtedly engulf a much wider geographical
area," Iranian army spokesman Mohammad Akraminia said in a post on X, without
elaborating. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also warned on Saturday
that "Iran's Powerful Armed Forces will deal against those who dare harm our
people".On Friday, a Qatari delegation arrived in the Iranian capital for talks
with senior Iranian officials. Qatar and Pakistan have been mediating between
the warring parties, but the talks have yet to produce a lasting agreement. The
Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday that Vance had sent his letter to
Iran's security chief at the direction of President Donald Trump in a bid to
revive negotiations and avert further U.S. strikes. Iran has confirmed receiving
the letter but has not announced any response. The U.S. holds midterm elections
on Tuesday that could determine the direction of the war, which has proven
unpopular with American voters following a spike in energy prices due to the
conflict. Last Tuesday, Israel also held legislative elections, with voters
given a chance to offer a verdict on right-wing Prime Minister Benjamin
Netanyahu. Under Netanyahu, who has vowed to topple Iran's government, Israel
and Iran have engaged in direct military confrontations after decades of shadow
war. The Middle East war began in late February with U.S.-Israeli strikes on
Iran that killed the country's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as well as
senior military commanders. Iran in response targeted U.S. assets across the
Middle East as well as Israel. Most recently hostilities have focused on the
Strait of Hormuz, a crucial Gulf shipping route for energy exports that Iran has
blockaded since the start of the war. The U.S. has in retaliation been
blockading Iranian ports in an attempt to squeeze the nation's economy.
Qataris hold marathon talks in Tehran seeking US-Iran deal before midterms
Naharnet/October 31/2026
Qatari mediators held talks in Tehran for more than 12 hours on Friday in an
effort to reach a deal to restart direct negotiations between the U.S. and Iran
and avoid an outbreak of war after the midterms, diplomatic sources told U.S.
news portal Axios.The discussions will continue in Doha, Qatar, on Saturday.A
diplomatic source told Axios that Qatari mediators were in regular contact with
the White House during Friday's daylong session. "There was positive progress.
Talks are still ongoing in an effort to unlock a deal between the U.S. and
Iran," the source said. The Qataris are prodding the U.S. and Iran to agree on a
set of reciprocal steps that would be implemented over a few days and get the
parties back to direct talks on the Iranian nuclear program and other issues. A
U.S. official said two competing demands have stymied the talks so far: the
Trump administration's insistence that Iran make nuclear concessions as part of
resuming talks, and Iran's stipulation that the U.S. first lift its naval
blockade, release frozen funds and allow it to sell oil. "The Qataris are trying
to convince Iran to allow U.N. inspectors to visit its bombed nuclear sites as a
confidence-building measure that the U.S. would respond to with some sanctions
relief," Axios said. Inside Trump's inner circle, there are different opinions
on what he should do. "Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State
Marco Rubio are highly skeptical that any nuclear agreement can be reached with
the current Iranian regime. They think Trump's legacy should be to weaken the
regime even more, including with further strikes," a U.S. official told Axios.
The person said that while Vice President Vance and Trump envoys Steve Witkoff
and Jared Kushner want to resume negotiations, Trump is skeptical Iran will ever
agree to a deal he finds acceptable. "There are talks. They want to talk. They
keep talking. ... We have time, frankly. It's a war, but it is not a typical
war," Trump told reporters on Friday. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who
is leading an economic pressure campaign dubbed "Operation Economic Outcast," is
one of Trump's closest aides urging him to let the initiative play out rather
than rush back into combat. Countries in the region like Egypt, Turkey, Iraq,
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have been urging Iran to agree to resume negotiations
before the midterms, a regional source said. One U.S. official said Trump might
be more inclined to order a major military operation if Republicans lose badly
in the midterms. "If he feels embarrassed or disenfranchised he will do
something bold. That's what everyone are telling the Iranians. Their best shot
to get a deal is right now," the official told Axios. A White House official
said the election results won't be a factor in Trump's decision-making about
Iran. According to Axios, the leaders of Saudi Arabia and Turkey urged Trump in
recent days to allow more time for diplomacy. At the same time, Israeli Prime
Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is lobbying Trump to launch a joint operation
against Iran immediately after the election. Renewed war could lead to massive
destruction not only in Iran but in Gulf countries, exacerbating the global
energy crisis. Iran has vowed to respond to any U.S. strikes on its energy
infrastructure by attacking oil and gas facilities in Saudi Arabia, the UAE,
Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain. "Any U.S. attack on Iran would be conducted jointly
with Israel. Iran would likely retaliate with missile strikes, while Hezbollah
could also wage attacks on Israel," Axios said.
From oil tankers to fishing boats... Strait of Hormuz faces
dangerous escalation!
Janoubia / 31 Oct / 2026
The scope of tension in the Strait of Hormuz is widening, with security
incidents moving from oil tankers and commercial ships to fishing boats, in a
development that raises fears of a widening confrontation in one of the most
important sea lanes in the world. In the latest developments, Iran accused US
forces of targeting two fishing boats near Qeshm Island, resulting in two
fishermen injured and two others missing before they were later found, while
Washington has not issued any official comment on the accusations.
Iranian Radio and Television quoted the deputy governor of Hormozgan,
Ahmad Nafisi, as saying that the US Army launched an attack at around 11:30 am
on two fishing boats near Qeshm Island, with two people on board each. Nafisi
explained that the incident resulted in two fishermen being injured and taken to
the island for treatment, while the other two fishermen were initially declared
missing, before Iranian media later confirmed they were found. According to Fars
Agency, the two boats, belonging to fishermen from Qeshm, were attacked by a
drone about 25 kilometers south of the island. In
contrast, Washington has not yet issued any official account of the incident or
clarification regarding the Iranian accusations, leaving the circumstances of
the targeting within the framework of the narrative reported by Iranian media.
The fishing boat incident does not come in isolation from a series of security
developments witnessed in the Strait of Hormuz recently, as the IRGC Navy
announced Friday that four oil tankers were exposed to explosions and fires
while trying to cross the strait via what it described as unauthorized routes.
The Iranian Navy indicated that one of the tankers, which was carrying about two
million barrels of crude oil, hit a sea mine, in an incident that reflects the
scale of risks facing navigation in the region. In a separate incident, the UK
Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported receiving a report of an incident in
the Strait of Hormuz, about 74 kilometers south of the Iranian island of Lavan.
The authority reported that a crude oil tanker was hit by an unknown projectile
while exiting the strait, confirming that its crew members are safe, and that
the incident did not cause environmental damage. This
incident adds a new event to the record of escalating maritime tensions, amid
continuing risks threatening commercial ships and energy tankers crossing the
strategic passage. The Strait of Hormuz has witnessed
increasing security escalation since the US and Israeli strikes on Iran in late
February, with increasing incidents affecting ships and oil tankers, down to
local fishing boats. These developments are particularly important given the
strategic location of the strait, which is a major passage for global oil trade,
making any security disruption there a factor affecting energy supplies and
international navigation. Between Iranian accusations and targeting of ships,
and the absence of American clarifications regarding some incidents, the risks
in the Strait of Hormuz appear to be widening, while diplomatic efforts continue
to contain the escalation and prevent it from turning into a wider regional
confrontation.
From radars to soldiers' bedrooms... How did Iran hit US
bases and inflict billions of dollars in damage?
Janoubia / 31 Oct / 2026
An investigative report conducted by the American Wall Street Journal revealed
the extent of damage inflicted by Iranian attacks on US military bases in the
Middle East, based on tens of thousands of satellite images, military data and
interviews with American officials. The results of the investigation showed that
Iranian strikes were not limited to major military installations, but extended
to smaller buildings, including soldiers' accommodation and sleeping quarters,
in a development that reflects an improvement in targeting accuracy and Tehran's
ability to reach distant military sites.
According to the investigation, prepared by journalists Annika Arora Seth, Jon
West, Shelby Holiday and Lara Seligman, damage was observed in 274 buildings and
facilities distributed across 24 military sites during the first six months of
the war. The Pentagon estimated base losses at no less than $5 billion, with the
possibility of rising to $15 billion. These figures are in addition to the total
cost of the war, which amounted to $47.1 billion until October 16, according to
a document seen by the newspaper. The Center for Strategic and International
Studies in Washington also estimated the cost of reconstructing damaged
buildings alone at more than $4 billion, not counting equipment and military
systems inside them. Iran began its attacks with the outbreak of war on February
28, targeting US bases in the Gulf, especially in Kuwait, Bahrain and Saudi
Arabia. During the first two weeks, at least 119 buildings in 13 military
facilities were damaged, most of them in Kuwait. The US Fifth Fleet headquarters
in Bahrain was also heavily bombed, prompting US Central Command to evacuate
most military personnel from it.
Despite US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announcing on March 13 that Iranian
ballistic missile production capabilities had been virtually destroyed, Tehran
continued to carry out its attacks. By early April, satellite images showed
damage to more than 15 components of radar, missile defense and communications
systems that protect US bases. With a fragile ceasefire coming into effect in
April, strikes declined, while the US military began redistributing its forces.
Hegseth revealed before Congress that Washington had moved 7,500 military
personnel away from known bases since the start of operations, while Iranian
attacks led to the evacuation of most US forces from Camp Buehring and Camp
Arifjan in Kuwait. The most prominent shift appeared after the collapse of the
ceasefire on July 7, when Iran shifted its focus westward, towards bases
hundreds of miles from its borders, and began targeting smaller buildings,
including housing units for military personnel. On July 17, an Iranian strike
hit Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan, killing three American soldiers and
damaging at least 19 residential buildings. During the same week, damage was
observed in similar buildings inside three other military installations, raising
concerns among US officials that Iran was deliberately targeting soldiers'
sleeping quarters. The newspaper's analysis concluded that the size of buildings
hit by Iranian strikes after July became less than half the size of previous
targets, an indicator of improved targeting accuracy. Iranian state-linked media
also announced more than 40 strikes against US facilities between July 7 and
August 28, with a doubling of announcements related to targeting military
accommodation. The investigation quoted defense
analyst Brian Carter as saying there is a clear Iranian effort to inflict human
casualties among US forces. According to US Department of Defense data, more
than 20 American military personnel have been killed in war-related activities
since February 28, while more than 400 others were injured before the collapse
of the ceasefire in July, when Washington stopped publishing separate statistics
for war losses. In a development reflecting the scale of American concern, the
investigation revealed that the Pentagon considered moving some of its bases to
locations further from the range of Iranian missiles, and reducing its military
presence in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, amid fears that this would expose
Washington's allies to greater risks. Democratic Senator Chris Murphy also
accused the American administration of hiding the true cost of the war, after he
was prevented from visiting Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, where satellite images
showed damage to at least 12 buildings inside it. In contrast, the Department of
Defense attributed the prevention of the visit to restrictions imposed on
movement in the region. These data are particularly
important in light of President Donald Trump's consideration of launching a new
wave of attacks on Iran, amid American fears that Tehran retains advanced
missiles it has not yet used, and its ability to rebuild missile production
facilities and extract its buried arsenal, at a time when the United States has
depleted part of its stock of interceptor missiles. The investigation's results
indicate that US strikes did not prevent Iran from continuing to target military
bases, while Tehran has shown an increasing ability to reach more distant and
more accurate targets. This puts the American military deployment in the Middle
East in front of escalating financial and military challenges, and raises
questions about the cost of any new confrontation for Washington.
Secretary of Iran's National Security Council: We have not
made a new decision regarding changing the nuclear doctrine... "I have not yet
responded to the message of the US Vice President"
Riyadh: Al Arabiya.net and Agencies / 31 Oct / 2026
The Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, Major General Mohsen
Rezaei, said that he has not yet responded to the message of the US Vice
President. Iran's Tasnim News Agency reported that the Secretary of the Supreme
National Security Council said in a television statement: I have read the
message, and I have not responded to it yet. Rezaei added saying: "The tone has
completely changed, and this is of course a very good indicator that the people
of Iran have consolidated their victory." He added: "Let us proceed now, since
they have not presented or revealed anything of the content of the message, and
I also will not say anything at the present time." He added, we have not made a
new decision regarding changing the nuclear doctrine. He added: "Of course, this
discussion is now on the table and it is: If war breaks out again, do we want to
keep the same previous doctrine or not. But no new decision has been taken
officially and governmentally." He continued saying: "However, the Iranian
people have demands, and are looking for some logic. They see in the end that
the enemy has come and struck all of our nuclear facilities. For what reason did
it strike them? We are subject to all inspections of the International Agency,
and we have given positive responses. And we helped them to come and carry out
inspections. And there were not cameras in all of our sites. But when people see
these things, their demand from us is naturally: For what do you want to
continue on this path?"
These statements come in light of continued tension between Washington and
Tehran, and increasing diplomatic moves aimed at resuming negotiations between
the two sides and containing escalation. Media reports
had reported that US Vice President J.D. Vance sent a message to Rezaei, aiming
to explore the possibility of reviving negotiations between the two countries,
while Iranian media confirmed Tehran's receipt of the message and not responding
to it yet. Disputes between the two sides revolve around a number of files, most
notably the Iranian nuclear program, US sanctions, frozen Iranian assets, the
blockade imposed on Iranian ports, as well as navigation security in the Strait
of Hormuz. The Secretary of the Supreme National
Security Council added: In the Tehran Quartet meeting, the four parties firmly
announced their positions against the Zionist entity, and it was decided to
continue these meetings, and God willing this meeting will be the beginning of
new arrangements in West Asia and the countries of the region taking charge of
their own security. In response to a question about
negotiations and recent diplomatic moves, Major General Mohsen Rezaei answered:
The latest diplomacy began more than a month ago; The Americans insist on
negotiating, but we said there is no negotiation with you, and we announced that
unless our conditions are implemented the strait will not be opened and we will
not negotiate. We announced that we must see a change in American behavior, and
working by the seven conditions can be indicators of this change.
Rezaei confirmed: We are determined to end the war in a way that no one
will dare after that to attack Iran, and we stand strongly to obtain the rights
of the Iranian people. Some ask: Do you have something to take such strict
positions? I say: Yes, we have what will break America's horn if it undertakes
any act; and if the enemy commits any foolishness, it will face terrifying
strikes and a defense that inspires pride. Regarding
the seven conditions and their difference from the Islamabad understanding,
Major General Rezaei answered: There were ambiguities in the Islamabad
understanding that led to interpretations and explanations; such as the
administration of the Strait of Hormuz and receipt of financial amounts, and
these ambiguities have been removed in the seven conditions.
In response to a question about the possibility of dialogue in the
nuclear field, he answered: We are members of the Treaty on the
Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and we have twenty-two rights, and if
it is decided to conduct a nuclear dialogue then we will demand our rights,
therefore we stand strongly to achieve the rights of the Iranian people, and
certainly we also take the issue of time into consideration. We are now waiting
for the Americans' response; and the Strait of Hormuz cannot be reopened except
in the event of working with Iran's seven conditions.
Rubio: Trump has not "made a decision" regarding a new
military operation against Iran... "The US administration is engaged in many
consultations about the situation surrounding Iran"
Riyadh: Al Arabiya.net and Agencies / 31 Oct / 2026
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Saturday that President Donald Trump has
not made a decision about directing new strikes against Iran amid stalled talks
to end the war. Rubio said during a press conference
during the G20 summit in the city of Atlanta in the state of Georgia "We can
achieve the military objectives if we seek to do so." He added "He (Trump) has
not made a decision yet" regarding additional military measures, amid reports
that he may launch an attack after the crucial midterm elections on Tuesday.
Rubio continued "I have no announcement in this regard today, and we do not take
any of that lightly." While he strongly criticized Iran for targeting commercial
ships in an "intentional and declared" manner, the US Secretary of State
expressed Trump's preference to reach a diplomatic solution to end the war. But
he did not commit to a timetable for talks. Rubio said "I will not give a
description of progress made in those talks, nor any time frame for them, other
than saying that we will be open to reaching a diplomatic solution if possible."
This comes as Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei warned Saturday
the United States and Israel against launching new attacks on his country.
Regional challenges top talks between Saudi Foreign
Minister and his American counterpart... America signs contract for its
participation in Expo 2030 Riyadh as an official participant
Riyadh: Al Arabiya.net / 31 Oct / 2026
The Saudi Foreign Minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, met with his American
counterpart, Marco Rubio, on the sidelines of the meeting of foreign ministers
of the G20 countries held in the city of Atlanta in the United States of
America. The meeting addressed the strategic relations that bring together the
Kingdom and the United States, and ways to develop joint cooperation in priority
areas, in addition to exchanging views on current regional issues, and efforts
made to deal with challenges witnessed in the region.
Following the meeting, the two sides signed a contract for the participation of
the United States of America in Expo 2030 Riyadh, as an "official participant,"
giving both sides a formal framework to proceed with their preparations for the
Expo, and embodying Expo 2030 Riyadh's keenness to consolidate international
cooperation and enhance partnerships with participating countries.
Republican Party Chairman bets on 5 crucial states in the
Senate / Chairman of the Republican National Committee expects victories in 5
crucial races for the US Senate
Al Arabiya.net - Bandar Al-Doushi / 31 Oct / 2026
The Chairman of the Republican National Committee, Joe Gruters, expected the
victory of his party's candidates in 5 crucial races for seats in the US Senate,
in the midterm elections scheduled next week, despite poll indicators showing
Democrats leading. Gruters said, in an interview with "News Nation" network, on
Friday evening, that he expects Republicans to win in the states of Maine,
Texas, Ohio and Alaska, in addition to North Carolina, considering that his
party has fielded candidates capable of winning, and who have moderate positions
close to voters' orientations. Gruters' expectations came despite the fact that
the Decision Desk HQ (DDHQ), the non-partisan election forecasting specialist
partner of " The Hill" website, classifies the first four races as leaning by a
small margin in favor of Democrats, while it predicts Democrats winning in North
Carolina. When Gruters was asked about general voting polls that show
Republicans trailing, he pointed to a poll conducted by Emerson College and its
results published Friday, which showed Democrats leading Republicans by 10
percentage points, in a hypothetical question about which party voters prefer in
congressional elections.
Gruters said: "We have presented candidates capable of winning, and moderate
candidates who proceed from sound logic, and I think that will make a
difference. Perhaps we do not achieve good results in general voting polls, but
we have an advantage when it comes to well-known candidates capable of
delivering their message." In contrast, the latest forecast from Decision Desk
HQ, issued Friday, showed that Democrats' chances of regaining control of the
House of Representatives are 82%, while their chances of regaining the majority
in the Senate are about 62%.
The Chairman of the Republican National Committee addressed Trump's retraction
of his decision to cancel two election rallies that were scheduled during the
weekend in the states of Iowa and Kansas, after he announced Friday reorganizing
them in person on Sunday.
Gruters said that decisions related to rallies are taken instantaneously, based
on electoral data and determining states and candidates who need more support,
adding that other changes may occur in the coming period. Regarding Alaska,
Gruters commented on reports talking about involvement of the campaign of
Democratic candidate Mary Peltola in an attempt to recruit a candidate to run in
the Senate race who bears the same name as the current Republican Senator Dan
Sullivan, in a step suspected of aiming to disperse voters' votes and weaken
Sullivan's chances.
Calls to destroy the system and arm protesters... Republicans urge Trump to
finish the mission in Iran... When asked whether the
Republican Party would seek to disrupt certification of election results if
Peltola wins, Gruters said he would follow the position of Republican Governor
Mike Dunleavy. He added: "We will see where the investigation will reach, but we
will be ready to provide assistance in any possible way." The federal prosecutor
in Alaska announced Friday that his office is participating in a separate
investigation to determine whether legal violations were committed in the
attempt to recruit the aforementioned candidate. For its part, Peltola and her
campaign denied any connection to the recruitment process.
The battle to win a majority in the US Congress enters its
final turn... Accusations against Democrats of recruiting an obscure person to
run in Alaska because he has the same name as the Republican Senator
Washington: Reuters / 31 Oct / 2026
As the campaign for control of the US Congress enters the last weekend before
the elections, the Donald Trump administration escalated its intervention in the
Senate race in the state of Alaska, at a time when the number of Americans who
voted early approached 50 million, a record in a midterm election.
The Department of Justice on Friday sped up its criminal investigation in
Alaska, following reports that aides to a Democratic candidate for the Senate
recruited a retired teacher from a remote fishing village to run for election
because he has the same name as the current Republican Senator.
The Department, based on a civil lawsuit that President Trump said he urged to
be filed, submitted additional requests in an attempt to prevent the state of
Alaska from certifying the results of the Senate elections if the incumbent
Republican Dan S. Sullivan loses a close race, whose ballot also includes the
independent candidate Daniel J. Sullivan Jr.The close race in Alaska is seen as
crucial for Democrats if they hope to wrest control of the Senate from
Republicans led by Trump in Tuesday's election. This race is one of 35 races for
Senate seats out of 100 members, which will determine the shape of the last two
years of Trump's term. All 435 seats of the US House of Representatives are up
for contest. Early voting turnout in this cycle
recorded a record, as more than 49 million Americans have already cast their
votes, whether in person or by mail, according to the Election Lab at the
University of Florida, compared to about 46 million who voted before Election
Day in the previous midterm elections in 2022. A
Democratic victory in one or both chambers could open congressional
investigations into the Trump administration, which has enjoyed for two years a
largely cooperative Republican majority.
Trump has made extensive campaign tours in several states during the past month,
but travel is not on his agenda today, Saturday, which will see a number of
traditional American events coincide, from politics to Halloween and college
football across the country. Trump returns to the campaign trail tomorrow,
Sunday, in Kansas and Iowa. Michael Heyman, the US Attorney in Alaska, said
during a press conference on Friday that a recent article published by the New
York Times about alleged recruitment attempts led to a "significant increase" in
the resources that the Federal Bureau of Investigation allocated to the matter,
adding that he assigned several prosecutors to investigate and that the
investigation is proceeding "intensively and quickly."The New York Times had
reported on Wednesday that aides to Democratic Senate candidate Mary Peltola
enlisted Daniel J. Sullivan Jr. to enter the race. Heyman described him as a
"sham candidate," but refrained from specifying what crime may have been
committed. Heyman said the Department has already filed the civil lawsuit, but
added: "When the New York Times article was published, it provided additional
information that sped up what we were doing." For her part, Peltola denied
knowledge of any efforts to recruit Sullivan, and the retired teacher also
denied that he coordinated with Peltola's campaign. The Trump administration
also filed a lawsuit against California in an attempt to prevent counting
ballots cast by more than 20,000 registered voters that the administration
claims may not be American citizens. The administration also filed lawsuits
against about 30 states and the District of Columbia, demanding to obtain
complete unredacted voter records. For his part, a federal judge on Friday
ordered the Department of Justice to stop threatening to prosecute election
officials in California if they do not comply with the Trump administration's
directives related to allegations of non-citizen voting. According to a poll
conducted by Reuters and Ipsos from September 30 to October 5, a bipartisan
majority of American voters trust the electoral process in general, with 76%
saying they are confident that their votes will be counted accurately. 15% said
they were not confident, while the rest said they were unsure or did not answer
the question. Confidence levels were similar between Republicans and Democrats.
Lawyers for Alaska: Trump's request to exclude votes in
Senate elections is impossible.... Strongly-worded memo
Al Arabiya.net and Agencies / 31 Oct / 2026
The government of the state of Alaska, which is run by Republicans, called on
Saturday on a federal judge to dismiss a lawsuit filed at the direction of US
President Donald Trump, aimed at stopping certification of a potential victory
for a Democratic candidate in the state's crucial US Senate elections.
The state's memo said: "There is no reason for this court to continue
considering this lawsuit that lacks a legal basis."The strongly-worded memo,
submitted by the State Attorney General's office, came in conjunction with US
District Judge Sharon L. Gleason setting today, Saturday, a deadline for
submitting pleadings on whether she should dismiss the lawsuit without holding a
hearing at all. Election law experts criticized the
complaint filed by the Department of Justice, as the complaint asks the judge to
stop certifying a potential victory for Democratic candidate Mary Peltola, until
it is verified whether voters were confused due to the presence of a second
candidate on the ballot bearing the same name as her main opponent, Republican
Senator Dan Sullivan. The Department of Justice on Friday added a request to
separate all ballots that include votes for the second candidate who bears the
name Dan Sullivan, until it is verified whether voters were misled and pushed to
waste their votes for a rival candidate in order to disperse votes. The state of
Alaska in its memo submitted today described this request as "worrying and
impossible at the same time," adding that there will be no way to implement it
without violating voter secrecy.
Germany: Police officers injured in riots at "Gen Z" demonstration... Fireworks
and stone throwing
Al Arabiya.net and Agencies / 31 Oct / 2026
The Interior Minister of the German state of Hesse, Roman Poseck, announced on
Saturday evening, based on preliminary estimates, that a number of police
officers were injured during riots witnessed at the youth demonstration in the
city of Frankfurt, the financial capital of Germany.
The Minister, who belongs to the party of Chancellor Friedrich Merz, the
Christian Democrats, explained that "it is possible that one police officer was
also injured somewhat more seriously, but the matter still needs further
verification." Police had announced dispersing the demonstration called by the
initiative "Gen Z Regelt" (Gen Z Takes Charge), after repeated throwing of
fireworks and stones. The Interior Minister said that
warnings about the possibility of violent elements from far-left circles
infiltrating among demonstrators had proven true, adding: "We estimate the
number of perpetrators of violence for far-left extremist motives at about 100
people. They attacked the police intensively, using bottles, stones and
incendiary materials." Police also used water cannons for some time during the
events. Poseck stressed that police managed to bring the situation under
control.The number of participants at the peak of the demonstration reached
nearly eight thousand people, according to police, while organizers estimated
their number at about nine thousand.
Yemeni Army retakes strategic sites in al-Jawf... Seizure
of weapons and ammunition stores left by Houthi militia fighters before fleeing
Al Arabiya.net: Ousan Salem / 31 Oct / 2026
Yemeni Army forces announced on Saturday evening retaking control of military
sites and strategic heights east of the city of al-Hazm, the administrative
center of al-Jawf Governorate, following battles with Houthi militias. The Media
Center of the Yemeni Armed Forces reported that "First Emergency Division"
forces regained control of sites in the vicinity of Dahidha mountains, and
seized weapons and ammunition stores left by Houthi militia fighters before
fleeing, in addition to destroying combat vehicles and armored vehicles and
inflicting dead, wounded and prisoners among them.
The Center published scenes of the First Emergency Division's control over wide
areas and strategic sites east of al-Hazm in al-Jawf Governorate.
Imam of the village of the perpetrators of the Hammoud church attack in Jordan:
"Their families disowned them"
Imam of Jadida village in Karak to " Al Arabiya": Al-Dhunaibat tribe demands
execution of the attackers
Riyadh: Al Arabiya.net / 31 Oct / 2026
The imam of Jadida village in Karak Governorate, Jordan, revealed new
information about the perpetrators of the Hammoud church attack, confirming that
their relationship with the village residents was almost cut off due to their
extremist ideas. The Imam told Al Arabiya and Al Hadath channels today,
Saturday, that the three attackers "were excommunicating Muslims before
Christians, and considered the villagers as apostates, and do not pray behind
local mosque imams, and also refused to eat from the villagers' slaughtered
animals because they excommunicate them." He added that they "do not
differentiate between a mosque and a church," and that villagers feared they
would commit acts of violence even inside mosques. The
Imam explained that the attackers' families disowned them, noting that they are
his relatives but they were ostracized in the village due to their extremist
ideas. He also confirmed that the relationship between Muslims and Christians in
the Hammoud area was and still is strong, while members of the Al-Dhunaibat
tribe demanded execution of the attackers. On Friday, three gunmen attacked a
gathering of participants in a funeral at St. George Church in the village of
Hammoud in Karak Governorate in southern Jordan, with gunfire that killed nine
people and injured 25 others, before fleeing, but Jordanian security succeeded
in arresting them.
320 thousand demonstrators and ghost masks.. Terror in the
streets of France and Halloween turns into a nightmare... Authorities deployed
about 70 thousand police and gendarmes across the country
Al Arabiya.net and Agencies / 31 Oct / 2026
Ghost and zombie masks on Saturday were not just festive costumes for Halloween
in France, after they appeared amid scenes of protests that swept a number of
cities, where scary characters mixed with smoke from fires and tear gas, in a
scene that looked like a clip from a horror movie.
In one of the most striking images, a person wearing a " Ghostface" mask, the
famous character in the horror film series "Scream," appeared near fires burning
on tram tracks in the city of Bordeaux, coinciding with demonstrations organized
by the Yellow Vests movement and unions and students to protest the high cost of
living and social inequality. In Paris, the end of the
march turned into confrontations between police and groups of masked protesters,
after some of them used hammers to pry up sidewalk stones and throw them towards
security forces, while an incendiary device was thrown towards police, who
responded with tear gas and charges to disperse gatherings. The capital
witnessed demonstrators in various fancy costumes, including Spider-Man,
Frankenstein and zombie characters, while a security helicopter hovered over the
eastern part of the city, and anti-riot forces spread in the streets. The French
Interior Ministry estimated the number of participants in Saturday's protests at
about 320 thousand people across the country, including 70 thousand in Paris, in
the third consecutive weekend of protest movements. Although the majority of
marches proceeded peacefully, tensions renewed in Paris, Marseille, Lyon and
Toulouse. Authorities had deployed about 70 thousand police and gendarmes across
the country, in anticipation of riots during Halloween night, especially after
online calls circulated to organize night gatherings under the slogan "Night of
Darkness" and ignite what its authors described as "the revolution." The
protests in recent weeks have gone beyond students' demands to improve school
and university conditions, to include the high cost of living, housing and
social inequality, in addition to objection to police methods of dealing with
demonstrators. Thus, a night that was supposed to be filled with ghost masks and
horror costumes turned into a new security test for French authorities, where
scary characters were no longer just part of Halloween celebrations, but became
a backdrop for real scenes of confrontations, gas and fires in the streets.
"Mecca Pact" on Damascus table.. What did al-Shaibani reveal?
Janoubia / 31 Oct / 2026
Damascus opens a new page in its regional relations, with the disclosure of
discussions to assess Syria's joining the "Mecca Pact," in a step that reflects
a tendency towards strengthening security partnerships and moving from a
position of conflict to a position of participation in shaping the regional
security system. At a time when Syria seeks to re-establish its presence in its
Arab surroundings, Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani confirmed that his
country is open to any common framework that contributes to protecting the
stability of the region and facing security challenges.
"Mecca Pact" on Damascus table.. What did al-Shaibani reveal?
During his participation in a session titled "Foundations of Regional Security,"
within the activities of the "Manama Dialogue Forum 2026," al-Shaibani revealed
the existence of discussions to assess the possibility of Syria joining the
"Mecca Pact," explaining that the research is not limited to this framework, but
also includes other security systems that can achieve common goals in the field
of defense and stability. He stressed that the region is no longer able to face
security challenges through individual moves by each country, but needs common
systems for deterrence and defense, stressing that Damascus "aligns itself with
any system that protects the stability of the region." He also considered that
Gulf security is an integral part of Syrian regional security, and that Syria's
stability in turn is linked to the security of the countries of the region, in
reference to the increasing interconnection between Arab security files.
Cooperation with Iraq, Lebanon and Jordan to control borders
Regarding the border file, al-Shaibani confirmed the existence of extensive
security and military cooperation with Iraq, Lebanon and Jordan, stressing that
protecting borders is a joint responsibility that no single country can bear
alone. He denied the existence of clashes with Jordan, noting that relations
between the two countries are witnessing development through the "Supreme
Strategic Council," which is expected to hold its third meeting next month. In
this context, he warned of the dangers of cross-border armed groups, especially
those operating outside the authority of the state, considering that the
presence of weapons outside official institutions weakens the state and
threatens the security of its surroundings. He confirmed that Damascus is
working to build a national army that undertakes border protection, and to
confine military decision to the state, while expressing readiness to cooperate
with Gulf states in facing common security challenges.
Israel and the Golan.. Damascus adheres to Resolution 497
On the confrontation line with Israel, al-Shaibani renewed emphasis that the
Golan is Syrian land, and that UN Security Council Resolution 497 constitutes
the essential reference for the Syrian position in this file. He revealed that
Syria has been subjected to more than a thousand Israeli attacks during the past
two years, considering that the continuation of Israeli violations raises
questions about demanding Damascus to control borders and confine weapons, at a
time when its sovereignty is subject to continuous violations. He called for a
return to lines before December 8, 2024, and reactivation of the disengagement
agreement of 1974, as an essential framework for organizing the security
situation on the Syrian-Israeli front. He also stressed that stability of the
region cannot be separated from ending the war in Gaza, and opening a political
path leading to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.
From political openness to investment and economic recovery
Economically, al-Shaibani called for translating improvement in political
relations and lifting sanctions imposed on Syria into practical steps, by
encouraging investments and expanding economic partnerships and supporting the
recovery path. He considered that the next stage should not be limited to
diplomatic openness, but should move to economic cooperation that contributes to
rebuilding Syria and enhancing its ability to restore its regional role.
Damascus seeks a new position in the regional security equation
Al-Shaibani's positions reflect a Syrian tendency towards expanding the network
of security and political relations with Arab countries, at a time when Damascus
is working to rebuild its military institutions and enhance border cooperation
and engage in joint regional arrangements. Between discussions related to the
"Mecca Pact," and cooperation with Iraq, Jordan and Lebanon, and adherence to
Syrian rights in the Golan, Syria appears to be facing a stage in which it seeks
to move from managing the repercussions of years of war to participating in
drawing equations of security and stability in the region. Damascus's joining
any regional security system remains linked to the outcomes of ongoing
discussions, the nature of commitments that may result from it, and the extent
of its compatibility with Syria's priorities and its new regional relations.
The Latest English LCCC analysis &
editorials from miscellaneous sources published
on October 31-November 01/2026
They Ruined Empires. They Will Do It to the USA Too
Dr. Majid Rafizadeh/Gatestone Institute/October 31, 2026
https://www.gatestoneinstitute.org/22954/they-ruined-empires
The two countries I grew up in, Persia (Iran) and Syria were once part of great
civilizations and empires. Just look at them now. The Persian Empire stood tall
for thousands of years. It had depth, culture, resources, continuity. In just a
few decades, however, after being taken over in 1979 by those identified with
Islamic Sharia law, it was brought down into economic ruin, widespread
suffering, and some of the most unspeakable human rights atrocities ever. Today,
despite oil and other resources, Iran's economy is a disaster. People suffer.
Women are subjected to forced covering and endless restrictions supposedly to
"protect" them. Dissent is crushed. Basic freedoms are stripped. What took
centuries to build was reversed overnight.
It is not only Iran. Look at other countries where people identified with
Islamist Sharia law gained control — Afghanistan, Yemen and Sudan, to name just
a few. The pattern repeats: Their economies rank among the weakest. Their human
rights records are among the most repressive. The painful daily life of ordinary
people shows a plummeting trajectory.
Why? Because for those who identify with Islamist Sharia law, the economy does
not matter. The livelihood of ordinary people does not matter. The prosperity of
children, the quality of schools, opportunity, happiness or material progress do
not matter. What matters is imposing their version of Sharia law. That is the
ultimate and only goal.
They will not, of course, announce this goal that way.... They conceal the
endgame until they hold power. In Iran in 1979, they did not campaign by saying,
"We will force the hijab on every woman." They used women's participation and
broader grievances to gain support. Once in power, the compulsion begins: the
scarf is forced. Opposition is met with imprisonment, torture, rape and
execution. You either accept what they say or you are treated as an infidel.
That is how we grew up. The method of imposing these views is not persuasion. It
is force.
Once Islamists hold power, the foundational American protections — freedom of
speech, freedom of expression, freedom of the press, the Second Amendment, an
independent judiciary, property rights, women's and children's rights, due
process and equal justice under the law — will become targets. They are not
compatible with the enforced supremacy of Islamist Sharia law as these actors
understand it. All your rights can be narrowed, redefined, or removed in the
shortest time, just as they were elsewhere.
Americans tend to be straightforward; unfortunately, many of those identified
with the Islamist ideology are not. They will lie. They will use promises,
concealment, and the doctrine of taqiyya (dissimulation in the service of Islam)
when useful. They will say what is needed to gain votes and positions of
influence. After their power is secured, the agenda hardens and the country is
driven back to the seventh century, just as larger and older civilizations were.
Once they control the levers of power, what follows is the same script that
played out in Iran, as in other places. So when you go to vote, be careful. More
depends on it than you know.
Once Islamists hold power, the foundational American protections — freedom of
speech, freedom of expression, freedom of the press, the Second Amendment, an
independent judiciary, property rights, women's and children's rights, due
process and equal justice under the law — will become targets. They are not
compatible with the enforced supremacy of Islamist Sharia law as these actors
understand it. All your rights can be narrowed, redefined, or removed in the
shortest time, just as they were elsewhere. Pictured: Anjem Choudary, a British
Islamic radical, speaks at a rally in London, England on March 21, 2011. (Photo
by Oli Scarff/Getty Images)
It is extremely important to be careful when you vote. Do not vote for people
who are identified with Islamism and Islamist Sharia law. This ideology has
ruined countries and empires. If Americans are not careful, it will happen in
the USA. Just look at England and France.
The two countries I grew up in, Persia (Iran) and Syria were once part of great
civilizations and empires. Just look at them now. The Persian Empire stood tall
for thousands of years. It had depth, culture, resources, continuity. In just a
few decades, however, after being taken over in 1979 by those identified with
Islamic Sharia law, it was brought down into economic ruin, widespread
suffering, and some of the most unspeakable human rights atrocities ever. Today,
despite oil and other resources, Iran's economy is a disaster. People suffer.
Women are subjected to forced covering and endless restrictions supposedly to
"protect" them. Dissent is crushed. Basic freedoms are stripped. What took
centuries to build was reversed overnight.
It is not only Iran. Look at other countries where people identified with
Islamist Sharia law gained control — Afghanistan, Yemen and Sudan, to name just
a few. The pattern repeats: Their economies rank among the weakest. Their human
rights records are among the most repressive. The painful daily life of ordinary
people shows a plummeting trajectory.
Why? Because for those who identify with Islamist Sharia law, the economy does
not matter. The livelihood of ordinary people does not matter. The prosperity of
children, the quality of schools, opportunity, happiness or material progress do
not matter. What matters is imposing their version of Sharia law. That is the
ultimate and only goal.
They will not, of course, announce this goal that way. Western political
movements often state theirs. Western civilization tends to express its aims
openly. These actors frequently do not. They conceal the endgame until they hold
power. In Iran in 1979, they did not campaign by saying, "We will force the
hijab on every woman." They used women's participation and broader grievances to
gain support. Once in power, the compulsion begins: the scarf is forced.
Opposition is met with imprisonment, torture, rape and execution. You either
accept what they say or you are treated as an infidel. That is how we grew up.
The method of imposing these views is not persuasion. It is force.
They begin at the margins. They promise free things, benefits, relief—language
that often sounds socialist or redistributionist. They acquire positions in
government, institutions, and civil society. When they finally secure power, the
real program is imposed. The whole direction of the country reverses. Economies
that had flourished for generations stagnate or collapse: the priority is not
growth, innovation, or the welfare of the living population. The priority is the
enforcement of their theocratically legal vision. They believe it secures them
an eternal reward in the next life – including virgins, young boys and paradise.
Everything else is secondary.
The United States is relatively young— 250 years. The empires and countries that
were undone were also filled with people who did not believe it could ever
happen to them.
Once Islamists hold power, the foundational American protections — freedom of
speech, freedom of expression, freedom of the press, the Second Amendment, an
independent judiciary, property rights, women's and children's rights, due
process and equal justice under the law — will become targets. They are not
compatible with the enforced supremacy of Islamist Sharia law as these actors
understand it. All your rights can be narrowed, redefined, or removed in the
shortest time, just as they were elsewhere.
I am writing this because I love this country and I know its people are decent
and honest. Americans tend to be straightforward; unfortunately, many of those
identified with the Islamist ideology are not. They will lie. They will use
promises, concealment, and the doctrine of taqiyya (dissimulation in the service
of Islam) when useful. They will say what is needed to gain votes and positions
of influence. After their power is secured, the agenda hardens and the country
is driven back to the seventh century, just as larger and older civilizations
were.
If you care about your future, and your children's and grandchildren's future,
as well as freedom of speech, a free press, freedom of (or from) religion and
the other rights the founding generation treasured and fought for, do not vote
for people who will take these freedoms away. Even if they avoid showing their
cards in public, what they reveal when they speak or by their evasions when they
do not speak, are warnings. Once they control the levers of power, what follows
is the same script that played out in Iran, as in other places. So when you go
to vote, be careful. More depends on it than you know.
*Dr. Majid Rafizadeh is a political scientist, Harvard-educated analyst, and
board member of Harvard International Review. He has authored several books on
the US foreign policy. He can be reached at dr.rafizadeh@post.harvard.edu
*Follow Majid Rafizadeh on X (formerly Twitter)
© 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.
Here Come the Non-Arabs
Samir Atallah/Asharq Al-Awsat/October 31/2026
We had to wait for the results, foreign names and all. The race was run in the
Middle East, and its headline was Eisenkot. "The situation in the region" hung
on three Likud seats, or four for Netanyahu, or three for Sa'ar. The way we
waited for Israel's election, the world and ourselves, was comical. The whole
world felt personally invested in the outcome: fear for the fate of a man who
has ruled Israel for two and a half decades, at the hands of a politician whose
name no one knew, Eisenkot. In Israel, crises always turn on a margin of three
or four votes. In the lands of steadfastness, the rule is the same every time:
99.999 percent. And who was the man the world hoped would end Netanyahu's long
tenure? What can the Arab vote in Israel do? It can tip the scales for Eisenkot.
Were the matter not so serious and so dangerous, it would all seem truly
surreal. The Middle East, from end to end, is full of non-Arab names, fighting
over Arab land. The most important is Qalibaf. As for the rest, in the lands of
confrontation and steadfastness, every new arrival brings his novelty, and every
arsenal its own steel. The Middle East has opened up to itself so far that it
nearly swallowed East and West together. Everyone looks for salvation in someone
else's ballot box. Donald Trump seeks Netanyahu's blessing, and is openly given
his support, and the ballot boxes of Washington and Tel Aviv blur together. The
situation is the same, however it changes. This patch of earth used to be called
"the region." Our region, that is: our East. Now, from one end of it to the
other, we see names we don't know how to pronounce, or what they mean. Likud, or
Qalibaf, or the Abraham Lincoln. "Here come the non-Arabs," Sheikh Subhi al-Saleh
used to tell his students. And now we must learn where they are headed, which
government will be formed, and what Mr. Eisenkot's tastes might be.From Israel's
front, from the fronts of Iran and America, from every direction: here come the
non-Arabs, as the late, ever-exasperated sheikh used to say.
Iran Would Do Better as a Normal State at Peace with Its Neighbors
Mohammed al-Rumaihi/Asharq Al-Awsat/October 31/2026
Why is it so hard for the Iranian regime to admit the failure of its regional
project, when it is all but at war with the world and not only with its
neighbors, directly or through proxies? I believe the answer lies in the fact
that we are dealing with a power that has given its political conception a
sacred character, and then asked its own people, and other societies, to bear
the cost of realizing that impossible project. Retreating from that policy thus
touches the legitimacy of those who run it, and a review of its results becomes
an objection to the doctrine of government. That is a dilemma no ceasefire
agreement or protracted negotiation can resolve, however necessary they may be.
Its solution has to be sought outside the box. Freeing thought from the tutelage
of the ecclesiastical establishment was one of the foundations of the West's
progress. The confrontation with the Church did not by itself produce the West's
renaissance: trade, education, and political change contributed, and believers
took part in advancing knowledge. But winning the right to criticize the
clergy's interpretations opened a wide field for change in the world. It became
possible to test an idea coming from a man of religion and to refute it if it
contradicted evidence, reason, and the public interest. It was no longer
accepted that the holder of religious office possessed the final answer on the
affairs of society, of nature, and of international relations.
This did not come easily. Galileo was forced to recant his defense of the
earth's motion and spent the rest of his life under house arrest after his trial
in 1633. He paid the price for challenging an interpretation adopted by a
powerful religious authority. The value of this example is that knowledge needed
courage to defend the right to ask questions. Objecting to the prevailing
interpretation threatened the position of the institution that monopolized it,
and exposed the fact that its influence did not necessarily make its judgments
correct. In Iran today, we face, despite differing times, the problem of
granting human jurisprudence religious immunity. The regime is based on the
Guardianship of the Jurist (Velayat-e Faqih), and its ambition extends beyond
state administration to influencing neighboring societies under various banners.
Consequently, choices related to peace and war become surrounded by a doctrinal
discourse that makes it difficult for a believer to accept holding them
accountable. Thus, anyone who questions the feasibility of the project is forced
to defend their loyalty and their life. I believe it is impossible for this
project to produce an acceptable stability among diverse societies if it
requires subjecting their decision-making to an authority outside their own
homelands. This is what is happening in Yemen and Lebanon; it may impose
influence through arms, and it may find local supporters, but it cannot convert
that into national consensus. A person in Lebanon or Yemen wants a state that
protects their rights, while retaining the right to oppose it. In Lebanon the
impasse is plain. Hezbollah tied its weapons and its position to the Iranian
project, and the debate over the decision of war became bound up with
calculations beyond Lebanon's interest. Society pays the cost of this attachment
in its security, while the question of responsibility remains a matter of
accusation. Israeli aggression is to be condemned, but condemning it does not
exempt a Lebanese organization from accountability. Whoever decides to expose
his country to war must answer to his fellow citizens for that harmful decision.
In Yemen, the Houthi movement is another version of Hezbollah. It has, of
course, its local calculations, but it found in Iranian support a means of
expanding its military capacity and its influence. The problem is that Yemenis
are asked to bear the results of regional choices placed ahead of their need to
rebuild their state. How does threatening the neighbors or disrupting world
trade become a path to improving the life of a Yemeni family? That is a
practical question slogans do not answer.
What the two cases share is placing the group's project ahead of society's right
to determine its own fate. That does not mean holding the Iranian people
responsible for their leadership's choices, nor reducing Lebanon's Shiites to a
party or Yemenis to an armed group. Within these societies there are different
interests and opinions. But the party and the movement confiscate that
diversity, then present their narrative abroad as its only voice.
Why does the project persist despite its cost? Because admitting its failure
opens files that go beyond the present moment. Its authors would be asked about
the money spent, the opportunities lost, and the justifications for putting
confrontation ahead of development. Around them are beneficiaries who fear that
a review would cost them their positions. So doctrine intertwines with interest,
and every loss is interpreted in a way that absolves the leadership of
responsibility. The organization's survival is enough for it to be called
success, even as society's capacity to live declines.
Here lies the responsibility of the intellectual. What is needed is to dismantle
the claim that politics derives its validity from religious cover, by measuring
results against what has been achieved for people. There is no need to copy
Europe's history, nor to quarrel with individuals' faith. We need the courage
that made the review of ideas a right, and protection for those who exercise it.
A society that fears questions cannot correct its mistakes, and leaves it to
those in power to decide what it may know about its own fate. Negotiations may
succeed in averting a new war, or a destructive war may break out and widen. But
a stable peace requires reviewing the project that calls for intervention in
other people's homelands. Tehran must accept that its ambition does not give it
the right of guardianship, and that Lebanon, Yemen, and others are homelands for
their own people. Acknowledging this truth would allow the Iran to come, whether
by negotiation or by war, to return to being a normal state that exchanges
interests with its neighbors, and would give the region's peoples a chance to
leave a confrontation they did not choose. That requires accepting plurality
within the homeland, submitting to its institutions, and ceasing to arm a group
to impose its will on others. Last word: the sanctity of a claim does not cancel
its failure.
On the Inevitability of War and Debates of Peace
Fahid Suleiman al-Shoqiran/Asharq Al-Awsat/October 31/2026
War has never been mankind's preferred means of settling disputes. But history’s
complications have imposed, and still impose, the "inevitability" and its
"necessity" of war; indeed, human history cannot understand without its eras of
combat and its rounds of conflict.
War teaches us that what we do may not be what we want to. The movement of
history has forced man into battle as he vies to shape a future he dreams of,
defend the reality he lives, or subdue an enemy lying in wait. The choice
between war and its alternatives has continued to torment humanity, its
politicians, and for philosophers. Among the earliest surviving treaties are
documents from the thirteenth century BC. The journey from war to negotiation,
and from negotiation to peace, has been arduous and full of military and
political setbacks, and, more importantly, of theoretical difficulties.
Among those who returned to weigh in on the debate was the German philosopher
Hegel, who devoted part of his political theory to the problem of war at its
root. The reason for Hegel's interest, according to his late commentator Imam
Abdel Fattah Imam, lies in "the events of the age in which he lived and the
rapid and immense political changes it witnessed. It is well known that
political thought grows and flourishes in a state of political and social
ferment, acute political crises, and decisive historical events, because all of
this compels man to take a political position in spite of himself."
There are those today who oppose wars on the grounds that they ignore the
possibilities of peace and marginalize the values of dialogue. When we speak of
the need to strike the renegades by force and strip away their evils with the
cudgel of war, some dreamers answer with fragile, regressive theories,
remarkable for their laziness.
The war against Houthi terrorism, the recent and living example, is necessary.
Through it, and by it, we can rein in the rebellion and suppress terrorism.
Humanity has seen this elite struggle before, pitting the realism of war against
the idealism of peace. To clarify the theory, I refer readers to the chapter
"War and the Court of History" in Imam's The Political Philosophy of Hegel. He
explains that war has occupied philosophers since antiquity, and they have
divided into two camps: those who see war as inevitable, called realists, and
sometimes conservatives; and those who believe in the inevitability of peace,
called idealists, and sometimes abolitionists. Hegel saw war as "the father of
and king of all": things appear and disappear through strife, and war's role in
human development cannot be denied, since much of what history has achieved came
from war and conflict rather than from harmony and cooperation among human
beings. Hegel wrote on this early in his life, in his political essays of 1801.
However, Hegel's view demands s a balanced reading, and we find one in John
Plamenatz, who argues that Hegel did not regard continuous, unending war as the
noblest activity, though he held that wars can at times serve a people's moral
health and that the social and military virtues they produce cannot be denied.
The purpose of this account is to temper the political and media clamor among
elites calling for a seat at the table and the start of negotiations, while the
renegade Houthi movement shells civilians, buildings, and airports. War is part
of the victory of good over the forces of pure evil. The conflict in the region
today is between those who want to build and those who want to destroy. Victory
is fueled by strength, and war is "the force of forces."The upshot: idealist
theories will remain prisoners of books, seminars, poetry, and song. History
imposes battles that man would prefer to avoid, but he will surely plunge into
their depths when his very existence depends on leaving his cave, sharpening the
spears, and yielding his sword.
Selected Face Book & X tweets
on October 31/2026
Political Pen
https://x.com/politicalpen_/status/2116535529403552111/video/1
Al-Amil: Stopping Us From Building Means Telling Us to Leave
Father Najib Al-Amil, the parish priest of the town of Rmeish, appeared in a
video speaking about the residents' steadfast attachment to their land, saying:
"We want to remain steadfast in our homes and on our land. We stand with our
state, but our state must look out for us. If we rebuild our homes, it means we
intend to stay here, and if they prevent us, it means they are telling us to
leave."
This video comes after a local resident built a room, which the Rmeish police
station ordered to be demolished. To avoid any clash between the resident and
the police station and to ensure the issue does not escalate, especially given
the Israeli occupation of the town and the deployment of Israeli army forces,
Father Najib Al-Amil expressed his hope to postpone dealing with the matter
until appropriate conditions are met, in order to prevent any friction. However,
the judge in Saida, who communicated with Father Al-Amil, considered his words
to imply a threat against her, and on this basis, she insisted on summoning him
for interrogation.
Hussain Abdul-Hussain
https://x.com/Charbel33758074/status/2116027650477093084/video/1
Christians of Lebanon complain of hemorrhaging real estate to Muslims in a way
that will turn predominantly Christian territory Muslim. Population decline
suggests that Christians of Lebanon, once the majority, will vanish before 2100.
When Jews did the same in Palestine, Arabs started 1936 violent intifada, forced
Britain to prohibit sales (against the law of free market). If Christians want
to stop Muslims buying them out, they should raise money from their deep
pocketed ones, establish the Christian National Fund, and buy out any Christians
who need to sell their real estate.
https://x.com/Charbel33758074/status/2116027650477093084/video/1
Hussain Abdul-Hussain
The idiotic Lebanese government tried to stop Christians in south Lebanon (a war
zone) from building without a license. The Christian in the video said we need
to build for us to stay. If you don’t let us build, you’re forcing us to leave.
Meanwhile, the IMF pours tens of millions of dollars to Hezbollah partisans to
reconstruct their destroyed houses.
Hiba Nasr
@SecRubio
We now live in a world where the Iranian regime actively and openly targets
commercial vessels for attack. Not naval vessels. We're not talking about naval
vessels. We're not talking about submarines. We are talking about them saying,
"Here's a commercial vessel with cargo, oil, natural gas, and we are going to
try to sink it. We're going to try. They are openly attacking vessels as a tool
of statecraft.
IsraelArmy
Breaking News:
During a press conference held by Benjamin Netanyahu in Israel, a high-ranking
official was subjected to a life-threatening attack. 🇮🇱 According to reports,
the attack was, in fact, aimed at Benjamin Netanyahu. However, the bullet missed
and did not hit him; his bodyguards immediately surrounded him and apprehended
the terrorist.
https://x.com/IsraelMilitaryX/status/2116385663327048082/video/1