Just before U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice started her short trip to the Middle East on Sunday, she described the massive destruction, dislocation, and human suffering in Lebanon as an inevitable part of the “birth pangs of a new Middle East.” From my perspective here in Beirut, where she …

PARIS, July 24 (Reuters) – Lebanon’s president accused Israel on Monday of using phosphorous bombs in its 13-day offensive and urged the United Nations to demand an immediate ceasefire. “According to the Geneva Convention, when they use phosphorous bombs and laser bombs, is that allowed against civilians and children?” President …

The Israeli military will remain in southern Lebanon until a multinational peacekeeping force is deployed in the area, the country’s defence minister said today. Amir Peretz said Israel would control the zone by firing at anyone who enters it.