English LCCC Newsbulletin For Lebanese, Lebanese Related, Global News &
Editorials
For September 20/2026
Compiled & Prepared by: Elias Bejjani
#elias_bejjani_news
The Bulletin's Link on the lccc Site
https://eliasbejjaninews.com/aaaanewsfor2026/english.september20.26.htm
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Bible Quotations For today
Whoever wishes to become great among you must be
your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you must be slave of all
Mark 10/35-45: “James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came forward to Jesus and
said to him, ‘Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask of you.’ And he
said to them, ‘What is it you want me to do for you?’And they said to him,
‘Grant us to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your
glory.’But Jesus said to them, ‘You do not know what you are asking. Are you
able to drink the cup that I drink, or be baptized with the baptism that I am
baptized with?’They replied, ‘We are able.’ Then Jesus said to them, ‘The cup
that I drink you will drink; and with the baptism with which I am baptized, you
will be baptized; but to sit at my right hand or at my left is not mine to
grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared.’ When the ten heard
this, they began to be angry with James and John. So Jesus called them and said
to them, ‘You know that among the Gentiles those whom they recognize as their
rulers lord it over them, and their great ones are tyrants over them. But it is
not so among you; but whoever wishes to become great among you must be your
servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you must be slave of all. For the
Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for
many.’
Titles For The English LCCC Lebanese & Lebanese Related News &
Editorials published on September 19-20/2026
Elias Bejjani: Debunking Jean Aziz’s article on the American “Just
Security” website affiliated with the Democrats.. Aziz, speaking for Joseph Aoun,
markets a forgery of the Framework Agreement to cover Hezbollah’s occupation.. A
reading of the original text versus the narrative of the Mullas’ palace
advisor/Elias Bejjani/September 19, 2026
Statement of Condemnation and Denunciation of the Unjust Verdict Against
Journalist Maria Maalouf/Elias Bejjani/September 18, 2027
The Futile Waiting/Abu Arz – Etienne Saqr/September 19, 2026
Video link of a wonderful interview on all levels with Dr. Charles Chartouni
from Al-Hawiya Youtube website
A Futile Wait/Abu Arz – Etienne Saqr | September 19, 2026
Huckabee: Israel Will Remain in the South Until the Lebanese Army Becomes Strong
A "belt of fire" encircles Nabatieh... and two Israeli soldiers wounded by an
explosive device in the South
Investigations Expand into Network Recruiting and Training Syrians Inside
Lebanon
Ongoing Israeli Escalation in the South: Four Airstrikes on Nabatieh Al-Fawqa
and Machine-Gun Fire Toward Al-Qantara
Israeli Army Announces Two Soldiers Injured by Explosive Device in the South and
Retaliates with Attacks
Bridges over the Litani and new military roads... Israel prepares southern
Lebanon for a prolonged occupation
Israeli Escalation in the South: Explosions, Artillery Shelling, and Raids Hit
Several Towns
Escalation in the South: Intensive Raids on Al-Mansouri and Artillery Shelling
Hits Al-Qantara and Al-Arid
Countdown to UNIFIL Withdrawal: Commander Reveals Prerequisites for Departure
From Pagers to the Assassination of Nasrallah: How Did Israel Alter the Course
of the Confrontation with Hezbollah?
Hezbollah Doubles Down on Its Bet on Iran: Casting Its Support Base and the
South into Israel’s Jaws!
Salam heads to New York and Washington to deliver Lebanon’s UN address and meet
Rubio
Prime Minister seeks aid for liberation; Israel: We are staying until the army
becomes strong
Tel Aviv responds to an explosive device planted by the Party; IMF: Progress
despite the war
Soft Espionage terrifies Tel Aviv.. Has the secrecy of Israeli weapons ended
after the Lebanon-Iran war?
60 Towns Facing Demolition… Is Southern Lebanon Bracing for a Phase Without
Witnesses?
Prime Minister Salam Heads to New York to Participate in UN General Assembly
Proceedings
Foreign Ministry Condemns Attack on Riyadh
Mass Rally in Tripoli Opposing the Challenge to the General Amnesty Law
Gathering of Lebanese Shiites: Withholding No-Confidence Vote Reflects
Hezbollah's Acceptance of the Framework Agreement
Titles For The Latest English LCCC Miscellaneous Reports And News
published on September 19-20/2026
US renews warning to its nationals in the Middle East / Complex security
environment with possibility of unexpected escalation
Trump announces plan to create an "Artificial Intelligence force" and appoint an
official for it... "We will not hinder or curb the growth of this amazing
industry"
Iran: Ready to return to diplomacy with Washington if it proves its seriousness
/ Iran conditions full implementation of Islamabad agreement to resume nuclear
talks
Guterres to Al Arabiya: We strongly condemn Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia...
"Attacks targeting Saudi ships are completely unacceptable"
Coalition spokesman: Air defenses thwarted Houthi hostile attempts...
Interception and destruction of ballistic missile launched towards Riyadh
Yemen.. Armed Forces thwart Houthi infiltration attempt south of Marib...
Clashes resulted in death of 12 Houthi militia members and injury of others
AFP: Experts from the Revolutionary Guard visited Bab al-Mandab to install
radars... Experts supervised tunnel digging works in the mountain hills
overlooking the area
Bahrain strongly condemns escalation of Houthi terrorist attacks on civilians in
Saudi Arabia... Renews its call for the Security Council to assume its
responsibilities
US State Department to Al Arabiya: We stand firmly with Saudi Arabia against
Houthi terrorism... "We are holding close consultations with our Saudi partners
and remain committed to their security"
Syrian security arrests one of the leaders of the Republican Guard affiliated
with the Assad regime, former Major General Ahmed Mohamed Ismail
Turkish minister acknowledges difficulty of achieving rapprochement between
Ukraine and Russia regarding the Black Sea... "Our top priority is to facilitate
the transport of grain from the Black Sea"
Titles For The Latest English LCCC analysis & editorials
from miscellaneous sources published
on September 19-20/2026
Shiites in Lebanon/Colonel Charbel Barakat/September 19/2026
President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu: Trying to Prevent the Takeover of
Western Civilization/Dr.Majid Rafizadeh/Gatestone Institute/September 19, 2026
Jean Aziz and the Master of the Palace’s Game/Colonel Charbel Barakat/September
20/2026
Question: What is sanctification? What is the definition of Christian
sanctification?/GotQuestions.org/September 19/2026
From Muscat to Salalah... The Problem Lies in Tehran/Mohammed Al-Rumaihi/Al-Ayyam/September
19, 2026
Sanctions Go Beyond "Economic Pariah" Status as Washington Blocks Iran’s
Political Avenues/Hassan Fahs/Independent Arabia/September 19, 2026
Iran Looms Over Trump-Xi Meeting: Is China Taking a Middle Path—or Distancing
Itself from Tehran?/Laura Yammine/Al-Markaziya/September 19, 2026
Selected Face Book & X tweets on September 19/2026
Latest English LCCC Lebanese &
Lebanese Related News & Editorials published
on September 19-20/2026
Elias Bejjani: Debunking Jean Aziz’s
article on the American “Just Security” website affiliated with the Democrats..
Aziz, speaking for Joseph Aoun, markets a forgery of the Framework Agreement to
cover Hezbollah’s occupation.. A reading of the original text versus the
narrative of the Mullas’ palace advisor
Elias Bejjani/September 19, 2026
https://eliasbejjaninews.com/2026/09/157644/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aueSVQk9oUQ
Aziz does not analyze the Framework Agreement; he rewrites it to serve the
narrative of the continuation of Hezbollah’s occupation, and turns the terms of
the agreement upside down. Below is a clause-by-clause exposure of the
manipulation:
1- The lie of the pilot zones and the Israeli withdrawal
What does the agreement actually say? Articles 2 and 3 are the heart of the
agreement: “Commit to a reciprocal and graduated path, according to a clear
sequence and specific conditions, under which the Lebanese Armed Forces will
extend the effective authority of the state over all Lebanese territory, after
verification of the disarmament of non-state armed groups and the dismantling of
their infrastructure, which would allow the Israel Defense Forces to gradually
redeploy outside Lebanese territory.”
“The Lebanese Armed Forces shall gradually assume full and effective security
responsibility in pilot zones, which constitute the mechanism through which the
phased and verified redeployment of Israeli forces will be implemented, in
parallel with the deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces… and upon verification
of the successful disarmament of non-state armed groups and the dismantling of
their infrastructure in these areas, the Lebanese Armed Forces shall assume
responsibility…” The logic is clear and strict: no withdrawal except after
complete cleansing and its verification. The Lebanese Army does not deploy into
a vacuum, but must prove that it has disarmed Hezbollah and dismantled its
tunnels and depots. Only then does Israel withdraw, and reconstruction and the
return of civilians begin.
What does Jean Aziz write?
He turns the verse completely upside down and says: “Israel demands that the
Lebanese Army prove effective control over areas already handed over… while the
Lebanese position is that the Army cannot fully deploy in territories still
occupied by Israeli forces.” This is blatant forgery. The agreement never said
that the army deploys first in occupied land. It said the opposite: the army
disarms in its own area that it already controls, under American supervision,
then the United States verifies the cleansing, then Israel withdraws. Aziz turns
the clear security condition into a “trap” and a “contradiction that threatens
political logic,” to justify the failure of the Lebanese state to disarm. More
dangerously, he deliberately ignores the phrase “after its complete cleansing of
Hezbollah” which is the essence of Article 3. He wants a free, unconditional
Israeli withdrawal, so that Hezbollah returns to the same points in army
uniform.
2- The lie of the monopoly of arms – from an irreversible commitment to a social
welfare program
The agreement – Articles 4, 6 and 9: “The Government of the Lebanese Republic
reaffirms its firm and irreversible commitment to restore and exercise its full
sovereignty… re-establishing the state’s monopoly on the use of force, achieving
full and verified disarmament of all non-state armed groups, and ensuring that
these groups do not assume any military or security role, and do not possess any
armed capabilities anywhere on Lebanese territory.” “The Government of the
Lebanese Republic alone possesses the exclusive sovereign authority to make
decisions of war and peace… any claim by any state or non-governmental entity to
exercise a military or security role is considered illegal” “Implementation of a
strict performance-based program… any new American aid will be strictly
conditional on achieving specific and verifiable stages”…. This is not
disarmament in the south only, but in all of Lebanon, and forever.
What does Aziz write?
He turns this sovereign commitment into a DDR process – disarmament,
demobilization and reintegration in the Lebanese-militia style. He says: “The
Lebanese state cannot ask communities to support disarmament while Israeli
forces are still present… A fighter who leaves an armed organization needs a
reliable civilian future… Communities that relied on institutions linked to
Hezbollah need services…”
Here is the biggest manipulation: The agreement considers Hezbollah an illegal
militia that must be dismantled legally and militarily. Aziz considers it an
oppressed community that needs political, social, economic and employment
guarantees. He does not demand disarmament, but a price for disarmament, and
links it to reconstruction which Article 11 explicitly prevents from reaching
Hezbollah.
3- The lie of America’s role – from guarantor of verification to unconditional
funder
The agreement makes America the verification policeman, not a naive funder.
Articles 9, 10 and 11 are clear: not one dollar before verification, and
preventing reconstruction funds from reaching Hezbollah.
Aziz demands the exact opposite: “Trump’s pledge should now turn… into
sustainable military assistance, training and institutional support commensurate
with the scale of what is asked of the army… Israel should not be allowed to
turn withdrawal into a deferred reward… Washington helped draft the agreement…
and its role cannot end with the signing of the framework.” He wants America to
pressure Israel to withdraw first, and to finance the army, municipalities and
reconstruction immediately, while Hezbollah’s weapons remain. This is a literal
opposite of the text of the agreement which says aid is conditional on results.
4- The lie justifying Hezbollah’s weapons
Article 5 says: “The Government of the State of Israel affirms that its military
operations in Lebanon came exclusively as a result of attacks, threats and
hostile intentions emanating from non-state armed groups, especially Hezbollah…
The Government of Israel declares that it harbors no territorial ambitions or
claims in Lebanon.” Aziz revives Hezbollah’s narrative literally: “For a long
time, Hezbollah has justified its possession of an arsenal… with the argument
that the state is incapable of protecting Lebanese territory… If the Lebanese
state wants to replace the logic of armed resistance, it must prove that state
institutions are capable of achieving security results…”
Aziz legitimizes the pretext for weapons instead of refuting it, and makes the
Israeli withdrawal a condition for convincing the Shiite environment, while the
agreement says the opposite: disarming Hezbollah is a condition for removing the
need for any Israeli presence.
Conclusion
Jean Aziz’s article is not an analysis, but a defense memo for the jihadist,
terrorist, Iranian and criminal Hezbollah written by the advisor to President
Joseph Aoun, and on an American website affiliated with the Democrats to pass a
message to Washington – President Trump’s adminstration- that says: Do not
pressure us to disarm, pressure Israel to withdraw. The tripartite agreement
signed by Lebanon says: complete disarmament, in all of Lebanon, irreversible,
verified by America, then gradual Israeli withdrawal, then reconstruction
without Hezbollah. Aziz’s-which is Aoun -Berri- Hezbollah narrative says:
complete and immediate Israeli withdrawal, then generous unconditional American
support, then perhaps we will think about a functional dismantling of
Hezbollah’s weapons with social and political guarantees.
This is forgery itself. And it explains why the Rome negotiations on the pilot
zones faltered: because the official Lebanese side, on the advice of Aziz and
his ilk, is trying to sell Washington an agreement it did not sign, and hide an
agreement it did sign.
The mask of president Joseph Aoun has fallen, revealing his true Iranized and
mullah-ized nature. He is merely a “scarecrow and a figurehead” in Baabda
Palace, implementing the decrees of Hezbollah, Berri, and Iran, who imposed on
him a government of advisors — such as the acrobat Jean Aziz — over whom he has
no authority and who are completely subordinate to Hezbollah, Berri and, of
course, to their Persian mullah masters.
What is required: the resignation or dismissal of Joseph Aoun, nothing more and
nothing less.
The author, Elias Bejjani, is a Lebanese expatriate activist
Author’s Email:
Phoenicia@hotmail.com
Statement of Condemnation and Denunciation of the
Unjust Verdict Against Journalist Maria Maalouf
Elias Bejjani/September 18, 2027
https://eliasbejjaninews.com/2026/09/157613/
In a new disgraceful precedent confirming the extent of the degradation and
hijacking of judicial institutions in Lebanon, the so-called “Permanent Military
Court” in Beirut issued an invalid and unjust in absentia ruling sentencing
prominent journalist and activist Maria Maalouf, who resides in the United
States of America, to 15 years of hard labor under loose and fabricated charges
such as “national treason” and violating the laws boycotting Israel, against the
backdrop of her sovereign views and courageous stances opposing Iranian hegemony
and demanding peace.
In the strongest terms, this oppressive and politicized decision is condemned
and denounced, while emphasizing the following legal and rights-based constants:
The Nullity and Illegitimacy of the Court: The Military Court in Lebanon is an
exceptional, unconstitutional court that lost its judicial character since the
ominous era of the Syrian occupation, and transformed completely since 2005 into
an oppressive tool in the hands of the Iranian occupation represented by the
terrorist Hezbollah militia, entirely controlled by the dominant apparatus (the
Shiite dualism: the Amal Movement and Hezbollah) and constantly working to
terrorize Lebanon’s free people and muzzle free expression.
The Absence of Legal Effect: This verdict issued in absentia against a
journalist living outside the borders of militia authority, in a state governed
by the human rights charter, is a verdict void of legal and rights-based
validity, and represents a documented crime against freedom of opinion and
expression, and a malicious use of the judiciary as a claw to implement
occupation agendas and intellectual and political inquisitions.
The Responsibility of the Political Authority: We hold President Joseph Aoun,
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, and the Lebanese government fully and historically
responsible for the continuation of this judicial farce. The executive
authority’s failure thus far to close the Military Court, and more dangerously,
the inability to rein it in and prevent it from issuing unjust rulings against
every free-thinking voice that rejects Hezbollah’s occupation and calls for
peace, represents a implicit partnership in the horrific collapse of the rule of
law.
Accordingly, we demand the following:
The immediate and final closure of the “Military Court” and the removal of its
lawless authority over civilians and opinion writers.
The annulment and invalidation of all invalid and oppressive rulings that have
been and are being issued by this hijacked-will court.
The opening of an investigation and judicial and professional prosecution of all
judges who chaired this court, who were nothing more than cheap instruments to
execute the orders and plots of the Syrian and Iranian occupations.
Peace with Israel, and the overthrow of Lebanon’s arena being left open for the
merchants of the alleged “resistance” lie and the arms of the occupation, have
today become more than ever an urgent existential and national necessity to
restore Lebanon’s sovereignty and kidnapped identity.
Backgroung
Accused of Treason… Maria Maalouf Faces 15 Years in Prison
Janoubia/September 17, 2027 (Translated from Arabic by AI)
The Permanent Military Court in Beirut issued an in absentia ruling sentencing
media figure Maria Maalouf to 15 years of hard labor in a case filed by lawyer
Ghassan Mawla, acting on behalf of the Committee of Representatives of Released
Prisoners and a number of journalists, before the Military Public Prosecutor’s
Office. According to the ruling, Maalouf was convicted of crimes related to
‘national treason,’ calling for foreign aggression aimed at ‘displacing and
killing Lebanese, violating sovereignty, and destroying the state,’ in addition
to violating laws related to contact and normalization with Israel. The verdict
was issued against the backdrop of the lawsuit filed against her before the
military judiciary, with the decision handed down in absentia due to her failure
to attend the trial sessions.
The author, Elias Bejjani, is a Lebanese expatriate activist
The Futile Waiting
Abu Arz – Etienne Saqr/September 19, 2026
https://eliasbejjaninews.com/2026/09/157671/
A statement by the leader of the Guardians of the Cedars Party – Lebanese
Nationalist Movement
It appears that the Lebanese state’s policy is following—in terms of
approach—the path of Iranian policy: a lack of decisive action, ambiguous
stances, procrastination, and time-wasting, all while awaiting a shift in
regional and international circumstances.
The bet, it seems, is placed on the US midterm elections, or on what the
remainder of President Trump’s term might bring, alongside the Israeli
elections—hoping that the outcomes of these events might alter the balance of
power and the course of events in the region.
Yet, if this bet holds true, it means Lebanon has chosen futile waiting over
taking initiative, tying its fate to the decisions of ballot boxes abroad rather
than forging its own decisions at home.
More dangerously, time in Lebanon comes at a high cost: every day of delay
signifies further political erosion, economic deterioration, and hardship for
the people, while issues of vital importance remain in limbo, awaiting variables
that may—or may not—materialize.
In short:
Nations are not saved by betting on external variables, nor are states built on
waiting; rather, they are built by leaders who make decisions and take
initiative—not by leaders who wait for others to decide for them.
At your service, Lebanon.
Video link of a wonderful interview on all levels with Dr.
Charles Chartouni from Al-Hawiya Youtube website
A sovereign, visionary, national, scientific and bold reading in all current
Lebanese files, and a detailed explanation of the state of inaction, cunning and
trickery of Aoun and Salam’s infantile-childish and condemnation of the
debauchery and whoredom of Hezbollah[harbaqat][behavior]
The interview was conducted by media figure Abdul Rahman Derniqa from Al-Hawiya
website on YouTube
19 September/ 2026
https://eliasbejjaninews.com/2026/09/157674/
Introduction and summary of Al-Hawiya website
A confession without red lines: Charles Chartouni supports the staying of
Netanyahu until the end of the mission! The Power of Logic
Media figure Abdul Rahman Derniqa hosted in a new episode of the program “Quwat
Al-Mantiq” [Power of Logic] via Al-Hawiya platform, the Lebanese thinker and
academic Dr. Charles Chartouni
The episode dealt with a deep reading and a comprehensive political analysis of
the tense Lebanese and regional reality, passing through several prominent main
axes:
The future of the “Framework Agreement” and regional settlements: The guest
discussed the repercussions of the fall of “Tellit Ali al-Taher” [Ali al-Taher
Hill] and what followed it of settlements and political clashes between
international and regional parties (America, Iran, and Israel), clarifying that
the framework agreement has become practically in the wind despite formal
adherence to it.
The role of Hezbollah and Iranian influence: The discussion touched on the size
of Hezbollah’s control and its pervasive influence inside Lebanon, amid
reference to the decline of the role of the Lebanese state and its retreat in
front of the existing military and political reality.
The position of President Joseph Aoun: The episode dealt with the moves of the
President of the Republic Joseph Aoun and his recent comments, and his visit to
France to support the Lebanese Army, alongside the controversy over suspending
negotiations with Israel and the mutual accusations regarding the port explosion
and its repercussions.
Support for Netanyahu staying: Dr. Charles Chartouni presented a bold reading
“without red lines” declaring his support for the staying of Israeli Prime
Minister Benjamin Netanyahu until the completion of his mission in full in the
region, amid a review of the American and Israeli vision towards the Lebanese
arena and Iran.
Stages of the interview chronologically
00:00 – 01:30: Introduction of the episode and welcoming the guest Dr. Charles
Chartouni.
01:30 – 05:10: A brief about the biography of Al-Abaa Nouman [likely a
name/topic]
05:10 – 13:00: Discussion about the general Lebanese political reality and the
most prominent current headlines.
13:00 – 20:00: The axis of Ali al-Taher Hill, its fall, and its repercussions on
the lines of engagement and settlements.
20:00 – 27:00: A reading in the position of the Lebanese Army, the moves of
President Joseph Aoun, and his visit to France to support the military
institution.
27:00 – 33:00: The file of border demarcation negotiations, the framework
agreement,
33:00 – 38:00: The most prominent confession and support for Netanyahu staying
until the end of the mission, and a summary reading of the regional and Lebanese
political scene and conclusion of the episode.
A Futile Wait
Abu Arz – Etienne Saqr | September 19, 2026
https://eliasbejjaninews.com/2026/09/157671 (Translated from Arabic by
the AI)
Issued by the Head of the Guardians of the Cedars Party – Lebanese Nationalist
Movement
It appears that the Lebanese state’s policy is following—in terms of style—the
path of Iranian policy: a lack of decisive decisions, ambiguous stances,
procrastination, and time-wasting, all while awaiting a shift in regional and
international circumstances.
The bet, it seems, is placed on the US midterm elections, or on what the
remainder of President Trump’s term might bring, alongside the Israeli
elections—hoping that the outcomes of these events might alter the balance of
power and the course of events in the region.
Yet, if this gamble holds true, it means Lebanon has chosen a futile wait over
taking initiative, tying its fate to the decisions of ballot boxes abroad rather
than forging its own decisions at home.
More dangerously, time in Lebanon comes at a high cost: every day of delay
signifies further political erosion, economic deterioration, and hardship for
the people, while issues of existential importance remain in limbo, awaiting
variables that may—or may not—materialize.
In short: nations are not saved by betting on external variables, nor are states
built on waiting; rather, they are built by leaders who make decisions and take
initiative—not by leaders who wait for others to decide for them.
At your service, Lebanon.
Huckabee: Israel Will Remain in the South Until the
Lebanese Army Becomes Strong
Al-Markaziya/September 19, 2026 (Translated from Arabic by the AI)
US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee reassured the Lebanese people that Israel
has no desire to remain in Lebanon or annex any of its territory. He noted that
"Israeli forces will remain in Lebanon until the Lebanese Army becomes strong
enough," adding that "Israel's withdrawal from Lebanese territory is contingent
upon the Lebanese Army reaching a level of strength and capability that allows
it to perform its role"—thereby linking any Israeli withdrawal to the
capabilities of the Lebanese military establishment. The Ambassador's remarks
come at a time when the issue of an Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon and the role
of the Lebanese Army in border areas remain central to developments regarding
the situation in southern Lebanon. On June 26, Lebanon and Israel concluded a
framework agreement—following five rounds of direct, US-brokered
negotiations—that stipulated the disarmament of Hezbollah, the gradual
withdrawal of the Israeli army from the territories it occupies in southern
Lebanon, and the deployment of the Lebanese Army, beginning with "pilot" areas.
Hostilities in Lebanon had subsided since late June, thanks to the US-Iran
memorandum of understanding and the framework agreement; however, Tel Aviv
continues to occupy vast areas of southern Lebanon. It has announced the
establishment of a "security zone" extending ten kilometers deep along its
border and continues to carry out strikes as well as massive demolition and
blasting operations
A "belt of fire" encircles Nabatieh... and two Israeli
soldiers wounded by an explosive device in the South
Al-Markaziya/September 19, 2026 (Translated from Arabic by the AI)
Southern Lebanon witnessed a new round of field escalation after the Israeli
army announced that two soldiers had been wounded by an explosive device—which
it accused "the Party" of planting—and subsequently launched a series of
airstrikes on positions across several areas of the South. Ella Waweya, the
Israeli army’s Arabic-language spokesperson, stated in a post on X (formerly
Twitter) that an explosive device detonated on Saturday, striking an engineering
vehicle belonging to Israeli forces within what Israel terms the "security zone"
in southern Lebanon. According to the Israeli account, the blast caused minor
injuries to two soldiers, who were transported for medical treatment. The
Israeli army accused "the Party" of planting the device and announced that, in
response, it had launched raids targeting various positions and infrastructure
belonging to the group across southern Lebanon. According to the Israeli
statement, the targets included surveillance posts and facilities the army
claimed were used to prepare for operations against its forces. The Israeli army
confirmed the continued deployment of its troops within the area it describes as
the "security zone" in southern Lebanon, noting that it would persist in
operations against what it deems threats to its forces and to the residents of
Israel. Regarding developments on the ground, Israeli warplanes launched a
two-wave airstrike on the "Old Square" (Al-Saha Al-Qadima) neighborhood in the
town of Nabatieh al-Fawqa. A medical rescue team from the Islamic Al-Risala
Scouts and the "Beit Al-Talaba" ambulance service narrowly escaped death; they
were targeted by a third airstrike from hostile warplanes while en route to the
site of the two previous raids on Nabatieh al-Fawqa. No casualties were
reported. The Israeli army also carried out demolition operations on the western
outskirts of the town of Mays al-Jabal, coinciding with similar operations in
the towns of Markaba and Talousa in southern Lebanon. Additionally, the Israeli
army set fire to more homes in Al-Mansouri, southern Lebanon. Israeli forces
also conducted a demolition operation in the town of Talousa, coinciding with
artillery shelling targeting the outskirts of Yahmar al-Shaqif and Zoutar al-Sharqiya.
Israeli warplanes launched a strike targeting the outskirts of Sarbine—near
Haris in the Bint Jbeil district—followed by another strike on the town itself.
Israeli shelling targeted the Al-Arayesh neighborhood in Al-Mansouri, coinciding
with a second strike on the town of Haris in the Bint Jbeil district. Israeli
warplanes also launched a series of strikes on Wadi al-Hujair and the areas
surrounding the towns of Haris and Sarbine, as well as the city of Nabatieh and
Nabatieh al-Fawqa in southern Lebanon. Later in the evening, the Israeli army
carried out two new demolition operations in Al-Mansouri, coinciding with a
military sweep on the outskirts of Zoutar al-Sharqiya. Earlier in the day, the
Israeli army executed a major demolition operation in Al-Khiam, alongside a
massive explosion in Al-Mansouri. At dawn, Israeli artillery shelled the
outskirts of Hadatha, Haris, and Mifdoun. Israeli aircraft also launched a
series of strikes on Al-Mansouri and Kafr Tibnit, and shelled Wadi al-Salouqi.
Investigations Expand into Network Recruiting and Training
Syrians Inside Lebanon
Al-Markaziya/September 19, 2026 (Translated from Arabic by the AI)
The case of the network suspected of recruiting and training Syrians within
Lebanon—in preparation for sending them to the Syrian coast to carry out
operations—has moved beyond mere circulating security intelligence or fodder for
political finger-pointing, following rapid judicial developments over the past
two weeks. After the initial arrest of five individuals and Hezbollah’s denial
of any connection to the matter, the investigation has expanded to include 14
people. Among them is an individual whom judicial sources identify as an
official linked to the party, responsible for overseeing smuggling and training
operations. According to judicial records, the Government Commissioner to the
Military Court, Judge Claude Ghanem, has pressed charges against 14 Lebanese and
Syrian nationals—including the five detainees—for offenses involving the
formation of a criminal gang and training in the use of weapons, explosives,
sniper rifles, and drones, amidst suspicions of plotting terrorist acts on the
Syrian coast. The case file has been referred to the First Military
Investigating Judge, Ghada Abu Alwan, to pursue the investigation. A key
development is the identification of a figure initially referred to in the
investigation simply as "Abu Alaa." Judicial sources state that this individual
is Yasser Alaa El-Din—known as "Hajj Alaa"—who remains at large. Information
from the investigation indicates that Alaa El-Din oversaw the smuggling and
training of network members at camps affiliated with the party in eastern
Lebanon prior to their transfer to the Syrian coast, where they were suspected
of intending to participate in operational activities. According to information
reported by *An-Nahar*, the network’s activities—as revealed by ongoing
investigations—extended beyond merely establishing training camps; they followed
a multi-stage process. The investigative findings indicate that Syrian nationals
were brought into Lebanon via illegal crossings in the north, particularly in
the Wadi Khaled area. From there, they were transported to the Southern Suburbs
and subsequently to the Bekaa region, where they underwent training in the use
of weapons, explosives, and drones before being sent back to Syria. Reports also
mention the entry into Lebanon—in successive batches—of more than 40 officers
and personnel from the remnants of the former Syrian regime, as part of the
broader operation currently being uncovered by investigators. The investigation
is examining more than just recruitment and training; reports suggest the
network was also active in smuggling military equipment, explosives, and drones
into Syria, utilizing transport vehicles and shipping containers suspected of
concealing the contraband during transit. Regarding the Syrian component of the
network, the name of Major General Mohammad Jaber—a former Syrian Army officer
from the era of the previous regime who is currently based in Russia—has
emerged. Investigative sources indicate he is suspected of managing the group
from abroad, while an individual known as "Hajj Alaa" handled the operational
aspects of smuggling and training within Lebanon. The case has taken on added
political and security sensitivity due to the discrepancy between Hezbollah’s
initial stance and the subsequent findings of the judicial investigation: while
the party denied any connection to the network, judicial data links one of the
defendants to the group and attributes to him a role in overseeing the training
and smuggling operations.
Ongoing Israeli Escalation in the South: Four Airstrikes on
Nabatieh Al-Fawqa and Machine-Gun Fire Toward Al-Qantara
Janoubia/September 19, 2026 (Translated from Arabic by the AI)
The Israeli army continues its military escalation across several areas of
southern Lebanon through airstrikes, detonations, and machine-gun fire.
Specifically, Israeli warplanes launched four airstrikes on Nabatieh Al-Fawqa
and one on the town of Kfar Tebnit, while an explosion was recorded in the town
of Al-Mansouri. Israeli forces also conducted heavy machine-gun fire toward the
town of Al-Qantara from the direction of Touline, coinciding with warnings to
residents against moving about in the neighborhoods facing the area. The gunfire
also extended to the outskirts of the town of Zoutar Al-Sharqiya.
Israeli Army Announces Two Soldiers Injured by Explosive Device in the South and
Retaliates with Attacks
Janoubia/September 19, 2026 (Translated from Arabic by the AI)
In a statement, the Israeli army claimed to have targeted Hezbollah
infrastructure in several areas of southern Lebanon in response to an explosive
device detonating against an engineering vehicle belonging to its forces in what
it described as the "security zone" in the south. The army alleged that
Hezbollah had planted the device—which exploded earlier on Saturday—and noted
that two soldiers sustained minor injuries and were transported for medical
treatment. It added that, following the explosion, it launched attacks on
several sites in southern Lebanon, including reconnaissance posts and
infrastructure allegedly used by Hezbollah operatives to prepare for and execute
operations against Israeli forces. The Israeli army confirmed that its forces
are maintaining their deployment in what it describes as the "security zone" in
southern Lebanon, in accordance with the agreement, and that they will continue
operations to eliminate what they deem threats to Israel and its forces.
Bridges over the Litani and new military roads... Israel prepares southern
Lebanon for a prolonged occupation
Janoubia/September 19, 2026 (Translated from Arabic by the AI)
The Israeli army continues to expand the military infrastructure it has
established within Lebanese territory by constructing crossings and bridges over
the Litani River and cutting roads dedicated to the movement of troops and
vehicles. Israel’s Channel 13 reported that these measures are part of the
army's preparations for a long-term presence in Lebanon. On Saturday, the
channel's military correspondent stated that the Israeli army is "building
bridges over the Litani River and constructing military roads," linking these
activities to preparations for an extended troop presence inside Lebanon, rather
than merely addressing immediate combat requirements. This report comes as the
Israeli army reorganizes its deployment in areas captured over the past few
months—specifically around Beaufort Castle (Qalaat al-Shaqif), the Ali al-Tahir
Heights, and the vicinity of the Litani River—areas Israel considers part of the
"security zone" it has established in southern Lebanon. Days earlier, Channel 13
reported that the army was redeploying in the Shaqif area following the
conclusion of operations at the Ali al-Tahir Heights, aiming to prevent
Hezbollah from returning to areas situated within what Israel calls the "Yellow
Line." Israeli officers stated that, during their operations, forces had opened
a new axis toward the Litani to reach Hezbollah positions from the rear. During
the ground operation launched by Israel toward the Litani River in late May,
Israeli engineering units constructed at least five bridges over the river and
opened new routes through rugged terrain, valleys, and woodlands to enable the
passage of troops and heavy vehicles to the opposite bank. On June 11, an
Israeli report revealed an operation in which the army utilized a route secretly
opened within a valley; this preceded engineering efforts to bridge the river
and open multiple axes deep within the area, facilitating the deployment of
larger forces toward the north of the Litani. The Israeli army subsequently
announced it had achieved "operational control" over parts of the Litani River,
stating that troops from the Golani Brigade had crossed the river and continued
operations in the area, while simultaneously uncovering sites, tunnels, weapons
depots, and launch platforms attributed to Hezbollah. What is new in the Channel
13 report is the significance Israel currently attaches to these engineering
activities. The bridges and roads—originally built to facilitate military
advancement—have become part of an infrastructure used by forces for movement,
resupply, and connecting the positions they hold inside Lebanon, given the
absence of any current Israeli decision to withdraw. The Israeli security
establishment had previously spoken of preparations for a "prolonged presence"
in southern Lebanon, noting ongoing activities such as earthworks, road
construction, troop rotations, and the destruction of tunnels and fortifications
within the Israeli-controlled zone. In August, Israeli reports indicated that
the army was constructing roads and bridges, as well as preparing additional
fortifications to protect its forces in southern Lebanon—moves that reinforce
the impression of a gradual shift in the Israeli deployment from a mobile
operational posture to a more static military structure. A key area of the
current Israeli deployment lies in the zone extending from the vicinity of the
Litani River toward Beaufort Castle (Qalaat al-Shaqif) and the Ali al-Tahir
Heights. Channel 13 identifies Shaqif and Ali al-Tahir as among the most
significant areas seized by the army during its operations north of the Litani.
Israeli Escalation in the South: Explosions, Artillery
Shelling, and Raids Hit Several Towns
Janoubia/September 19, 2026 (Translated from Arabic by the AI)
On Saturday, several areas in southern Lebanon witnessed an Israeli field
escalation involving artillery shelling, airstrikes, and explosions that struck
various towns and high-ground areas. Specifically, the outskirts of Yahmar Al-Shaqif
and Zawtar Al-Sharqiya came under Israeli shelling, while a massive explosion
was heard in Mays Al-Jabal, coinciding with shelling targeting Wadi Zibqin and
the burning of additional homes in Al-Mansouri. Explosions were also recorded in
the towns of Markaba and Talousa, as well as in Al-Tiri, while Israeli aircraft
carried out a raid on Sarbin and another on the outskirts of Haris-Hadatha. In
the Wadi Al-Salouqi area, a Merkava tank fired four shells toward Jabal Al-Salouqi
from the direction of Majdal Selem. Artillery shelling also struck Nabatieh Al-Fawqa
and Zawtar Al-Sharqiya, as the escalation continued across several southern
regions.
Escalation in the South: Intensive Raids on Al-Mansouri and
Artillery Shelling Hits Al-Qantara and Al-Arid
Janoubia/September 19, 2026 (Translated from Arabic by the AI)
Israeli forces continue to intensify their aerial and ground attacks on the
towns and villages of southern Lebanon. The region has witnessed a series of
raids and violent explosions, coinciding with heightened field tensions and a
state of alert between the Lebanese Army and occupation forces along the
southern outskirts. Renewed raids and shelling targeting health facilities: A
wave of Israeli airstrikes and explosions struck wide areas across the western
and central sectors; the following field developments were recorded:
Al-Mansouri and Al-Bayyadah: Israeli warplanes renewed intense airstrikes on the
town of Al-Mansouri in southern Lebanon, hitting it with two consecutive raids
in the evening. This coincided with artillery shelling and explosions carried
out by the occupation forces in the Al-Bayyadah area. Mays al-Jabal: The
National News Agency reported that Israeli forces set fire to the Mays al-Jabal
Governmental Hospital, as part of the ongoing targeting of vital and health
facilities. Al-Arid and Al-Qantara: Artillery and missile shelling continued to
target homes and the outskirts of the towns of Al-Arid and Al-Qantara, causing
extensive material damage.
On the front lines, the town of Deir Mimas experienced a security standoff after
an Israeli force advanced toward the town's outskirts, reaching an intersection
near a newly established Lebanese Army military post. In an official statement,
the Lebanese Army detailed the events: "On September 18, 2026, a force belonging
to the Israeli occupation approached the newly established post within the
so-called 'security zone' and threw sound bombs in the vicinity. Consequently,
the Army reinforced the post, and a state of high alert ensued between the two
sides. Following contacts made through the coordination mechanism (MCG4L), the
Israeli force withdrew from the site, and Army personnel subsequently returned
to their main center in the town." In contrast, an Israeli military source
stated that occupation forces are continuing their deployment several kilometers
deep into Lebanese territory—within what was described as a "defensive security
belt"—justifying the ongoing offensive operations and detonations by claiming to
have discovered and destroyed weapons depots and launch sites in border
villages.
Countdown to UNIFIL Withdrawal: Commander Reveals
Prerequisites for Departure
Janoubia//September 19, 2026 (Translated from Arabic by the AI)
Major General Deodato Abagnara, Head of Mission and Force Commander of the
United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), has warned of the challenges
that could accompany the force's withdrawal from southern Lebanon. He emphasized
the necessity of ensuring that the UN and the Lebanese Army are capable of
assuming the tasks currently performed by UNIFIL before the anticipated
withdrawal at the end of the year. Speaking to Reuters from a UNIFIL site in
southern Lebanon, Abagnara stated that it is "crucial" to execute a smooth
transition to other UN entities or to pave the way for a future mission. This
comes as Lebanon prepares for the UNIFIL withdrawal mandated by a Security
Council resolution, amidst concerns regarding the fate of humanitarian aid and
the logistics of transferring the force's sites and responsibilities to the
Lebanese Army. Abagnara explained that UNIFIL is already collaborating with the
UN team dedicated to Lebanon to ensure the continued delivery of humanitarian
aid to areas under Israeli control; the force is also sharing information with
the Lebanese Army regarding "sensitive areas and how to manage the situation."
He noted that the transition process could prove "extremely difficult" at
certain locations, particularly given that more than half of UNIFIL’s sites are
situated in areas currently controlled by Israeli forces. Since the outbreak of
the war between Israel and Hezbollah last March, UNIFIL has also been
responsible for the security monitoring of humanitarian aid convoys heading to
various towns in southern Lebanon, while residents across large swathes of the
south have been displaced by Israeli airstrikes and evacuation orders. Diplomats
believe that the force's withdrawal could deprive the United Nations of a
crucial part of its capacity to monitor developments on the ground in southern
Lebanon, given that UNIFIL has maintained a continuous UN presence in the region
for decades. Speaking from a vantage point overlooking the town of Al-Mansouri,
Abaniara noted that Israeli forces have been carrying out demolition operations
since residents were ordered to leave in June, despite the ongoing ceasefire. He
described these demolitions as "another violation" of UN Security Council
resolutions concerning Lebanon, whereas the Israeli military maintains it is
targeting Hezbollah infrastructure across various areas of southern Lebanon.
Amid the stalling of the US-backed plan to disarm Hezbollah and extend state
authority in the south, diplomatic efforts are intensifying to find a formula
for the post-UNIFIL withdrawal phase. Lebanon insists on extending the force's
mandate, while other nations are discussing the possibility of forming a
multinational international mission; however, the nature of any new mandate
remains undecided. Abaniara stated that extending UNIFIL’s mission would be a
"great honor," but clarified that without a new Security Council resolution, the
force would be compelled to conclude its operations by the end of the year. He
added, "That is not a long time... The UN presence in the south is vital; to me,
it is more important today than ever before."
From Pagers to the Assassination of Nasrallah: How Did Israel Alter the Course
of the Confrontation with Hezbollah?
Janoubia/September 19, 2024 (Translated from Arabic by the AI)
According to an analysis by writer Shimon Refaeli, the JNS website reported that
September 17, 2024, marked a turning point in the confrontation between Israel
and Hezbollah. On that day, pagers began exploding in the pockets of thousands
of the group's operatives across Lebanon, followed the next day by a second wave
targeting two-way radios used by the organization. The article states that the
operation began at 3:30 PM, when alert signals sounded from the pagers—devices
Hezbollah operatives relied on as a safer alternative to mobile phones—before
the devices transformed into explosive instruments within seconds. Refaeli noted
that the explosions occurred in Beirut, the Bekaa Valley, and other areas,
continuing for about an hour, while the second wave the following day involved
exploding radios; over the course of two days, these events resulted in dozens
of deaths and thousands of injuries, including among civilians. Subsequent
developments revealed that the operation was not the result of a fleeting
technical breach but rather the fruit of an intelligence and deception system
built over years. This system involved infiltrating Hezbollah’s supply chain and
establishing a commercial front designed to induce the group to purchase the
pre-rigged devices itself. Refaeli argues that the operation's significance lay
not merely in the scale of the casualties, but in what he viewed as a shift in
control over the tempo of the confrontation. He states that for months,
Hezbollah held considerable leeway in determining the timing, location, and
escalation level of fire, while Israel merely responded to attacks and targeted
the group's positions. However, according to his analysis, the "pager operation"
shifted Israel from a reactive stance—waiting for the next move—to a proactive
one, having successfully breached Hezbollah’s systems and forced it to confront
a reality for which it was unprepared. The article notes that the impact was not
merely physical; it also affected the group's organizational and psychological
fabric. Hezbollah discovered that the threat extended beyond the exposure of
command centers, weapons depots, and missile launchers to encompass its supply
chain, communication systems, and the very devices carried in its operatives'
pockets. These concerns subsequently prompted Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard
Corps (IRGC) to order its personnel to stop using certain communication devices
and to inspect their systems for fear of similar breaches. The author believes
this initial shock allowed Israel to exploit the ensuing disarray and execute a
series of operations against Hezbollah commanders before the organization could
regain its footing. Just days after the pager operation—on September 20,
2024—Ibrahim Aqil, a senior Hezbollah commander and head of operations, was
killed alongside several leaders of the Radwan Force, the article reports.
Israeli strikes subsequently expanded to target infrastructure, missile
launchers, and command centers. On September 27, Hezbollah’s central
headquarters in Beirut’s southern suburbs was targeted, and the group’s
Secretary-General, Hassan Nasrallah, was killed. Rifai asserts that the "pager
operation" alone did not defeat Hezbollah; however, he views it as the opening
salvo in a series of operations that, within weeks, transformed the organization
from a force that believed it was imposing a deterrence equation on Israel into
one struggling to preserve its leadership, communication network, and
organizational structure. The author outlines what he considers the primary
lesson of the events of September 17: deterrence is not achieved through
rhetoric, but rather when the opposing party discovers that its calculations
regarding costs and risks diverge from reality. He notes that while Israel had
spoken for years about the need to "maintain deterrence," deterrence is not a
static element but one subject to constant testing. According to his analysis,
Hezbollah’s sustained ability to keep tens of thousands of Israelis away from
their homes for months—without incurring a cost that undermined its own sense of
security—was eroding deterrence, a trend that the September 17 operation began
to reverse.
Rifai identifies a second lesson: possessing advanced intelligence is
insufficient without the capacity to translate it into action. The article
indicates that post-operation revelations showed the infiltration of Hezbollah’s
communication network did not happen overnight; the breach began years earlier,
while the development of the pager project dated back to 2022. He points out
that the operation required the creation of companies, supply chains, products,
and marketing mechanisms specifically designed to induce the group to purchase
the devices itself. The article then shifts to the political dimension, positing
that military success can also alter the diplomatic landscape. In his analysis,
the author rejects a strict separation between force and diplomacy, arguing that
developments on the ground can shift incentives and reshape the terms of
negotiation. He notes that following the Israeli campaign against Hezbollah, a
ceasefire was reached in November 2024; this agreement included arrangements
linked to UN Resolution 1701, the deployment of the Lebanese Army in the south,
and the withdrawal of Hezbollah forces to the area north of the Litani River. He
concludes that the shift in the confrontation after September 2024 established
Israel—in his view—as a party whose capabilities and limitations cannot be
ignored when addressing regional realities. Rifai concludes his article by
stating that the primary significance of the "pager operation" lay not merely in
the scale of the damage inflicted, but in the fact that it restored—in his
words—the "initiative" to the Israeli side. As he sees it, the operation
demonstrated Israel's ability to leverage intelligence and determine the timing
and method of the action, rather than simply reacting to the moves of its
adversaries. Consequently, the author views the events of September 17, 2024,
not as an isolated incident, but as the start of a series of developments that
reshaped the confrontation with Hezbollah and—from his perspective—altered the
terms of conflict and negotiation in the region.
Hezbollah Doubles Down on Its Bet on Iran: Casting Its Support Base and the
South into Israel’s Jaws!
Lara Yazbeck/Al-Markaziya/September 19, 2026 (Translated from Arabic by the AI)
MP Hussein Hajj Hassan, head of the Baalbek-Hermel bloc, reaffirmed Hezbollah’s
commitment to its alliance with Iran. He declared that the party and its allies
in Lebanon consider themselves part of the strategic equation governing the
Straits of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab, while attacking Lebanese factions that hold
differing political views, labeling them "stooges of America."
Hajj Hassan stated that the United States did not halt the war out of
"benevolence," but rather due to the destruction inflicted upon its bases. He
argued that an equation of "oil for oil and bases for bases" is now in effect in
the Gulf, and that Lebanon is "part of it." He added that Iran had informed
Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri that Lebanon "was, is, and will remain part" of
any agreement Tehran might reach with the United States, urging "steadfastness
and patience." Speaking at a commemoration for the "pager" bombing incident,
Hajj Hassan emphasized that Hezbollah had not been weakened despite the blows it
sustained, stating: "Let no one bet on Hezbollah and the Resistance having
weakened after 2024 and 2026." He asserted that the party possesses a "strong,
capable, and potent resistance," alongside allies and a "cohesive, strong, and
patient support base," reaffirming the continued reliance on Iran and the
party's regional allies. In essence, according to "sovereignist" political
sources speaking to *Al-Markaziya*, Hajj Hassan’s position reflects the Party’s
insistence on refusing to cooperate with the Lebanese state’s negotiation
process—even though it could have spared the South the disaster of the Ali al-Tahir
hills falling into Israeli hands, along with everything and everyone inside
them. Instead, the Party persists in tethering the situation in the South—and
Lebanon as a whole—to US-Iran negotiations. What is strange (or perhaps
unsurprising, according to the sources) is that the Party continues to pin its
hopes on Iran—and urges its support base to do the same—despite the fact that
the Islamic Republic stood by and watched as the Party suffered defeats at Ali
al-Tahir, Khiam, and Bint Jbeil without lifting a finger; indeed, some Iranian
analysts even publicly declared that "the South is finished." Yet, regardless of
this reality, the sources note that US-Iran negotiations show no signs of a
breakthrough in the foreseeable future; on the contrary, US President Donald
Trump was heard on Thursday threatening a return to the military option. Given
the current balance of power, can the Party’s support base and the Lebanese
South afford to wait for these US-Iran talks—and their eventual outcome,
particularly the prospect of failure—especially knowing that Washington would
not agree to include Lebanon in the "deal" even if the negotiations succeeded?
The sources conclude that the stance taken by the Party and Hajj Hassan is, at
the very least, irresponsible; it leaves the Shiite community and the Lebanese
people exposed, casting them—along with their livelihoods and lands—further into
the jaws of the Israeli lion.
Salam heads to New York and Washington to deliver Lebanon’s UN address and meet
Rubio
Prime Minister seeks aid for liberation; Israel: We are staying until the army
becomes strong
Tel Aviv responds to an explosive device planted by the Party; IMF: Progress
despite the war
Al-Markaziya/September 19, 2026 (Translated from Arabic by the AI)
Between the week of the preparatory meeting in Paris for the conference
supporting the Lebanese Army and the week of the UN General Assembly—on the
sidelines of which official Lebanese representatives will hold meetings and
contacts in New York and Washington—domestic political activity appeared to be
in a lull. This stands in contrast to the reality on the southern front, which
knows no truce. Notably, any de-escalation on the ground—much like the military,
economic, or financial aid the country desperately needs—has become largely
contingent on the Lebanese state beginning to implement decisions to restrict
the possession of arms solely to legitimate state authorities.
Liberation and Negotiation: Amidst this hazy, overcast atmosphere—reminiscent of
September weather—Prime Minister Nawaf Salam is heading to New York. There, he
will ask the international community—just as President General Joseph Aoun did
in Paris on Thursday—to assist Lebanon (both state and army) in halting Israeli
aggression, securing an Israeli withdrawal, and advancing the negotiation
process between Beirut and Tel Aviv, for which no specific date has yet been
set.
Until the Army Becomes Strong: Official Lebanese efforts are unfolding while
Israel appears to be focused elsewhere, preparing for a prolonged presence in
Lebanon until its army takes a decisive stand against Hezbollah. Following the
Israeli Chief of Staff’s announcement of this position a few days ago, US
Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee stated that the Israeli army would remain in
southern Lebanon until the Lebanese army becomes strong. For his part, the
military correspondent for Israel’s Channel 13 reported that the Israeli army is
constructing bridges over the Litani River and cutting military roads—moves that
are part of its preparations for a prolonged presence in Lebanon.
Between New York and Washington: The Prime Minister’s office announced this
morning that Salam has departed for the United States. He is heading first to
New York to participate in the UN General Assembly proceedings and deliver
Lebanon’s address. On the sidelines of the General Assembly, Salam will hold a
series of bilateral meetings with various heads of state and international
officials. He will subsequently travel to Washington, where he is scheduled to
hold a series of meetings—most notably with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio,
as well as International Monetary Fund Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva,
World Bank Group President Ajay Banga, and a number of other US and
international officials.
Raids and Shelling: Returning to the southern front, the day witnessed a new
round of escalation after the Israeli army announced that two soldiers were
wounded by an explosive device—which it accused the Party of planting—and
subsequently launched a series of raids on sites across various areas of the
south. Ella Waweya, the Israeli army’s spokesperson for Arabic media, stated in
a post on X that an explosive device detonated on Saturday, striking an
engineering vehicle belonging to Israeli forces within what Israel terms the
"security zone" in southern Lebanon. According to the Israeli account, the blast
caused minor injuries to two soldiers, who were transported for medical
treatment. The Israeli army accused the Party of planting the device and
announced that, in response, it had launched raids targeting several sites and
infrastructure belonging to the Party across southern Lebanon. The Israeli
statement noted that the targets included surveillance posts and facilities the
army claimed were used to prepare for operations against its forces. The Israeli
army confirmed the continued deployment of its troops within the "security zone"
in southern Lebanon, indicating it would persist in operations against what it
deems threats to its forces and Israeli residents. Additionally, Israeli
warplanes conducted a two-wave raid on the "Old Square" (Al-Saha Al-Qadima)
neighborhood in the town of Nabatieh Al-Fawqa. Earlier in the morning, the
Israeli army carried out a major demolition operation in Al-Khiam, coinciding
with a massive explosion in Al-Mansouri, southern Lebanon. At dawn, Israeli
artillery shelled the outskirts of Hadatha, Haris, and Mifdoun. Israeli aircraft
also launched a series of raids on Al-Mansouri and Kfar Tebnit, and shelled Wadi
Al-Salouqi. IMF: On the economic front—which has been heavily impacted by the
consequences of the "support front" hostilities—an International Monetary Fund
(IMF) mission led by Ernesto Ramirez Rigo concluded a visit to Beirut (September
15–18, 2026). During the visit, the mission discussed macroeconomic prospects
and progress made on key economic and financial reforms. At the conclusion of
the visit, Rigo issued a statement noting that "the conflict between Hezbollah
and Israel, along with regional security developments, has once again inflicted
severe damage on the Lebanese economy and living conditions. Economic activity
is projected to contract significantly in 2026; inflation remains in the double
digits, and the current account deficit has widened, driven primarily by rising
energy costs. Extensive damage has been sustained by infrastructure and housing,
and Lebanon has witnessed large-scale internal displacement, accompanied by a
significant deterioration in the living standards of displaced persons. Amidst
these extremely difficult circumstances, the mission commends the Lebanese
authorities for maintaining a degree of stability, including through the
continued pursuit of prudent fiscal and monetary policies." The mission welcomed
the progress made in budget management since the experts' previous visit—a step
representing significant movement toward a more sustainable fiscal position.
Fund experts also welcomed the approval of amendments to the law on bank
regulation and resolution; these amendments align with international best
practices and provide an effective, orderly framework for bank resolution and
liquidation, thereby establishing a suitable foundation for addressing the
banking sector crisis. Building on this progress and the intensive consultations
held in recent months, discussions with the authorities focused on the
amendments required to align the Financial Stability and Deposit Recovery Law
with international standards.
Bread Prices: Nasser Srour, head of the Bakery Owners' Syndicate, warned that
the rapid rise in the prices of fuel, wheat, flour, and other ingredients used
in bread production would inevitably lead to an increase in the price of a
bundle of bread. He explained that the pricing mechanism agreed upon with the
Ministry of Economy calculates costs based on fluctuations in raw material
prices and the exchange rate. He noted that last week’s price was set based on a
diesel cost of $1,430 per ton—before the price rose to $1,500 on Friday—without
accounting for the full extent of the recent hikes in the costs of wheat, flour,
and other materials.
Fuel Prices: Meanwhile, bus drivers blocked the road at Abdel Hamid Karami
Square in Tripoli to protest rising fuel prices.
Targeting Riyadh: Regionally, it appears that the Iran-backed Houthis are
expanding their attacks on Saudi Arabia. Following the targeting of Mecca, they
appear to have targeted—or attempted to target—Riyadh’s airport. King Khalid
International Airport in Riyadh experienced significant flight disruptions
today, with long delays and numerous cancellations reported, according to the
flight-tracking website FlightRadar24. The site classified the airport under its
highest disruption category, indicating "major disruptions involving long delays
and multiple flight cancellations." AFP quoted witnesses who reported seeing
black smoke rising near the Riyadh airport. The agency reported that the smoke
was sighted hours after the sound of explosions—the first in the city since the
start of the current escalation with the Houthis in Yemen—was heard.
Soft Espionage terrifies Tel Aviv.. Has the secrecy of Israeli weapons ended
after the Lebanon-Iran war?
Janoubia/September 19, 2026 (Translated from Arabic by the AI)
Fears and warnings are increasing within the Israeli security establishment
about intense attempts led by international forces - including allied and
friendly countries - to collect accurate data and intelligence information about
the methods of operation of the Israeli army and the weapons and secret
capabilities that were used during its recent confrontations and operations,
according to what was revealed by the Israeli “Walla” website. The website
quoted a senior security official as saying that the security services in Israel
monitored what he described as “soft espionage.” It is an intelligence style
that does not necessarily rely on traditional hacking or electronic hacking
operations, but rather is based on collecting and analyzing the intersections of
available and declared information with the aim of “deciphering” the military
tactics and exceptional capabilities adopted by Israel. Security services
estimates indicate that this international interest is focused specifically on
the nature and mechanism of carrying out specific operations in three main
arenas:
Iran: Revealing the mechanisms for carrying out strikes and cross-border
operations.
Lebanon: Analysis of technological and intelligence capabilities and field
tactics.
Yemen: Evaluating ways to deal with long-range threats and tracking the paths of
drones and missiles.
The security establishment believes that these techniques and secret weapons are
what gave the Israeli army a significant operational and field superiority
during the recent confrontations. The Walla report stated that this issue
received intense discussions during closed security meetings held recently,
during which directives were issued on the necessity of tightening information
security procedures and imposing strict control on all materials and data that
are allowed to be published publicly. The report indicated that the “pager
bombing operation” in Lebanon in 2024 constitutes a blatant example and a
remarkable exposure of intelligence capabilities following their use. Leaks and
statements made by officials and those involved in the operation later led to
the revelation of extensive details and precise implementation mechanisms that
should have remained mysterious. In the past, the main challenge was to protect
secrets and secure security before executing operations to limit traditional
intrusions and hostile activities. However, the current challenge facing the
Israeli security establishment has expanded to include preventing opponents -
and even friendly countries - from “rebuilding” a comprehensive intelligence
picture of Israeli capabilities and weapons through analysis of leaked details
and “soft espionage” after their use on the battlefields.
60 Towns Facing Demolition… Is Southern Lebanon Bracing for
a Phase Without Witnesses?
Janoubia/September 19, 2026 (Translated from Arabic by the AI)
Southern Lebanon is approaching a highly sensitive security phase as the United
Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) nears the end of its operations. There
are concerns that a withdrawal could create a vacuum regarding both field
presence and monitoring, granting Israel greater latitude to operate within
Lebanese territory in the absence of an international presence on the ground.
According to a report by journalists Edouard Elias and Hélène Sallon in *Le
Monde*, the Israeli army controls a strip extending approximately 10 kilometers
into southern Lebanon—an area equivalent to about 6% of the country's total
territory. The newspaper notes that more than 60 towns and villages have been
destroyed by explosives and engineering machinery; demolition operations are
ongoing in several areas—including Al-Mansouri—alongside the use of artillery
and drone-dropped explosive devices. The Israeli army has deployed armored
vehicles and tanks across the area and established four semi-permanent bases, in
addition to five positions it has controlled along the Blue Line since the 2024
ceasefire.
UNIFIL’s rapid reaction force documents these movements. *Le Monde* quoted the
force's commander, Colonel Loday, stating that the mission involves monitoring
the implementation of Resolution 1701, reporting violations, protecting the
civilian population, and assisting Lebanese state institutions in restoring
their authority.
The French unit currently deployed comprises approximately 700 soldiers who
arrived in mid-May during the war between Israel and Hezbollah. According to a
UN source cited by the newspaper, UNIFIL has faced attacks from both sides,
resulting in the deaths of seven of its personnel—including two French soldiers
killed in an ambush attributed to Hezbollah on April 18. Despite facing Israeli
warning fire, blocked roads, and the presence of landmines, UNIFIL continues to
supply its positions and escort aid convoys to isolated villages. However, its
field operations have noticeably declined; the number of daily patrols has
dropped from around 300 to just over 100, while joint patrols with the Lebanese
Army have virtually ceased. A UN source cited by *Le Monde* indicated that the
Lebanese Army has scaled back its cooperation with UNIFIL at the request of the
United States; meanwhile, the international force has no contact with the new
ceasefire monitoring mechanism and receives no information regarding the terms
for Hezbollah’s disarmament. The source noted that Hezbollah has largely
withdrawn from the occupied area, though traces of its presence—such as
landmines and booby traps—remain. Under a UN resolution issued in August 2025,
UNIFIL’s force of approximately 7,500 troops is scheduled to withdraw gradually
by September 30, 2027, at a rate of 1,000 soldiers and six positions per month,
moving from east to west.
The international force fears that the Israeli army might seize its thirty
positions deployed along the Blue Line. The newspaper quoted a UN source as
saying that a departure by UNIFIL could mean the absence of international
oversight, adding: "Once we leave, the Israelis will have little incentive to
withdraw, and they will be able to do whatever they want without witnesses."
French Ambassador to Lebanon Patrick Durel warned of a potential security
vacuum, emphasizing that the Lebanese people desire a continued international
presence in the south. Paris is leading consultations within the UN Security
Council to seek an alternative arrangement; the European Union has proposed a
training and advisory force north of the Litani River, while France and Italy
have suggested forming a multinational force south of it. However, Israel
opposes the deployment of a French force, whereas Hezbollah insists that any new
force must operate under a UN mandate. A potential withdrawal raises concerns
among the approximately 7,000 residents of the towns of Ain Ebel, Debel, and
Rmeich, as these villages have become increasingly isolated and obtaining travel
permits between them has grown more difficult. Ain Ebel Mayor Ayoub Khreich
stated that living conditions are deteriorating daily, warning that a UNIFIL
departure could sever one of the border villages' last remaining links to the
outside world and threaten the residents' ability to remain there.
Prime Minister Salam Heads to New York to Participate in
UN General Assembly Proceedings
NNA/September 19, 2026 (Translated from Arabic by the AI)
Prime Minister Dr. Nawaf Salam is departing for the United States, heading first
to New York to participate in the proceedings of the UN General Assembly and
deliver Lebanon’s address. On the sidelines of the General Assembly, Prime
Minister Salam will hold a series of bilateral meetings with various heads of
state and international officials. He will subsequently travel to Washington,
where he is scheduled to hold a series of meetings—most notably with US
Secretary of State Marco Rubio, as well as International Monetary Fund Managing
Director Kristalina Georgieva, World Bank Group President Ajay Banga, and other
US and international officials.
Foreign Ministry Condemns Attack on Riyadh
NNA/September 19, 2026 (Translated from Arabic by the AI)
In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants condemned "in the
strongest terms the aerial attack that targeted the Saudi capital, Riyadh, this
morning." The Ministry stated that "threatening the security of the Kingdom of
Saudi Arabia constitutes a grave violation of international law and a threat to
regional security and stability." Expressing its full solidarity with the
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Ministry affirmed its support for the Kingdom "in
the face of any aggression targeting its security and territorial integrity." It
reiterated its categorical rejection of any targeting of cities and civilian
facilities, or actions that endanger the lives of civilians.
Mass Rally in Tripoli Opposing the Challenge to the General
Amnesty Law
Janoubia/September 19, 2026 (Translated from Arabic by the AI)
All eyes are turning to Al-Nour Square in Tripoli for tomorrow
afternoon—following the Asr prayer—where a massive public sit-in is expected to
take place in opposition to the legal challenge filed against the General
Amnesty Law. Calls for participation in the rally are widening across popular,
political, and social spheres. Prominent figures from the North—including MPs,
mayors, and *mukhtars* (local officials), alongside religious scholars, legal
experts, social figures, civil society organizations, and committees
representing prisoners' families—have emphasized the importance of active
participation. They view the sit-in as a platform to voice opposition to what
they describe as attempts to perpetuate injustice or circumvent efforts to
alleviate the suffering of prisoners' families.
The organizers stressed the importance of a strong turnout at Al-Nour Square
immediately after the Asr prayer to convey the stance of the people of Tripoli
and surrounding areas regarding the General Amnesty Law and to reiterate their
associated demands.
They called for the broadest possible public participation in the sit-in,
anticipating a demonstration aimed at unifying the opposition to the legal
challenge and demanding a swift resolution regarding the law's fate.
Gathering of Lebanese Shiites: Withholding No-Confidence
Vote Reflects Hezbollah's Acceptance of the Framework Agreement
Janoubia/September 19, 2026 (Translated from Arabic by the AI)
The "Gathering of Lebanese Shiites" held its weekly meeting at its headquarters
to discuss political and field developments in Lebanon—specifically the results
of the government's vote of confidence and the situation in the South—and issued
a statement read by the Gathering’s coordinator, Sayyed Mohammad Al-Amin. The
statement described the government securing the vote of confidence as a "slap in
the face" to those who sought to withhold it. It noted that the withdrawal of
the "Loyalty to the Resistance" bloc from the session served—in the Gathering's
view—as a "clear signal of the group's acceptance of the existing reality and
its determination to cling to power at any cost." Furthermore, the statement
asserted that this stance constitutes "clear evidence of its acceptance of the
framework agreement between Lebanon and Israel and its endorsement of the
agreement's legitimacy." It also viewed the move as reflecting what it termed
"helplessness in the face of the Israeli invasion and the occupation of
two-thirds of the southern villages." The Gathering called on the government to
fulfill its obligations toward citizens, starting with the implementation of
sovereign decisions—particularly the consolidation of arms under state
control—and extending to addressing the economic, service-related, and living
conditions from which the Lebanese people suffer. The Gathering also addressed
the visit of President Joseph Aoun to the South, deeming it a step that could
pave the way for strengthening the state's presence through the army and
legitimate institutions. It expressed hope that this move would contribute to
"ending the reality of tutelage and the *fait accompli*" and allow the people of
the South to reclaim their right to live under the authority of the state and
its institutions, free from any entity imposing its will through the force of
arms. The meeting acknowledged the international efforts made to support the
Lebanese Army—particularly through the "Aqaba Process" and the Paris meeting—as
well as official stances emphasizing the importance of restricting arms to the
State and extending its authority, viewing this as a fundamental element of
stability. Regarding developments on the ground in the south, the meeting valued
the diplomatic contacts and coordination mechanisms that—according to the
statement—helped contain tensions and friction at several border points, notably
Deir Mimas and Ali al-Tahir, and prevented their escalation. The meeting
concluded by stressing that the current phase requires accelerating reform and
economic plans and consolidating the State’s security authority, alongside
continued diplomatic efforts to prevent the situation from spiraling into
broader confrontations.
The Latest English LCCC
Miscellaneous Reports And News published
on September 19-20/2026
US renews warning to its nationals in
the Middle East / Complex security environment with possibility of unexpected
escalation
Riyadh: Al Arabiya.net September 19, 2026 The United States renewed on Saturday
its warning to its nationals in the Middle East and asked them to exercise
caution. A statement by the US State Department said that due to tensions in the
Middle East, the security environment remains complex with the possibility of
unexpected escalation. The statement called on US citizens currently in the
Middle East to exercise the utmost vigilance and caution, and to be aware of the
possibility of flight cancellations, airspace closures, and travel disruptions.
The statement pointed to the engagement of the Houthi group - backed by Iran -
in hostile acts against the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; and this military conflict
is capable of escalating rapidly. The statement stressed that Americans outside
the Middle East should seriously reconsider traveling to or through the region.
The statement asked travelers from or to the region to follow information
related to airport and airline operations. The statement pointed out that US
diplomatic facilities - including those outside the Middle East - have been
targeted; Iran and its affiliated groups may target other US interests abroad,
or locations associated with the United States and Americans throughout the
world, including American companies and institutions. The United States has been
warning its citizens against travel to the region since the outbreak of
hostilities in the Middle East last February.
Trump announces plan to create an "Artificial Intelligence
force" and appoint an official for it... "We will not hinder or curb the growth
of this amazing industry"
Reuters/September 19, 2026
US President Donald Trump said in a post on social media today, Saturday, that
he will create an "Artificial Intelligence force" to oversee the regulation of
the sector and that he will appoint an official in charge of Artificial
Intelligence in the near future. Trump added on the Truth Social platform, "We
will not hinder or curb the growth of this amazing industry in any way... On the
contrary, we will be proud of it, support it, and develop it... but we will also
look at the negative aspects, and we can do that very easily through the
criminal and civil justice system that we already have." The White House has not
yet responded to a request for comment. Trump wrote in a post a few days ago
that there is a "malicious conspiracy" being hatched against Artificial
Intelligence and data centers, and rejected calls demanding new federal rules
for Artificial Intelligence, considering that the United States needs only a
strong president to regulate this sector. US officials said they will raise the
issue of Artificial Intelligence in talks with China, at a time when the US
President is preparing to meet with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping next
week. Both Washington and Beijing consider progress in the field of Artificial
Intelligence crucial to their economic and military competitiveness, but they
remain at odds over access to advanced chips, allegations of technology copying,
and regulation of the Artificial Intelligence sector.
Iran: Ready to return to diplomacy with Washington if it
proves its seriousness / Iran conditions full implementation of Islamabad
agreement to resume nuclear talks
Riyadh: Al Arabiya.net and agencies/September 19, 2026 (Translated from Arabic
by the AI)
A high-level Iranian source told the "TASS" agency that Iran is ready to return
to a diplomatic settlement of the conflict with the United States if Washington
proves its seriousness, in his words. The source said: "The ball is now in the
United States' court. It is better to return to diplomacy, but we must see the
United States' true desire to return to peace. Whatever document they wish to
sign, they must prove their respect for the signatures of both parties. The
United States must convince the mediators and Iran of the sincerity of its
intentions." The source pointed out that Tehran still sees the possibility of
nuclear talks, but only after the full implementation of the Islamabad
agreement, which included unfreezing assets and lifting restrictions on Iranian
oil exports. This comes while officials said that Pakistan is preparing to send
another high-level delegation to Tehran, in a new diplomatic effort aimed at
breaking the deadlock between Iran and the United States. There has been no
official confirmation regarding the planned visit from Islamabad or Tehran.
However, a senior government official told the Pakistani newspaper "Express
Tribune" that another visit to the Iranian capital is being planned and could
take place very soon. The official did not reveal the composition of the
delegation, but the Iranian agency "Mehr" indicated today, Saturday, quoting an
informed source, the possibility of Pakistani Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi
traveling to Tehran during this week. The proposed visit comes at a time when
Pakistan is trying to maintain its role as a bridge between Iran and the United
States.
Guterres to Al Arabiya: We strongly condemn Houthi attacks
on Saudi Arabia... "Attacks targeting Saudi ships are completely unacceptable"
Riyadh: Al Arabiya.net/September 19, 2026 (Translated from Arabic
by the AI)
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told Al Arabiya / Al Hadath on Sunday that
he strongly condemns the Houthi attacks on infrastructure in Saudi Arabia.
Guterres stressed to Al Arabiya / Al Hadath the utmost importance of respecting
freedom of navigation, including in the Bab al-Mandab Strait. The UN
Secretary-General had earlier received Jasem Mohamed Al-Budaiwi,
Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the
Gulf, on Saturday, on the sidelines of Al-Budaiwi's participation in the
meetings of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in the
United States in New York. Both sides condemned the attacks by the Houthi
militia on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and their targeting of civilian objects
and the threat of these attacks to security and stability in the region, in
addition to discussing a number of regional files and the efforts made towards
them.
Coalition spokesman: Air defenses thwarted Houthi hostile
attempts... Interception and destruction of ballistic missile launched towards
Riyadh
Riyadh: Al Arabiya.net/September 19, 2026 (Translated from Arabic by the AI)
The spokesman for the "Coalition to Support Legitimacy in Yemen" forces
announced today, Saturday, the success of the Saudi air defense forces at dawn
on Saturday in intercepting and destroying a ballistic missile launched by the
terrorist Houthi militia towards the city of Riyadh. The spokesman, Major
General Turki Al-Maliki, explained in a statement published on the X platform:
"The escalation by the terrorist Houthi militia and its continued attempts to
target civilians and civilian objects in Riyadh confirms the intransigence of
this militia and its persistence in targeting civilians and civilian objects in
a systematic manner in a terrorist and hostile behavior." Major General Al-Maliki
added that the Houthi militia tried to target civilians and civilian objects in
the cities of (Baish, Taif, Farasan, and Yanbu) and the hostile attempts were
thwarted by air defenses. Major General Al-Maliki stressed the inherent right of
the Coalition leadership to take whatever it deems appropriate and in accordance
with international humanitarian law and its customary rules to deter the
behavior of the terrorist Houthi militia.
Yemen.. Armed Forces thwart Houthi infiltration attempt
south of Marib... Clashes resulted in death of 12 Houthi militia members and
injury of others
Riyadh: Al Arabiya.net/September 19, 2026 (Translated from Arabic
by the AI)
The Yemeni Armed Forces thwarted, today Saturday, an infiltration attempt
carried out by the Houthi militia, on the southern fronts of Marib Governorate.
Soldiers of the Armed Forces clashed with infiltrating elements of the Houthi
militia in the Al-Fulaiha sector, and forced them to retreat and flee leaving
their dead and losses behind, according to what was reported by the "September
Net" website. The clashes resulted in the death of 12 members of the Houthi
militia and the injury of others, while the rest of the elements fled under the
fire of the Yemeni Armed Forces. In the same context, the warplanes of the
Yemeni Armed Forces targeted gatherings and vehicles belonging to the Houthi
militia in the Umm Rish camp and Aqabat Malaa, south of Marib Governorate, and
inflicted heavy human and material losses on them.
AFP: Experts from the Revolutionary Guard visited Bab al-Mandab
to install radars... Experts supervised tunnel digging works in the mountain
hills overlooking the area
Riyadh: Agencies/September 19, 2026 (Translated from Arabic by the AI)
Agence France-Presse quoted two military sources affiliated with the Houthis as
saying today, Saturday, that experts from the Iranian Revolutionary Guard
visited the Bab al-Mandab area to study the installation of radars near it and
to supervise tunnel digging works in the mountain hills overlooking it. The two
sources said that the Iranian experts who work with the Houthis visited the Bab
al-Mandab area and the port and airport of Mocha and the Jabal al-Nar camp east
of Mocha. They added that the experts supervised tunnel digging works in the
mountain hills overlooking Mocha and Bab al-Mandab and discussed the process of
installing radars near Mocha and inside Zuqar Island in the southern Red Sea.
The two sources indicated that the experts came from Hodeidah and made separate
visits between Thursday and Friday. In the same context, Yemeni government
sources told Agence France-Presse on Saturday that fighting intensified between
the Houthis and government forces around the Kahboub mountain area overlooking
the Bab al-Mandab area. The conflict in Yemen has witnessed a sharp escalation
since July, against the backdrop of the war in the Middle East between Iran and
the United States.
Bahrain strongly condemns escalation of Houthi terrorist
attacks on civilians in Saudi Arabia... Renews its call for the Security Council
to assume its responsibilities
Riyadh: Al Arabiya.net and agencies/September 19, 2026 (Translated from Arabic
by the AI)
The Bahraini Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed on Sunday Manama's
condemnation and strong denunciation of the escalation of terrorist attacks
carried out by the Iranian-backed terrorist Houthi militia against the Kingdom
of Saudi Arabia, and its continued repeated and deliberate attempts to target
civilians and civilian objects in the capital Riyadh, and the cities of Baish,
Taif, Farasan, and Yanbu, considering it a flagrant violation of the rules of
international law and international humanitarian law and the United Nations
Charter and relevant Security Council resolutions. The Ministry affirmed in a
statement published by the official Bahrain News Agency, the Kingdom of
Bahrain's full solidarity with the sisterly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and its
full support for all measures it takes to preserve its sovereignty, security,
stability, and protection of its citizens and residents on its territory, in
accordance with Article (51) of the United Nations Charter, emphasizing that its
security and stability is an integral part of the national security of the
Kingdom of Bahrain, praising the efficiency of the Royal Saudi Air Defense
Forces and their high readiness in confronting these terrorist attacks and
thwarting them, and their success in intercepting and destroying a ballistic
missile launched by the Houthi militia towards the city of Riyadh. The Ministry
of Foreign Affairs renewed the Kingdom of Bahrain's call for the Security
Council to assume its responsibilities and take a firm stance to stop the
repeated Houthi terrorist attacks targeting civilians and civilian objects in
the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, hold their perpetrators accountable, and implement
its relevant resolutions, foremost of which is Resolution No. (2216).
US State Department to Al Arabiya: We stand firmly with
Saudi Arabia against Houthi terrorism... "We are holding close consultations
with our Saudi partners and remain committed to their security"
Riyadh: Al Arabiya.net/September 19, 2026 (Translated from Arabic
by the AI)
A US State Department spokesman said on Sunday to Al Arabiya and Al Hadath that
"The United States of America stands firmly with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
against Houthi terrorism." The spokesman confirmed that his country is holding
"close consultations with our Saudi partners and we remain committed to their
security." The spokesman for the "Coalition to Support Legitimacy in Yemen"
forces had announced today, Saturday, the success of the Saudi air defense
forces at dawn on Saturday in intercepting and destroying a ballistic missile
launched by the terrorist Houthi militia towards the city of Riyadh. The
spokesman, Major General Turki Al-Maliki, explained in a statement published on
the X platform: "The escalation by the terrorist Houthi militia and its
continued attempts to target civilians and civilian objects in Riyadh confirms
the intransigence of this militia and its persistence in targeting civilians and
civilian objects in a systematic manner in a terrorist and hostile behavior."
Major General Al-Maliki stressed the inherent right of the Coalition leadership
to take whatever it deems appropriate and in accordance with international
humanitarian law and its customary rules to deter the behavior of the terrorist
Houthi militia.
Syrian security arrests one of the leaders of the
Republican Guard affiliated with the Assad regime, former Major General Ahmed
Mohamed Ismail
Riyadh: Al Arabiya.net and agencies/September 19, 2026 (Translated from Arabic
by the AI)
The Syrian Internal Security Forces arrested former Major General Ahmed Mohamed
Ismail, one of the top leaders in the Republican Guard during the rule of the
Assad regime. The Internal Security Forces explained via its channel on Telegram
on Saturday, that the military records of the aforementioned indicate his
progression through several leadership tasks, noting that he began his work as a
platoon commander, then as a company commander in the Second Battalion
affiliated with the 101st Airborne Regiment, before being promoted at the
beginning of 2016 to head of operations of the same regiment, and his direct
participation in leading military attacks on the cities of Aleppo, Daraa, and
Eastern Ghouta, according to what was reported by the Syrian News Agency.
The Internal Security Forces indicated the progression of the detainee in senior
positions where he assumed the position of Chief of Staff of the Republican
Guard for six months, then was appointed Deputy Commander of the 14th Division
specialized in airborne operations for a year, to become after that the
commander of the same division, and remained at the head of his work until the
liberation of Syria. It confirmed that the competent authorities continue their
investigations with the arrested person to complete the necessary legal and
judicial procedures against him. The Internal Security Forces in Latakia
Governorate, in cooperation with the Counter-Terrorism Branch, had announced on
September 9th of this month, the arrest of 9 pilots involved in committing war
crimes against the Syrian people through bombing and targeting operations that
resulted in the fall of large numbers of dead and wounded, and caused severe
damage to cities and towns, in addition to displacing residents and destroying
homes and civil facilities and installations.
Turkish minister acknowledges difficulty of achieving
rapprochement between Ukraine and Russia regarding the Black Sea... "Our top
priority is to facilitate the transport of grain from the Black Sea"
AFP September 19, 2026 (Translated from Arabic by the AI)
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan acknowledged during a televised interview
on Saturday the difficulty of achieving a rapprochement between the positions of
Ukraine and Russia with the aim of putting an end to attacks targeting
commercial ships in the Black Sea. Fidan said in statements to NTV channel, "We
presented a proposal to both parties in this regard (...) and we received
responses from them (...) and we notice that both have demands and positions
that are difficult to reconcile." He stressed that "Our top priority is to
facilitate the transport of grain from the Black Sea. The whole world needs it.
And grain is among the products that both countries sell, but some obstacles
must be overcome." In light of attacks targeting ships in the Black Sea, Turkey
presented a draft agreement to end attacks on commercial ships, including those
belonging to it, according to what a Turkish diplomatic source told Agence
France-Presse on Thursday. Since the beginning of the Russian invasion of
Ukraine in 2022, about 25 ships belonging to Turkish companies have been
attacked, according to the Turkish Maritime Chamber of Commerce. Russian Foreign
Minister Sergei Lavrov considered at the time that it is "impossible to
supervise" such a procedure. Several ships were attacked by drones from Ukraine,
which seeks to disrupt the transport of grain and fuels for Russia's account.
The Latest LCCC analysis &
editorials from miscellaneous sources published
on September 19-20/2026
Shiites in Lebanon
Colonel Charbel Barakat/September 19/2026
https://eliasbejjaninews.com/2026/09/157632/
Shiites in Lebanon are concentrated in two main regions: the Beqaa Valley and
the South (historically known as Jabal Amel). Like the Druze areas in Chouf, the
Maronite areas in the rest of Mount Lebanon, and the Melkite Christian areas
particularly in Koura, these regions are distinct from the major coastal
cities—such as Tripoli, Beirut, Sidon, and parts of Koura—which have been
predominantly inhabited by Sunnis, especially since the era of Ottoman rule.
The diversity and distinctiveness of the inhabitants in these regions stem from
their history, both in terms of when they settled there and how successive
ruling authorities interacted with them, particularly during the final 400-year
period under Ottoman rule.
The Maronites of Mount Lebanon transitioned from ancient pagan religions to
Christianity through the disciples of St. Maron around the 5th century AD. Their
church was organized under bishops subordinate to the Patriarchate of Antioch,
which was founded by St. Peter himself. The Maronites adhered to the decrees of
the Council of Chalcedon and maintained their relationship with the Patriarchate
of Rome (the second patriarchate founded by St. Peter).
Together with other local groups, the Maronites formed defense units known as
the “Local Lebanese Cavalry,” tasked with guarding mountain passes and
protecting coastal cities from periodic raids by Bedouins coming from the
eastern deserts. During major invasions, they could request assistance from the
Roman army stationed in Homs. The raid of Mavia the Tanukhids in 378 AD (during
the reign of Emperor Valens)—triggered by the Orthodox Tanukhids’ refusal of an
Arian bishop appointed over the Levant—illustrates the Byzantine defensive
organization and the role played by each group at the time.
The Druze were also local inhabitants who, in one way or another, operated
within the Roman organizational framework of the Lebanese Cavalry units. During
the Abbasid era, they were influenced by the arrival of the Tanukhids, who had
Islam imposed upon them and were subsequently relocated to Lebanon to sever
their connections with Constantinople (after having fought alongside Byzantine
forces to prevent the Goths from capturing the imperial capital). They
maintained their faith throughout the Umayyad period and contributed to the
defense of the Levant. However, the third Abbasid Caliph, Muhammad al-Mahdi, did
not accept their adherence to their faith and offered them a choice between
converting to Islam or paying the jizya tax, driven by doctrinal differences and
lingering suspicions regarding their past loyalty to the Umayyads.
Around 780 AD, these populations were resettled along the Lebanese coast to
demonstrate loyalty to the Abbasid State in an area where caliphate armies did
not hold complete control. As a result, their integration and acceptance among
the local population proved relatively smooth, which helps explain their later
receptivity to the Unitarian (Tawhid) call during the late Fatimid era.
Caliph al-Mahdi adopted a strategy of divide-and-rule among other Arab tribes
that had supported the Umayyads and reluctantly accepted Abbasid rule. He
exploited divisions between the Qaysi and Yamani factions. The Qaysites (a
northern Adnanite/Mudari tribal group) formed
the backbone of Umayyad military strength and viewed the Abbasids with enduring
suspicion. Conversely, the Yamanis (such as the southern Qahtanite Hamdan tribe)
leaned toward the Al al-Bayt (the Family of the Prophet), despite their previous
support for the Umayyads. In organizing the military bureau (Diwan al-Jund), al-Mahdi
relied primarily on the people of Khorasan (present-day Iran, Afghanistan, and
Turkmenistan), who had been mobilized under the Black Banners by Abu Muslim al-Khorasani
to overthrow the Umayyad Dynasty.
With the formalization of the military bureau, fighters were registered in a
strict hierarchy: the Khurasanis took top priority, followed by Arab tribes
organized by their military districts (Jund al-Sham, Jund al-Kufa, Jund
al-Basra, etc.), and finally the non-Arab converts (Mawali) and new Muslims.
Financial compensation was divided into three categories: Al-Ata’ (a regular
monthly or annual salary for standing troops), Al-Arzaq (provisions and rations
allocated to soldiers and their families), and Al-Jawa’iz/Al-Mukafa’at (bonuses
awarded by decree of the Caliph following battle victories). A strict inspection
system was established to discharge any volunteer who failed to maintain combat
readiness. Consequently, tribes were no longer treated as autonomous allies
receiving subsidies solely for allegiance; instead, individuals had to enlist in
the formal military structure to earn wages or participate in seasonal campaigns
(Sawa’if) to secure bonuses.
These financial and structural shifts forced tribes that had long depended on
Umayyad state stipends in exchange for defense to seek alternative livelihoods.
Sub-tribes from both Qays and Hamdan moved toward lands suitable for agriculture
and pastoralism, settling in the Beqaa Valley where water and pasture were
plentiful and the local population was sparse. Because the region lay far from
frontier borders and active battle zones, these settlers gradually adapted—much
like other communities across Lebanon—to living alongside groups of differing
religious or ethnic backgrounds, moving away from warfare as their primary means
of sustenance.
In the South, the population consisted of early converts to Christianity who had
embraced the faith when the Apostles sought refuge in “Galilee of the Nations”
during periods of persecution—earning the region the name “Belad al-Bushra”
(Land of the Good News). Tyre hosted one of the largest cathedrals and served as
a venue for early church councils. Like surrounding regions, it experienced
successive theological schisms and doctrines, leading up to the advent of Islam,
which was initially perceived by locals as another Judeo-Christian reform
movement engaging with prevailing doctrines.
Southern inhabitants maintained local military organizations, such as the
Lebanese Cavalry, to protect Tyre and Sidon from desert raids and to secure
mountain passes leading inland. When communication with the Byzantine military
was cut following the fall of Damascus, the local population continued to defend
their territories while maintaining ties with southern tribes in Jordan. This
environment facilitated their reception of Abu Dharr al-Ghifari when he was
exiled to the Levant by Caliph Uthman due to his conflicts with Mu’awiya. Abu
Dharr found acquaintances among locals who frequented the trade caravans
traveling south from Tyre. The locals welcomed him, embraced his egalitarian
teachings, and learned about the elevated status of Ali ibn Abi Talib and the Al
al-Bayt, which resonated with their resistance to direct Umayyad dominance.
A major turning point occurred with the arrival of the Fatimids, who entered
Egypt and expanded into Lebanon and Syria around 970 AD. The subsequent
conflicts in Damascus often took on sectarian dimensions (such as the Qarmatian
uprisings), which highlighted the sectarian distinctions between the inhabitants
of southern Lebanon and Syria. Although the Hamdanid Dynasty in northern Syria
was Shiite, its clashes with the Fatimids (who eventually seized Aleppo)
demonstrated that political rivalry consistently superseded shared religious
affiliation.
Historical records show little evidence of local sectarian zealotry during these
conflicts; residents viewed the fighting primarily as a struggle for political
power that affected them mainly through tax levies. This relative stability
persisted during the Crusades, as Western powers established control across the
region—from the County of Edessa and the Principality of Antioch down to the
County of Tripoli and the Kingdom of Jerusalem. Because the Crusader
administration did not impose excessive taxes or heavy burdens on the indigenous
populace, the locals accepted the status quo and coexisted with the new
authorities.
This equilibrium lasted until the fall of the Fatimid Caliphate at the hands of
Asad al-Din Shirkuh and his nephew Saladin (Salah al-Din al-Ayyubi), who
restored the Friday sermon in the name of the Abbasid Caliph. Following
Saladin’s campaigns against the Franks, Crusader strongholds remained along
coastal cities and regions extending into Safad and Southern Lebanon, until the
Mamluks overthrew their Ayyubid masters. The Mamluks initiated aggressive
military campaigns to enforce total submission, which included depopulating
entire districts as punishment for alleged collaboration with the Franks and
implementing strict religious policies backed by rigorous edicts (such as those
of Ibn Taymiyyah).
Mamluk campaigns—such as Sultan Baibars’ assault on Safad and Jabal Amel—resulted
in the destruction of fortresses and towns, along with a ban on settlement
within 40 kilometers of the coastline, effectively displacing Shiite, Christian,
and Druze communities alike. In Jubbet Bsharri, a campaign was launched against
the Maronites under Sultan Qalawun in 1283 AD; however, the Maronites mounted
counter-offensives that inflicted severe losses on Mamluk forces, halting
further advances into Bsharri, Batroun, and Byblos (Jbeil). Conversely, the
Keserwan region was subjected to devastating campaigns that cleared its
population; Maronite refugees fled toward Byblos, Shiites fled toward Baalbek,
and the mountain Druze migrated toward Rashaya, the Golan, and Mount Hauran
(Bashan).
Following the conclusion of these Mamluk campaigns and the restoration of order
(which also saw clashes with Mongol invaders), displaced populations gradually
returned to their ancestral lands, particularly in Jabal Amel, initially
adopting temporary dwellings and pastoral livelihoods. In response to
persecution and hostile religious decrees, an intellectual movement emerged
dedicated to preserving religious literature, legal heritage, and manuscripts.
During this period, scholar Muhammad ibn Makki al-Amili (known as Al-Shahid al-Awwal
/ The First Martyr) authored his seminal legal work, “Al-Lum’ah al-Damashqiyya,”
prior to his execution in Damascus in 1385 AD. Additionally, several Iraqi
families settled in Jabal Amel, viewing its rugged terrain as a safe haven from
state surveillance.
Toward the end of this era, Shah Ismail I established Twelver Shi’ism as the
official state religion of Safavid Persia, drawing heavily upon the theological
and jurisprudence heritage
preserved by the scholars of Jabal Amel. This prompted a migration of several
Lebanese scholars to Iran. However, following the defeat of the Safavids by
Ottoman Sultan Selim I at the Battle of Chaldiran (1514 AD), Safavid influence
in the Levant waned, and the local Shiite population returned to practicing
Taqiyya (religious dissimulation for self-preservation).
Over the subsequent decades, families claiming lineage from the Al al-Bayt
migrated to and settled in Jabal Amel, playing a central role in preserving the
sect’s identity and cultural distinctiveness. Supported by Lebanon’s rugged
geography and a diverse societal structure that afforded a degree of religious
freedom, the Shiite community successfully preserved its heritage and continuity
throughout four centuries of Ottoman rule.
President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu: Trying to Prevent the Takeover of
Western Civilization
Dr.Majid Rafizadeh/Gatestone Institute/September 19, 2026
https://www.gatestoneinstitute.org/22866/prevent-takeover-of-western-civilization
What Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald J. Trump
have been doing is not just battling terrorist groups; they have been preventing
these groups from achieving their main goal: taking over Western civilization.
The core ideology of groups such as Hezbollah, Hamas and the Houthis -- like the
Iranian regime -- is not influence, trade or partnerships; it is ideological
dominance. Their efforts actually center on trying to destroy all non-Muslims,
as well as other Muslims that each group considers not Muslim enough.
Doctrinally, every Muslim is committed to killing polytheists (such as Hindus)
and to domination over "infidels" such as Christians and Jews -- as well as the
to the broader project of imposing their vision over the inferior, secular West
with its man-made laws (in contrast to Islam's divine, Allah-made sharia law).
Democratic institutions are an abomination to Islamists.
Trump's approach — combining maximum pressure sanctions, diplomatic isolation of
Tehran, and open support for Israel's right to defend itself — has sought to
deny Iran's regime the resources and international legitimacy it needs to
sustain its proxy network to curtail their ability to project power and ideology
across the Middle East and into North America, Latin America and Europe.
If there is no serious resistance, the same gradual process that transformed
Iran into a hell for its people and hollowed out Lebanese sovereignty can take
root in Western democracies. Demographic change, parallel legal systems,
political entryism, and the systematic intimidation of critics create the
conditions for a determined, incremental takeover. Even demographically, such a
transformation becomes impossible to reverse.
The fight that Trump and Netanyahu are presently conducting is not intended only
to neutralize terrorist organizations. It is trying to prevent Western
civilization, democracy, and freedom from falling under the control of an
extremist ideology that openly seeks their replacement.
The least that European and other Western countries can do is to support these
efforts — militarily, financially and diplomatically — by refusing to disparage
those countries courageously fighting to preserve their freedoms, won at the
cost of so many lives, and by refusing to legitimize terror groups such as
Hezbollah, Hamas and the Houthis, as well as the regime in Iran whose
constitution and leaders have committed it to a global struggle until their
vision prevails.
The core ideology of groups such as Hezbollah, Hamas and the Houthis -- like the
Iranian regime -- is not influence, trade or partnerships; it is ideological
dominance. Their efforts actually center on trying to destroy all non-Muslims,
as well as other Muslims that each group considers not Muslim enough.
Doctrinally, every Muslim is committed to killing polytheists (such as Hindus)
and to domination over "infidels" such as Christians and Jews -- as well as the
to the broader project of imposing their vision over the inferior, secular West
with its man-made laws (in contrast to Islam's divine, Allah-made sharia law).
Democratic institutions are an abomination to Islamists.
The Iranian Constitution itself enshrines this hegemonic ambition. Its preamble
declares that the document "provides the necessary basis for ensuring the
continuation of the Revolution at home and abroad." It further commits the
Islamic Republic of Iran to work with other Islamic and popular movements "to
prepare the way for the formation of a single world community" in accordance
with the Qur'anic verse describing believers as one community under one god:
Allah. The same constitution assigns Iran's army and the Islamic Revolutionary
Guard Corps not only to the defense of Iran's borders but also to "the
ideological mission of jihad [war to advance the cause of Islam] in God's way
of; that is, extending the sovereignty of God's law throughout the world."
Exporting the revolution is not an optional foreign-policy preference for Iran's
rulers; it is an obligation.
The late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, founder of the Islamic
Republic of Iran, stated,"We shall export our revolution to the whole world.
Until the cry 'There is no god but Allah' resounds over the whole world, there
will be struggle." That formulation leaves little room for coexistence with
secular, liberal, or non-Islamic systems. The goal is not influence, trade or
partnerships; it is ideological dominance.
This project has already produced concrete results beyond the Middle East.
Iranian-backed networks, such as Hezbollah, have established financial,
logistical, and operational footholds across Latin America. The Tri-Border Area
of Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay has long served as a hub for money
laundering, counterfeiting, and fundraising that supplements Iranian patronage
and spreads Islam among the people whose lives they promise to benefit. In
Venezuela, successive regimes issued passports to individuals linked to
Hezbollah, hosted training facilities, and deepened state-to-state cooperation
with Iran. Reports in recent years have noted the relocation of hundreds of
Hezbollah operatives and their families into South American countries, including
Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Venezuela.
Parallel activities — document fraud, collaboration with drug cartels, and the
use of diplomatic cover — extend the reach of these networks toward the southern
approaches of the United States. Cultural centers, media outlets, and
educational programs have also sought to cultivate sympathetic audiences.
The method, which is gradual and multi-layered, begins with social and
charitable work that builds local legitimacy; proceeds through cultural and
religious institutions that shape narratives, and eventually produces political
actors who enter state bureaucracies, legislatures and governments. Once inside,
they can craft legislation, priorities for law enforcement and foreign policy
goals. The Iranian revolution itself followed a comparable trajectory: years of
ideological groundwork, infiltration of institutions, and then a sudden
consolidation of power that few outside observers fully anticipated until it was
complete. Similar patterns have been visible in Lebanon, where Hezbollah evolved
from a militia into a dominant political and military force that holds veto
power over the state.
Israel's military campaigns against Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and
Iranian military and regime assets are not merely counter-terrorism operations.
They degrade the military and financial capacity of regimes whose goal is the
destruction of Israel and the erosion of the societies that they control or that
host them.
Trump's approach — combining maximum pressure sanctions, diplomatic isolation of
Tehran, and open support for Israel's right to defend itself — has sought to
deny Iran's regime the resources and international legitimacy it needs to
sustain its proxy network to curtail their ability to project power and ideology
across the Middle East and into North America, Latin America and Europe.
If there is no serious resistance, the same gradual process that transformed
Iran into a hell for its people and hollowed out Lebanese sovereignty can take
root in Western democracies. Demographic change, parallel legal systems,
political entryism, and the systematic intimidation of critics create the
conditions for a determined, incremental takeover. Even demographically, such a
transformation becomes impossible to reverse.
The fight that Trump and Netanyahu are presently conducting is not intended only
to neutralize terrorist organizations. It is trying to prevent Western
civilization, democracy, and freedom from falling under the control of an
extremist ideology that openly seeks their replacement.
The least that European and other Western countries can do is to support these
efforts — militarily, financially and diplomatically — by refusing to disparage
those countries courageously fighting to preserve their freedoms, won at the
cost of so many lives, and by refusing to legitimize terror groups such as
Hezbollah, Hamas and the Houthis, as well as the regime in Iran whose
constitution and leaders have committed it to a global struggle until their
vision prevails.
**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.
Jean Aziz and the Master of the Palace’s Game
Colonel Charbel Barakat/September 20/2026
We wanted to believe that President Joseph Aoun was different from his
predecessor, and that upon reaching the presidency, he had forgotten the
chapters of his command of the army under the shadow of the Iranian armed party.
We hoped he had moved past his subjugation—like the rest of the officers—to
accepting what was imposed on them by the forces of the dual Syrian-Iranian
occupation, which became masked following the Syrian withdrawal under
international pressure. Immediately after his election, in his oath of office,
he told us what we wanted to hear: the restoration of the state’s most
fundamental powers—namely, the monopoly on arms and the decisions of war and
peace. He misled us into believing he was serious about his proposal. Indeed, he
even deceived His Holiness Pope Leo XIV during his visit to Lebanon with his
innocent appearance and devout religious practice—despite failing to act as a
broad-minded president on the day he excluded the head of the Lebanese Forces
party from the reception. Then he misled us further by claiming to be a son of
Al Aychiye, a village that understands the meaning of martyrdom and massacres—he
who was carried as a child on the shoulders of a man from Al-Qlaiaa when his
family fled to escape the fallout of the "deadly brotherhood" on that dreadful
day. That day was orchestrated by the Syrians to teach a lesson to anyone who
might hope that their Israeli neighbor could protect them should the forces of
evil decide to use them to intimidate the rest. They carried out the attack that
day using Arafat’s group and the remnants of the Arab Army, just one day before
the Arab Summit that decided to adopt them as a deterrent force responsible for
enforcing security and stability across Lebanon.
President Aoun has been trying to outsmart the Americans, the Israelis, and the
rest of the world—including the Arabs—since taking power. He began his tenure by
appointing a cluster of advisors who, to say the least, are remnants of the
Iranian era. They control every statement issued by the palace to defuse any
government decision that challenges the party’s control or targets its weapons.
To this day, he has not decided how to fulfill his pledge to disarm forces
operating outside state authority; instead, he frightens the Lebanese with the
specter of civil war—the party's ultimate weapon to intimidate anyone who dares
to object.
President Aoun could have genuinely contributed to Lebanon’s salvation, given
that Israel explicitly states—through all its officials, led by Prime Minister
Netanyahu—its desire to negotiate with Lebanon to reach a complete,
comprehensive, and unambiguous agreement. Israel has expressed no territorial
ambitions or desire to impose conditions, seeking only the mutual preservation
of security and cooperation to create better opportunities for citizens on both
sides of the border to live in the peace they deserve after so many irrelevant
wars.
President Aoun—who knows full well how wars are fought around him and
appreciates the fragile state of the Iranian faction as it loses more power by
the day, and who also knows that Lebanon must reach an understanding with its
Arab neighbors, the only ones who can help rebuild what the Iranians
destroyed—remains hesitant. When he sees the scales tipping toward the United
States and its use of overwhelming force, he tries to align himself with them.
But the moment any slackening occurs, he fears retaliation from the Iranian
party, retreats, and begins playing games again, giving his advisors free rein
to pump out analyses aimed at pleasing a decaying party that has suffered blow
after blow.
Today, presidential advisor Mr. Aziz wrote an article for an American media
outlet close to the Democratic opposition on the eve of the midterm elections,
analyzing the President’s vacillating stance. He coordinated his points with the
Iranian party’s media machine, which rushed to criticize the article so the
Lebanese public would find the argument more convincing. But this argument is
fundamentally rejected: he wants Israel to withdraw from all of Lebanon, return
residents to their homes, and begin the reconstruction process before he and his
President even decide how they will collect the weapons the entire world is
asking them to collect and dismantle all the apparatuses operating around them.
Not only that, but in principle, he ought to dissolve the so-called "Hezbollah,"
ban any of its members from issuing statements, and expel those claiming to be
its MPs and ministers, given that it is an element of destruction that dragged
the country and its people into a horrific massacre, and dragged the region and
the world into a major crisis whose scale and Lebanon's impact within it have
yet to be fully grasped.
Instead of putting an end to the attacks by the so-called Military Court and its
arbitrary rulings against citizens' free speech—especially those living in the
United States, where freedom of expression is sacred—President Aoun allows it to
intimidate anyone who openly opposes the party and to prosecute anyone who dares
to criticize, whether they live in Lebanon or abroad. How can anyone hope for a
future under such leadership?
The reckless actions taken by the President, which will strip Lebanon of all
global support and deny it any future assistance, constitute a mortal sin
committed by the man sitting on the throne in Baabda, surrounded by agents and
informants, oblivious to whether water or bombs and missiles are flowing beneath
him. Will his era end before it even begins? Will he and his army commander be
placed under house arrest to save Lebanon from all these evils? Or will what
comes next be even worse, leaving nothing of the Lebanon we dreamed of—the
Lebanon that was supposed to protect its minorities, secure their future and
balance, and teach them to deal honestly with others, thereby preventing
retaliation from surrounding majorities and dampening deadly hatreds? Instead,
we find ourselves fostering deeper hatred and destroying the foundations of
peace and cooperation among neighbors—lessons we learned when we lived in the
same villages and cities, trying to understand each other's fears and listening
to the voice of conscience that forbids evil, the sowing of hatred, and their
consequences.
The Iranian occupier knows exactly what it is doing and does not care about the
fate of the Lebanese, whether Shiite or Sunni. Just as it gambles with the fate
of the Iranian people, it will not take into account the concerns of Joseph Aoun
or Nawaf Salam regarding civil peace. The day it feels capable of turning the
tables, it will do so without sparing a president, an ally, or the fate of the
country and the future of its people. From here, we say to the man at the top of
the pyramid that power carries requirements, chief among them firmness and
clarity, so that the people—and allies alike—know what is expected of them,
rather than leaving everyone lost in a maze of maneuvers, leaks, and
appeasements that yield no benefit. If President Trump has been patient with you
out of respect for the many Lebanese-Americans and his affection for this
country, do not expect him to maintain this approach forever. Let us capitalize
on opportunities before they slip away, build bridges of understanding and
cooperation with our neighbors, and put an end to hatred and its causes once and
for all.
Question: What is sanctification? What is the definition of Christian
sanctification?
GotQuestions.org/September 19/2026
Answer: Sanctification is God’s will for us (1 Thessalonians 4:3). The word
sanctification is related to the word saint; both words have to do with
holiness. To “sanctify” something is to set it apart for special use; to
“sanctify” a person is to make him holy.
Jesus had a lot to say about sanctification in John 17. In verse 16 the Lord
says, “They are not of the world, even as I am not of it,” and this is before
His request: “Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth” (verse 17). In
Christian theology, sanctification is a state of separation unto God; all
believers enter into this state when they are born of God: “You are in Christ
Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and
redemption” (1 Corinthians 1:30, ESV). The sanctification mentioned in this
verse is a once-for-ever separation of believers unto God. It is a work God
performs, an integral part of our salvation and our connection with Christ
(Hebrews 10:10). Theologians sometimes refer to this state of holiness before
God as “positional” sanctification; it is related to justification.
While we are positionally holy (“set free from every sin” by the blood of
Christ, Acts 13:39), we know that we still sin (1 John 1:10). That’s why the
Bible also refers to sanctification as a practical experience of our separation
unto God. “Progressive” or “experiential” sanctification, as it is sometimes
called, is the effect of obedience to the Word of God in one’s life. It is the
same as growing in the Lord (2 Peter 3:18) or spiritual maturity. God started
the work of making us like Christ, and He is continuing it (Philippians 1:6).
This type of sanctification is to be pursued by the believer earnestly (1 Peter
1:15; Hebrews 12:14) and is effected by the application of the Word (John
17:17). Progressive sanctification has in view the setting apart of believers
for the purpose for which they are sent into the world: “As you sent me into the
world, I have sent them into the world. For them I sanctify myself, that they
too may be truly sanctified” (John 17:18–19).That Jesus set Himself apart for
God’s purpose is both the basis and the condition of our being set apart (see
John 10:36). We are sanctified and sent because Jesus was. Our Lord’s
sanctification is the pattern of and power for our own. The sending and the
sanctifying are inseparable. On this account we are called “saints” (hagioi in
the Greek), or “sanctified ones.” Prior to salvation, our behavior bore witness
to our standing in the world in separation from God, but now our behavior should
bear witness to our standing before God in separation from the world. Little by
little, every day, “those who are being sanctified” (Hebrews 10:14, ESV) are
becoming more like Christ.There is a third sense in which the word
sanctification is used in Scripture—a “complete” or “ultimate” sanctification.
This is the same as glorification. Paul prays in 1 Thessalonians 5:23, “May the
God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul
and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ” (ESV). Paul
speaks of Christ as “the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27) and links the glorious
appearing of Christ to our personal glorification: “When Christ, who is your
life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory” (Colossians 3:4).
This glorified state will be our ultimate separation from sin, a total
sanctification in every regard. “We know that when Christ appears, we shall be
like him, for we shall see him as he is” (1 John 3:2).
To summarize, “sanctification” is a translation of the Greek word hagiasmos,
meaning “holiness” or “a separation.” In the past, God granted us positional
sanctification, a once-for-all, positional holiness in Christ. In the present,
God guides us through progressive sanctification, a practical, day-by-day,
increasing holiness. In the future, God will give us glorification (ultimate
sanctification), a permanent, ultimate holiness. These three phases of
sanctification separate the believer from the penalty of sin, the power of sin,
and the presence of sin.
From Muscat to Salalah... The Problem Lies in Tehran!
Mohammed Al-Rumaihi/Al-Ayyam/September 19, 2026 (Translated
from Arabic by the AI)
The Sultanate of Oman called for a meeting of foreign ministers from the Gulf
Cooperation Council (GCC) states, Iraq, and Iran, scheduled to take place in
Salalah on Monday, September 14. About forty-eight hours prior, Bahrain
announced it would not attend and explained the reasons for its stance. Then,
just hours before the appointed time, Oman announced the meeting’s postponement.
In my assessment, this postponement is tantamount to cancellation, as the very
idea was unrealistic under current circumstances. The announcement of the
invitation brought to mind the Muscat meeting of November 1975. At that time,
the Gulf states, Iraq, and the Shah’s Iran convened—again, with the aim of
seeking a regional security framework. That meeting failed because Tehran sought
to be a hegemon rather than a partner. It wanted to exclude other powers from
the security equation so it could emerge as the dominant force, dictating the
limits of movement for others. More than half a century later, the regime in
Iran has changed, yet one crucial element remains unaltered: its perspective on
its neighbors. The irony is that the very Iran speaking of "shared security" is
the same Iran that, over decades, cultivated military and political instruments
of influence in several Arab nations—tools it has deployed when necessary to
pressure its neighbors. Therefore, a mere call for dialogue is insufficient.
What is required first is for the invitees to know: with *which* Iran will they
be engaging in dialogue? This question has become increasingly critical today.
Iran is no longer the Iran of Khomeini, nor even the Iran of Ali Khamenei. In
the past, there was a clearly defined apex to the power structure; one might
disagree with it, yet one knew where decisions originated and who held the final
say. Today, the landscape has changed. Following the death of Ali Khamenei last
February and the rise of Mojtaba Khamenei, the Iranian regime entered a new
phase. The new Supreme Leader is virtually absent from the public sphere, while
the influence of the Revolutionary Guard has expanded; meanwhile, the
government—led by Masoud Pezeshkian—struggles to manage a beleaguered economy,
an anxious society, and highly complex foreign relations. We are now faced with
a multi-headed Iran: the Supreme Leader and his office; the Revolutionary Guard
with its interests and institutions; the Parliament and its hardline factions;
and the President and his government. Each party has its own calculations, and
it is by no means certain that a commitment made by one binds the others. This
lies at the heart of the problem facing any regional conference. Let us assume
the Salalah meeting takes place and ministers reach understandings regarding
non-interference, respect for state sovereignty, the cessation of hostilities,
and confidence-building. Who can guarantee their implementation? Can the Iranian
Foreign Minister make pledges on behalf of the Revolutionary Guard? Can the
government prevent a military or security entity from taking a decision that
contradicts what was signed? Can President Pezeshkian offer his neighbors a
guarantee that what he says today will not be undone by another power tomorrow?
These are not merely theoretical questions; they constitute the core of the
problem. Diplomacy requires a party capable of both making and implementing
decisions. A multiplicity of power centers, however, means that an agreement
with one entity may simply trigger a new problem with another. That is why I was
not surprised by the postponement of the Salalah meeting. Indeed, it may be
better for the meeting not to take place at all than for it to conclude with a
group photo and a polished statement, only for everyone to return to square one.
From Muscat in 1975 to Salalah in 2026, much has changed in the region. The Gulf
states have changed, Iraq has changed, and the world has changed. Iran, however,
continues to seek the role of hegemon rather than that of a partner. The
situation has become even more complex today: we no longer know which figure in
Tehran holds the final say. That is the dilemma.
Sanctions Go Beyond "Economic Pariah" Status as Washington
Blocks Iran’s Political Avenues
Hassan Fahs/Independent Arabia/September 19, 2026 (Translated from
Arabic by the AI)
The US escalation did not stop at backing the Saudi position regarding the
postponement or disruption of the Salalah meeting; it extended to politically
cornering Iran and tightening the screws on it within the International Atomic
Energy Agency (IAEA). This included barring Mohammad Eslami—the Vice President
for Nuclear Energy Affairs—from participating in the agency's meeting. This move
follows the Board of Governors' earlier resolution condemning Iran and accusing
it of a lack of transparent cooperation regarding its nuclear activities—a
development that paved the way for referring the Iranian file back to the UN
Security Council. The US insistence on transforming the "economic pariah"
strategy into a comprehensive approach—extending beyond the imposition of
sweeping, economy-strangling sanctions to actively dismantling the political and
diplomatic channels the Iranian regime might use to leverage its geopolitical
position—has fundamentally altered the landscape. This strategy aims to prevent
Tehran from exploiting its location to impose terms serving its interests
regionally and internationally. Despite the boost in confidence the Iranian
regime derived from developments in Yemen—such as the Houthi group’s seizure of
parts of the Bab al-Mandab coastline and its subsequent attacks on oil
facilities, culminating in the targeting of the East-West Pipeline (an incident
for which pro-Iran factions in Yemen and Iraq have sought to deflect
blame)—rapid political developments and measures taken by Washington and
regional states have made it impossible to address the US-Iran crisis solely
through the lens of economic sanctions or pre-conflict balances of power.
Consequently, the fragile ceasefire and incomplete agreement resulting from the
military confrontation did not deter Washington from activating all levels of
pressure to complete the encirclement of economic sanctions. Just as the Iranian
leadership believed it had successfully imposed its desired terms following
developments in Yemen—hoping to leverage these realities to secure favorable
conditions for a new corridor agreement in the Strait of Hormuz with Oman—a
decision to postpone the Salalah meeting (involving Iran, the GCC states, and
Iraq) at Saudi Arabia's request disrupted Tehran's ambitions. Iran had sought to
dominate the issue of the Strait and use it as leverage in negotiations with
Washington, which is pressuring Iran to fully open the Strait without
conditions.
US escalation went beyond merely backing the Saudi position to postpone or
derail the Salalah meeting; it extended to politically cornering Iran and
tightening the screws within the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). This
included barring Mohammad Eslami, the Vice President for Nuclear Energy, from
participating in the agency's meeting—a move facilitated by the Board of
Governors' prior resolution condemning Iran for a lack of transparent
cooperation regarding its nuclear activities, thereby paving the way for
referring the Iranian file back to the UN Security Council. This political
isolation—following economic isolation—may stem not only from military setbacks
and losses suffered by Iran’s decision-making apparatus and economy but also
from the waning prospects of reviving negotiations on terms that meet minimal US
demands. There is a growing sense within the Iranian leadership that the assets
it leveraged to push Washington toward returning to an agreement—or the
memorandum of understanding signed under Pakistani auspices—have yielded no
results. Consequently, Iran’s options are narrowing, forcing it to seek
alternative methods to circumvent or alleviate Washington's pressure.
Iran Looms Over Trump-Xi Meeting: Is China Taking a Middle
Path—or Distancing Itself from Tehran?
Laura Yammine/Al-Markaziya/September 19, 2026 (Translated from
Arabic by the AI)
Al-Markaziya – One week before a highly anticipated meeting in Washington
between Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump, Chinese
Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi, in
Beijing on Wednesday. Wang conveyed that China urges both Tehran and Washington
to exercise wisdom and restraint, return to the Islamabad Memorandum of
Understanding, and "engage in substantive consultations."
According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, Wang added, "We urge all parties to
take effective measures to reopen the Strait of Hormuz as soon as possible" to
maintain the stability of international energy and supply chains. He stated that
China "does not wish to see regional tensions spread further into Yemen and the
Red Sea." Wang told Araghchi that Tehran and Washington should "rebuild the
negotiation mechanism based on the consensus previously reached." Diplomatic
sources told Al-Markaziya that Tehran is attempting to seek Chinese mediation
with the United States on the eve of Xi’s visit there. However, Beijing no
longer possesses the capacity or the desire to continue supporting Iran unless
the latter halts its escalation—at least regarding the vital straits. This is
because Washington’s sanctions now target anyone cooperating with Iran, meaning
they could eventually extend to China. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent had
stated on Tuesday that Trump and Xi would continue discussions regarding Iran
and the financial relations between China and the Islamic Republic. According to
sources, this presidential summit will determine the economic trajectory of
relations between the two superpowers. China will either inform Trump that it is
working to rein in Iran and halt its support for the country, or it may face
sanctions itself.
For now, the first scenario appears more likely; China seeks to avoid a
confrontation with the United States and instead seems inclined to engage in
regional de-escalation efforts and mediation—whether between Washington and
Tehran, or between Tehran and its allies on one side and the Gulf states on the
other. In this context, Wang stated that "China is ready to promote the
principles of peace, fairness, and justice in the region," even as he affirmed
that its policy toward Iran remains steadfast and stable.
Selected Face Book & X tweets
on September 19/2026
Joe Wilson
I am disappointed that almost a month since President Trump ended
Syria’s designation as a state sponsor of terrorism, @BISGov still has not
removed export controls on Syria. Syria continues to be placed in country list
E, the only country in this group that is not a state sponsor of terrorism,
hurting American companies and jobs which want to invest in Syria.
Hopeful that updated guidance can come out of @BISGov
soon implementing Pres Trump’s vision to give Syria a chance!