Al-Sharaa warns of Lebanon’s deterioration and backs state monopoly on arms
Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa warned of the risks of a worsening situation in Lebanon, expressing Damascus’ concern over the possibility of an internal escalation, while stressing that Syria has no intention of military intervention in Lebanese affairs.
In an interview with Al Jazeera, cited by the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA), al-Sharaa said Syria supports Lebanese state institutions and the exclusive control of weapons by the state.
He stressed that the experience of weapons existing outside state authority over past decades has proven unsuccessful and caused serious consequences for Lebanon and the region.
Al-Sharaa also highlighted the geographical connection between Syria and Lebanon, saying Lebanon’s stability is linked to Syria’s stability, while emphasizing support for the central role of the Lebanese state in enforcing law and maintaining security.
He also addressed Hezbollah’s role during the Syrian war, noting its involvement alongside the former Syrian government, and said Syria’s approach toward Israel differs completely from Lebanon’s path, expressing doubts about the success of any Lebanese-Israeli agreement due to major obstacles.
Berri: No direct negotiations with Israel; priority is ceasefire and withdrawal
Speaker of the Lebanese Parliament Nabih Berri renewed his commitment to Lebanon’s national principles, stressing that the current priority is consolidating the ceasefire, ending the Israeli occupation of Lebanese territories, and allowing residents to return to their villages.
In remarks to Al-Akhbar newspaper, Berri said his position has not changed, rejecting interpretations that his recent statements represent preparation for direct negotiations with Israel.
He reaffirmed his rejection of direct talks, maintaining his previous stance on the “Framework Agreement,” and said any current steps must remain limited to stopping attacks and ensuring Israeli withdrawal.
Berri also expressed pessimism over the current track, warning that developments related to “pilot areas” increase concerns he had previously raised.
Kanaan: Aoun’s Washington steps are bold choices to save Lebanon
Chairman of the Parliamentary Finance and Budget Committee MP Ibrahim Kanaan expressed support for President Joseph Aoun’s positions and steps during his visit to Washington, describing them as bold choices aimed at saving Lebanon.
Following his meeting with President Aoun, Kanaan said these efforts contribute to completing a roadmap to end the war, restore Lebanese sovereignty, rebuild the country, and strengthen the army.
He stressed that protecting the Lebanese people begins with strengthening the state and ending the cycle of destruction.
Kanaan also announced that work is continuing on the final touches of banking reform legislation aimed at restoring depositors’ and investors’ confidence, emphasizing that laws must protect rights rather than interests.
Abu Chakra: No gasoline crisis, supplies are available
Fuel distributors’ representative Fadi Abu Chakra reassured Lebanese citizens that there is no gasoline shortage, saying reports about fuel disappearing or stations closing are inaccurate.
He explained that companies continue supplying gasoline, while some delays are linked to waiting for new fuel shipments to be unloaded.
Abu Chakra called on citizens not to respond to rumors that could create unnecessary crowds at gas stations.
Abu Faour welcomes government move on underground rainwater storage
MP Wael Abu Faour welcomed the government’s approval of a draft law allowing municipalities to issue permits for underground rainwater collection tanks on private properties.
He said the measure would help address the water crisis and reduce pressure on groundwater resources, noting that permits will be exempt from fees if legal standards are respected.
Farmers threaten escalation over fuel crisis
President of the National Farmers’ Union Ibrahim al-Tarshishi warned of possible widespread protests, including a general strike and road closures, over what he described as a fuel crisis affecting the agricultural sector.
He said continued shortages of gasoline and diesel threaten agricultural production, accusing some oil companies of monopolistic practices and seeking additional profits at citizens’ expense.
Salam chairs government meeting on economy, energy, and development
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam chaired a ministerial meeting at the Grand Serail focused on economic, development, and regional issues.
Information Minister Paul Morcos said discussions included strengthening cooperation with Iraq, particularly in the energy sector, including the possibility of connecting Lebanon to the Basra–Tripoli pipeline and rehabilitating oil storage facilities.
The meeting also addressed cooperation with Turkey to improve electricity supply, activate internet services, and strengthen consumer protection.
Aoun tells Turk: Israeli destruction in the South violates human rights
President Joseph Aoun told UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk that Israel’s continued destruction of homes and villages in southern Lebanon constitutes a violation of international law.
Aoun said religious and heritage sites were also targeted, stressing that Lebanon remains committed to implementing the “Framework Agreement” but will not accept continued violations.
Türk said the UN human rights office is monitoring developments in Lebanon and preparing a report on related violations.
Aoun meets Ghobash and praises UAE support for Lebanon
President Joseph Aoun received UAE Federal National Council Speaker Saqr Ghobash, who conveyed greetings from UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Aoun praised the UAE’s support for Lebanon and welcomed the decision allowing Emirati citizens to visit Lebanon, describing it as a reflection of the strong ties between the two countries.
Salam meets Türk: Documenting violations ahead of accountability
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam met with UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk to discuss the work of the international team collecting evidence of violations of international humanitarian law.
Salam stressed the government’s commitment to continuing documentation efforts, particularly through an impartial international body.
Electricity of Lebanon workers suspend strike after government guarantees
The union of workers and employees at Electricité du Liban announced the suspension of its strike following a meeting with the Energy Minister.
The union said it received guarantees that Law 462/2002 would not be amended in a way that harms employees’ rights, announcing the resumption of normal operations starting Tuesday, July 28, 2026.
French Ambassador honored for support in Beirut Port rehabilitation
Beirut Port Chairman and Director General Marwan al-Naffi honored French Ambassador Hervé Magro and Economic Affairs Director François Sporrer for their role in supporting the rehabilitation of the port following the August 4, 2020 explosion.
Al-Naffi highlighted the importance of Lebanese-French relations and partnership in rebuilding and developing the port.
Press Editors’ Syndicate rejects media law draft
The Lebanese Press Editors’ Syndicate rejected the media law draft referred to Parliament’s general assembly, saying it fails to protect freedoms and does not meet the needs of developing the media sector.
The syndicate warned against articles allowing imprisonment of journalists and called for a comprehensive review involving media professionals.
Türk: Widespread violations in Lebanon may amount to war crimes
UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk said his office documented widespread violations of international humanitarian law in Lebanon, some of which may amount to war crimes.
He highlighted the scale of destruction and displacement in southern Lebanon, calling for the protection of civilians and respect for international law.
Türk also stressed the need for justice in the Beirut Port explosion case and rebuilding trust between the state and citizens.
Rassamny launches expansion project for Kfarfalous–Karkha–Bqasta road
Public Works and Transport Minister Fayez Rassamny laid the foundation stone for a road expansion, maintenance, and paving project covering the Kfarfalous–Karkha and Karkha–Bqasta–Awali roads, extending approximately 12 kilometers.
Rassamny said the project aims to improve connectivity between Jezzine and Sidon, enhance road safety, and support development in southern regions.
Government declares August 4 a national day of mourning
The Lebanese government announced Tuesday, August 4, 2026, as a national day of mourning marking the anniversary of the Beirut Port explosion.
The decision includes closing official institutions, lowering flags, and calling on media outlets to dedicate programs to commemorating the tragedy and standing with victims’ families.
US contacts Berri over possible Lebanese negotiation track
MTV reported that US officials are communicating with Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri in an effort to reach understandings related to the Lebanese file.
The report indicated that Qatari and Saudi officials may visit Beirut to follow up on ongoing diplomatic efforts and support the negotiation process.
Trump: Good opportunity in talks with Iran
US President Donald Trump said Washington is holding talks with Iran, describing the possibility of progress as a “good opportunity.”
He said coordination with Israel continues, adding that the United States has various options in dealing with the Iranian file.
Trump also said he would ask Russian President Vladimir Putin to provide Iran with satellite images, in a move linked to regional developments.
