What happened to kidnapped Lebanese soldiers in Arsal?

A Lebanese official told Al-Monitor that the number of Islamic militants in Arsal is steadily declining, and there is talk of the remainder leaving after negotiations.

Lebanon

Is it Eid or not? Muslims take step toward resolving calendar dispute

Religious representatives from Islamic countries agree to embrace a common calendar to overcome a long-standing conflict on the start of Ramadan, but their past record inspires little optimism for a genuine compromise.

Saudi Arabia

Syrian refugees act out their stories in 'The Caravan'

'The Caravan,' a play based on Syrian refugees' testimonies, will begin touring Lebanon in June.

Lebanon

Should Lebanon found national oil company?

Valerie Marcel, an associate fellow at Chatham House who heads the New Petroleum Producers Discussion Group, speaks to Al-Monitor about issues concerning good governance in the oil sector in Lebanon.

Lebanon

Lebanese web shows get Netflix treatment

Despite limited financial resources, the web series genre is growing in popularity in Lebanon, especially among youths.

Lebanon

French oil exec speaks out on prospects of drilling in Lebanon

Elias Kassis, vice president of the Middle East and North Africa division of French oil and gas company Total, says 'there are many factors' companies must consider when deciding whether or not to drill exploratory wells.

Lebanon

What's in store for Lebanon's nascent oil, gas sector?

There is a new twist in the debate about Lebanon's best strategy for developing its offshore oil and gas resources.

Lebanon

Will Russia adopt 'first to strike' policy in Syria?

Bombings in Tartus and Jableh have led Russia to reassess the risks it faces in Syria.

Lebanon

Tehran accuses Israel of holding four Iranians who disappeared 34 years ago

Iran's defense minister said that Israel is holding prisoner the four Iranians who were kidnapped in Lebanon in 1982.

Israel

US should accept Russian offer to coordinate strikes on Jabhat al-Nusra

US-Russian joint action would be a step forward to defeat al-Qaeda affiliate; US rejects Russian bid to designate Ahrar al-Sham and Jaish al-Islam as terrorist groups; Nasrallah vows deeper commitment to Syria following death of top commander.

Lebanon

How drama therapy is helping Lebanese prisoners and society

A Lebanese psychologist has been working with inmates in Roumieh Prison to help them, through drama therapy, to forgive themselves, express themselves and develop empathy.

Lebanon

Can Lebanon make progress on oil, gas exploration efforts?

A litany of more pressing crises has led to a delay in efforts to advance work on Lebanon's nascent oil and gas sector.

Egypt