Latest news with #KarineKeuchkerian
LBCI
09-06-2025
- Politics
- LBCI
As threats grow on border, Israel questions value of UN peacekeepers in Lebanon
Report by Amal Shehadeh, English adaptation by Karine Keuchkerian Israeli officials have described the international forces operating in southern Lebanon as ineffective, as the Israeli lobby, in coordination with Washington, pushes within the United Nations not to renew the mandate of these forces, according to security officials. According to a security report, Israel's view of the international forces has shifted. It no longer believes their presence in southern Lebanon is preferable to their absence, especially since, in Israel's view, these forces have failed to deter Hezbollah's strength. Reports also note that indirect coordination — conducted through countries allied with Tel Aviv — with the army has proven effective. The actions of the Lebanese army on the ground have become more significant than what the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) can deliver. Israeli officials concluded in internal discussions and security assessments that the combination of security concerns and political interests now leans toward joining the U.S. position, which opposes renewing the mandate — or at least calls for expanding UNIFIL's powers. More importantly, according to a senior security official, current deliberations are focusing on how to restore full freedom of action for Israel to protect its northern border. The official warned that even if UNIFIL's mission is terminated, Israel will not abandon the northern front, and the Israeli military is prepared for any scenario. Through indirect cooperation with the Lebanese army and with intelligence and technological capabilities, Israel will be able to effectively respond to growing threats along the border. This evolving Israeli stance toward both UNIFIL and the Lebanese army raises questions about the credibility of Israel's earlier claims that the Lebanese army was incapable of fulfilling its duties — a position that now appears inconsistent unless Tel Aviv seeks to drive a wedge between the army and Hezbollah supporters in Lebanon.
LBCI
04-06-2025
- Business
- LBCI
From scoop to spike: Why your next tub of ice cream may cost more
Report by Lea Fayad, English adaptation by Karine Keuchkerian If ice cream is your go-to comfort when it's hot or you're stressed, brace yourself—prices could soon "melt" your budget. Supermarket ice cream may soon get more expensive due to a sharp increase in the global price of coconut oil, a key ingredient in many brands. Coconut oil helps ice cream maintain its texture and freeze properly. But the pressure isn't just coming from the dessert aisle. Demand for coconut oil is surging worldwide, fueled by its use in food products, cosmetics like shampoos and creams, and even as a biofuel alternative in some countries. This spike has already impacted the prices of other goods such as coffee and cocoa, which are also viewed as commodities for investment.
LBCI
28-05-2025
- General
- LBCI
Alleged talks with Syria, warnings on Lebanon: Israel walks a strategic 'tightrope'
Report by Amal Shehadeh, English adaptation by Karine Keuchkerian Between near-daily bombings and incursions, the Israeli army's threats to expand its presence deeper into Lebanon, and the relative calm in Syria's interior, it appears Israel, through its security agencies and political consultations, is trying to ensure calm on the Syrian front. Israel considers itself closer to peace with Syria, despite some officials' concerns that certain steps could jeopardize the army's achievements and freedom of operation there. This warning came after the disclosure of direct talks between Syrian and Israeli security and military officials. Some say the talks took place at the border, while others claim they occurred inside Israel. A report further revealed that efforts are focused on accelerating an understanding between the two sides. At the same time the talks were revealed, a military report discussed the Israeli army's deployment in Syria, noting it controls nine military sites from the summit of Mount Hermon through the Hama region to the border triangle with Jordan. However, the report also pointed to the continued presence of weapons caches, specifically in villages known to be affiliated with ISIS. This issue was discussed by Israelis with Syrian figures due to concerns about the impact on the army's safety and border security. The report also warned about the situation regarding Lebanon, particularly Hezbollah's "calm state," noting that if the group decides to retaliate against Tel Aviv, it will not be limited to the five hills it occupies inside Lebanon but will extend into Israel proper. The report said this requires decisive action on this front as well.
LBCI
28-05-2025
- Business
- LBCI
IMF mission in Beirut — will Lebanon seize its 'last chance'?
Report by Lara El Hachem, English adaptation by Karine Keuchkerian A month has passed since the 2025 Spring Meetings of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), in which Lebanon participated in an attempt to bridge the gap with the international community. The IMF mission is arriving in Beirut to follow up on Lebanon's progress, largely unconcerned with the narrow, often paralyzing details of domestic debates shaped by political protections and conflicting interests. What the IMF seeks in order to sign an agreement with Lebanon is assurance that the country can sustainably repay its debts—through accountable institutions and a state capable of attracting investment. So, what progress has Lebanon made in the past month? Since the adoption of the banking secrecy law in the form requested by the IMF, no tangible progress has been made on reforms. The draft law to restructure the banking sector remains stalled in discussions between a parliamentary subcommittee and the central bank governor. Meanwhile, the government is waiting for the central bank to submit the draft financial gap law so it can be reviewed and forwarded to Parliament. As has been the case since the financial crisis began, reform legislation is moving at a slow pace in Parliament. The situation is no better in government, despite its stated awareness that this may be its final opportunity to act. Several weeks ago, Lebanon received a governance and corruption assessment from the IMF, identifying weaknesses in various sectors—including customs, public financial management, the central bank, and others—and offering recommendations on governance and anti-corruption measures in these areas. The Lebanese government is now in the final stages of reviewing the IMF's recommendations and evaluating how they align with the local context through nine specialized teams. The state cannot afford further delay. Lebanon's commitment to these reforms will be a key condition for signing any agreement with the IMF.
LBCI
28-05-2025
- Business
- LBCI
Support on the table, but Lebanon's indecision alarms UAE
Report by Ghida Fayad, English adaptation by Karine Keuchkerian A high-level Emirati delegation visited Lebanon recently, aiming to support development efforts and help the country recover—drawing on the UAE's experience. The visit signaled a renewed offer of cooperation, but the next move now lies with the Lebanese government. Despite a flurry of meetings, plans, and referrals, much of the process remains bogged down in delays and indecision. Sources confirmed to LBCI that the Emirati delegation reported a troubling impression to Abu Dhabi: no shift in mindset, little progress on basic steps, and a glaring disregard for the urgency of time. The required reforms are not insurmountable. But every delay brings real costs. The UAE has reached out. The question now is whether Lebanon will finally respond—or miss yet another opportunity.
