Dario Salvi

For the current Maronite primate Card Bechara al-Rahi the decision is "a source of pride" for the country and the Lebanese around the world. The new venerable "fought" for the country’s independence and for the defence of its territory. The papal proclamation comes less than two months before the start of ceremonies that will mark Lebanon’s centennial.

Operation in the western desert area, along the border with Syria. Renamed "Desire for victory", soldiers, paramilitary units, tribal groups and coalition fighters participate. The government has armed Shiite groups in the northern province of Nineveh to repel jihadist attacks.

In the past, members of the Jordanian-based Waqf charity could stop incursions by Jewish extremists. Now they are being arrested for this. For Waqf director, tensions could turn "into a religious war". Incursions into the area by Jewish ​​fundamentalists linked to messianic movements continue to rise.

Addressing citizens, Ekrem Imamoglu wanted to celebrate "democracy." "The people of Istanbul gave a lesson" to the government leadership. State TV censorship, which did not broadcast images of the event. The president seems to have accepted the defeat and the "message" launched "by the people".

In a letter 116 personalities at home and abroad warn about the danger of a war and the crisis triggered by sanctions. A conflict would provide the pretext for a hard line to suppress activism and dissidence. With "disastrous" results for millions of people throughout the region. Iraqi President: "We don't want another war".

Trump's son-in-law illustrated the $ 50 billion plan for a prosperous future in the Middle East. Palestinian leader: "Insult to our intelligence". Dry also by the Lebanese premier. Applauded by Saudis and Israelis. Oman relaunches support for Palestinians and announces the opening of the embassy, ​​a first for a Gulf nation.

Trump’s punitive measures are hitting all levels of society. Fr Ryan, a Chaldean clergyman, talks about economic and cultural problems that threaten the future. Emigration is a problem Christians and Muslims share. Christians feel isolated and ask for a prayer for the whole country.

Trump's son-in-law illustrates $ 50 billion project to transform the region into a "business model". But no reference to political solutions. Israel favorable to the project. The Palestinian leadership boycott the appointment. Abbas: money is important, but politics even more.

At least 1500 minors are "trapped" in the country's judicial system. Of these 185 were sentenced to jail for being linked to Daesh. Victims of jihadist brainwashing, they suffer torture or violence in their cells. Bishop Yousif: we need an effort by the international community and answers such as education and schooling. The commitment of the Chaldean Church.

The diplomatic and commercial war between Tehran and Washington is bringing the population to its knees. Inflation has multiplied the price of consumer goods. People point the finger at the inefficiency and incompetence of government officials. But US sanctions have effectively isolated the country. And today they also affect the supreme leader Khamenei.

Istanbul, from economic hub to agent of democratic transformation (profile)

The leader of the secular opposition defeats the president's candidate with an even higher margin than the March administrative election. He obtained 54% of the votes, compared to 45% of former Prime Minister Binali Yildirim. Citizens in celebration invade streets and squares of the city. The most serious electoral defeat for the Sultan.