Source: Al Arabiya
Security & Justice
Lebanese Court Faces Backlash as Investigation into Lokman Slim’s Killing Hits Dead End
On the eve of the fourth anniversary of the assassination of prominent Lebanese political activist Lokman Slim, a decision issued by the Lebanese judiciary has sparked outrage within his family and supporters. The ruling, handed down by interim investigating judge Bilal Halawi, classified the perpetrators of Slim’s murder as “unknown,” stating that there was insufficient evidence to identify the individuals responsible for the crime.
Sunday, February 2, 2025
Faraya Road Rage Turns Fatal: 20-Year-Old Killed in Cold Blood
A horrifying incident unfolded in the town of Faraya, Keserwan, early on Sunday, claiming the life of 20-year-old Khalil Khalil. The tragedy occurred when Jonathan Chamoun deliberately ran over Khalil following a heated argument over the right of way.
Sunday, February 2, 2025
Opinion
Saudi Arabia’s View of Lebanon’s Political Process
When the then-commander of the Lebanese army, Joseph Aoun, visited Saudi Arabia last December and was received by Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman, it was no ordinary visit. It was an indication that Riyadh had actively resumed a positive role regarding Lebanon’s security and stability — especially given the devastating Israeli war on Gaza and Lebanon. With its political and economic capabilities, Saudi Arabia engaged in diplomatic efforts to stop the war and support the affected Arab countries.
Monday, February 3, 2025
Israeli-Saudi Normalization Is Within Reach. Here’s What Trump and Netanyahu Need to Do Next.
High on the agenda of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House this week is a potential deal to normalize relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia. Trump wants to move fast on it, having dispatched his special envoy, Steve Witkoff, to Riyadh both during the transition and last week.
Sunday, February 2, 2025
Sports
Australia Batter Smith Passes 10,000 Test Runs
Australia batter Steve Smith passed the 10,000-run mark in Test cricket as he scored a century on the first day of his side's opening match in Sri Lanka.
Wednesday, January 29, 2025
Neymar Leaves Al-Hilal by Mutual Agreement
Neymar has parted ways with Al-Hilal by mutual consent, the Saudi Pro League champions said on Monday, after a disappointing spell at the club for Brazil's all-time top scorer.
Tuesday, January 28, 2025
Wednesday 5 February 2025 15:26:46
Senior White House Delegation to Visit Beirut
A senior White House delegation is set to visit Lebanon this week, officials said, as the country’s newly elected leaders look to form a government.
The delegation will be headed by Morgan Ortagus, the deputy special envoy for Middle East peace.
Also expected to accompany Ortagus is Eric Trager, who heads the Middle East desk at the National Security Council.
The US officials are looking to hear about updates on the formation of a new government, officials familiar with their travel plans told Al Arabiya English. Trump administration officials do not want to see Hezbollah or its Shia allies retain control of key ministries, including the coveted finance ministry.
Some Trump administration officials do not want to see Hezbollah represented at all in the government. Officials have also expressed frustration with messages being relayed to Lebanese officials by the US ambassador in Beirut, Lisa Johnson, a career diplomat who was appointed by the Biden administration.
It remains unclear if she will remain in her post. The Trump administration has so far asked the US ambassadors in Saudi Arabia and Jordan to resign their posts.
Al Arabiya English has reached out to the White House for comment.
