Latest news with #Jadal
Tayyar.org
28-06-2025
- Politics
- Tayyar.org
Bassil: Hezbollah's Weapons Must Be Handed to the State, and the Government Is Failing on Refugees and Reforms
The President of the Free Patriotic Movement, MP Gebran Bassil, stressed that 'Hezbollah's weapons can no longer serve as a deterrent to Israel after recent developments, as the circumstances have fundamentally changed.' He affirmed that the defense of Lebanon must be the exclusive responsibility of the state and that Lebanon must establish a legitimate means of defending itself. 'A serious process of handing over the weapons has yet to begin,' he said. Bassil acknowledged the ongoing Israeli occupation and attempts to resettle Palestinians, stating: 'We cannot simply submit to Israel. The weapons must come at a price and their handover must be based on mutual understanding.' He emphasized that these weapons belong to Lebanon and the Lebanese state, and insisted that dialogue must not be used as a stalling tactic. 'No Lebanese has claimed victory over Hezbollah to ridicule it, but Hezbollah must recognize the need to place its military power under the custody of the state. We say this with goodwill and concern.' He added: 'We must honor the martyrs who sacrificed their lives to liberate Lebanon from Israeli occupation. The resistance weapon fulfilled its duty, but missiles alone can no longer confront the age of artificial intelligence.' In an interview on the LBC program 'Jadal' with journalist Mario Abboud, Bassil described recent events in Nabatieh as an 'insult' reminiscent of Israeli violations. He pointed out that while Iran lost its nuclear program but preserved its regime, Israel, on the other hand, lost its prestige. 'The biggest winner in the region is the United States,' he said. 'What has become clear is that without American support, Israel cannot protect itself.' Bassil reiterated: 'Weapons should not be tied to political privileges. Hezbollah itself has not said otherwise. Lebanon cannot function without any of its components, including the Shiites—just as it cannot without any other sect.' ⸻ On Government Performance, Reforms, and Displacement Regarding the current Lebanese government, Bassil remarked that he sees no meaningful difference between it and a caretaker government, except for some appointments. He criticized the newly proposed judicial independence law, saying it is worse than previous drafts, and lamented the lack of seriousness in addressing key national files. 'Where is the financial and economic reform plan? Where is the depositors' money?' he asked, noting that 'the government only responded to one of ten questions we submitted.' He questioned the fate of the forensic audit and laws concerning subsidy fund audits: 'What has the government done with the Alvarez plan which was accomplished by the government of Hassan Diab in a short time? What message is it sending to depositors?' Bassil criticized what he called a double standard in appointments: 'Those who fought quotas violated that very logic. Security appointments remain governed by sectarian balance—nothing is passed without the Shiite duo's approval.' He noted that two Christian officers in the Internal Security Forces Command Council were dismissed, while the Shiite officer was retained: 'And yet they tell us there is no quota?' On Syrian displacement, Bassil accused the government of ignoring Syria's changing reality: 'The regime has changed, the war has ended, and sanctions have been eased—yet the government clings to outdated narratives.' He condemned the shift from voluntary to 'sustainable' return, explaining that the plan allows those who return to Syria to come back to Lebanon if they feel unsafe. 'The UNHCR wants to organize 'exploration trips' for Syrians at a cost of $200 million. This is complicity. Why are there still two million Syrians in Lebanon?' he asked. The current plan, he explained, allows only 24% to return under certain conditions, while 76% remain unaddressed. 'This is an abandonment of our identity. The displacement file is the most dangerous issue Lebanon faces today. What are we afraid of—the Trump administration that opposes illegal immigration?' He concluded: 'I accuse the government of appeasing the international community in this file. What is the foreign minister doing? Where are those who claim to oppose Syrian displacement?' ⸻ On the Damascus Church Bombing Commenting on the bombing of St. Elias Church in Damascus, Bassil said it represents an attack on Syria's diversity and freedom of belief. 'The Syrian government is responsible for preventing such crimes. This isn't just about a bombing—these are systematic violations of human dignity and Christian presence in Syria.' He added: 'I do not understand the logic behind international policy in the region, but Christians continue to pay the price. It is unacceptable for Lebanon to live next to factions like Daesh and feel secure. What we want is a humane and open Islam like that of Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Prince Mohammed bin Zayed, Prince Tamim, the Emir of Bahrain, the Emir of Kuwait, and the Sultan of Oman.' He stressed that the Syrian regime is caught between external expectations and internal ideological commitments: 'This dual pressure is what fuels the current crisis.' ⸻ On Peace and Regional Stability Regarding peace between Syria and Israel, Bassil said: 'Lebanon is awaiting a just and comprehensive peace—we cannot remain outside such a framework.' He emphasized: 'We don't want Israeli arrogance or fragmentation among Arab states. Ahmad al-Sharaa was chosen to lead Syria because of his willingness to pursue peace.' Asked about Syria joining the Abraham Accords, he responded: 'Syria must align with Saudi Arabia's position. Lebanon seeks an end to aggression—not resettlement. We must stand in solidarity with the broader Arab consensus.' He emphasized that the Saudi-proposed two-state solution is now a binding Arab position: 'No Arab state can ignore it, and no one should tolerate what's happening to the Palestinians.' ⸻ On Municipal Elections Bassil said the FPM approached the municipal elections from a community-service angle, while the Lebanese Forces treated it as a political contest. 'Our results in this round are better than in 2016,' he said. He noted that out of Lebanon's 30 municipal unions, the FPM was involved in 20 and supported 15. 'The Lebanese Forces only won the Bsharre union outright. Their so-called 'Christian tsunami' turned out to be a mere breeze.' He added that the Forces did not win any unions in Chouf, Aley, Akkar, or the Bekaa. 'They launched a media war of elimination and failed. In Keserwan, five parties won the union, and in Jezzine, the results are under appeal due to the unjust exclusion of a detained deputy mayor of Haidab.' ⸻ On the Casino and Electoral Law Bassil responded to questions about the casino controversy: 'The attacks began when revenues increased. No one is trying to draw us into that.' On the forestry decree, he criticized the geographical imbalance: 'You can't send someone from Nabatieh to Zgharta and call that fair. We're not asking for a 50-50 split, but not 90-10 either.' He reaffirmed the importance of the 2017 electoral law: 'It corrected diaspora representation with six MPs. If Lebanese abroad can vote, why strip them of representation?' He warned: 'They're trying to cancel the six diaspora seats—this would be a major crime against expatriates.' ⸻ On His Political Future Asked about his candidacy in constituencies outside Batroun, Bassil said: 'That's a lie.' Regarding alliances with Hezbollah, he stated: 'We will determine our allies based on national interest and the political landscape. No one imposes anything on us.' He questioned: 'Why is it acceptable for the Lebanese Forces to ally with Hezbollah in the Beirut municipality without criticism?'
What's On
26-06-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
9 things to do in Dubai this Islamic New Year weekend: June 27 to 29
This Islamic New Year long weekend in Dubai is packed with exciting events and activities for everyone. From live music and cultural shows to shopping festivals and family outings, here's your day-by-day guide to what's on across the city. I Friday, June 27 Guess the vibe at Eva Fashion brand GUESS is taking over Eva Beach Restaurant and if you're a fan of this brand, you'll need to head down to experience the sunbeds, cabanas, and even the Eva Beach Restaurant adorned with the iconic GUESS monogram. Grab a gorgeous cocktail and take in the beach views while you're surrounded by luxury fashion. Location: Eva Beach Restaurant, West Palm, Palm Jumeirah Contact: 04 510 4800 Try a brand new ladies night This Friday night Greek-inspired Ladies Night at Veranda JLT offers a laid-back luxe vibe paired with bold Mediterranean flavours, a killer playlist, and unbeatable value. Enjoy a delicious menu featuring spanakopita, lamb kontosouvli, and fresh Greek salad, all served in an elegant, effortlessly cool setting, perfect for chic Islamic New Year weekend plans in Dubai. Location: Veranda, JLT, Dubai Offer: Dhs150 for 1 starter, 1 main & 4 drinks (fine wines + signature cocktails) Contact: @verandajlt Catch a play Nikolai Gogol's The Government Inspector is a razor-sharp satire that skewers corruption, exposes absurdity, and delivers laughs in every scene. The plot follows a case of mistaken identity and a town full of corrupt, greedy officials. Comedy and satire combined – what more do you need. Location: The Junction, Alserkal Avenue Offer: Dhs120 per ticket Times: June 27 to 29, 7pm to 10pm Contact: (0) 4 338 8525 @cinemaakil Saturday, June 28 Do dinner and a show Looking for a high-energy night out this weekend? Gatsby Dubai has just the ticket. It's a 1920s-inspired spectacle packed with top DJs, dazzling performances, and immersive entertainment. With free entry, bottle service tables, and no minimum spend, it's the ultimate way to turn up the heat indoors while staying cool. Location: Gatsby Dubai, Business Bay Date: Wednesday to Sunday 9pm to 3am Contact: +971 4 554 9418 | reservations@ @ Go on an overnight adventure This all-inclusive overnight desert safari is a UAE staycation must. Camp out in a deluxe tent on a raised platform with a world of amenities and experiences to complete your stay. Included in the package is a thrilling dune drive, camel ride, walking night safari, waiter service, set menu BBQ dinner and more. Location: Dubai Desert Offer: Starts from Dhs1,790 Contact: ( 800) 272 2426 @arabianadventures Attend a free concert Kick off the long weekend with the official launch of Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) at City Centre Mirdif. This family-friendly evening of live music brings two major regional acts to the stage for a free concert that celebrates the start of Dubai's most exciting summer season. Rock out with Jadal at 7:20pm, then sing along to Al Shami's heartfelt hits at 9pm — all in the mall's Central Galleria. Location: Central Galleria, City Centre Mirdif Offer: Free live concert Contact: Sunday, June 29 Catch an art exhibition Sunrise At The Vortex, the second solo exhibition by artist Nima Nabavi on display at The Third Line, features a selection of new works made by the artist between 2022 and 2025. The pieces are rooted in his travels to sites across the world considered to be energy centers by different communities. A visit here is a great idea for this Islamic New year weekend in Dubai. Location: The Third Line, Alserkal Avenue Offer: Free entry Times: Until July 27, daily, 11am to 7pm Contact: ( 0) 4 341 1367 @thethirdlinedxb Try a croissant pizza Papa Johns is elevating the pizza experience with the launch of its all-new Croissant Pizza, a delicious fusion of flaky, buttery croissant layers and bold, classic Papa Johns flavours. You can now be some of the first to try it, as it has only launched in the UAE so far. Location: Papa Johns locations across Dubai Offer: New Croissant Pizza now available at participating outlets Contact: 600 520001 @papajohnsuae Pair wine with your Sunday A cosy little wine bar tucked beside McGettigan's in Souk Madinat Jumeirah, 1964 feels like a quiet break from the usual. Named after the year the first McGettigan's opened in Ireland, it's an intimate spot with a waterside terrace, low lights, and an easy wine list. There's a daily deal that gets you three glasses and nibbles – including some seriously good olives. Does this tickle your fancy? Get more wine pairing inspo here. Location: 19 Sixty Four by McGettigan's, Souk Madinat Jumeirah Offer: 'Beginner's Guide To Wine' daily promotion – 3 selected wines plus nibbles for Dhs129. Times: Daily from 12pm to 2am Contact: (0)56 548 1652 @1964bymcgettigans
CairoScene
05-05-2025
- Entertainment
- CairoScene
Shkoon's 'Greater Than One' EP Finds Hope in Humanity
Shkoon's 'Greater Than One' EP Finds Hope in Humanity Shkoon bolsters their signature blend of traditional Middle Eastern instrumentals and contemporary electronics with more vulnerability than ever before. Syrian-German electronic band Shkoon has released their highly-anticipated EP, 'Greater Than One', following months of world tour madness, where the duo focused on creating music live in collaboration with their audience during the shows. Although on their last album, 'Masahiya', was a patchwork blurring the lines between reality and fiction, 'Greater Than One' chose to stay in the present, where intention-filled instrumentals and obstinate lyrics firmly hold down their hope in humanity. Across four tracks, Shkoon bolsters their signature blend of traditional Middle Eastern instrumentals and contemporary electronics with more vulnerability than ever before, capturing the emotional depth and nuances of what it means to be a human in the 'modern world '- a relatable portrayal of armageddon. The EP's opener, 'Jadal', is a melodic techno interplay of groovy synths, deep basslines and soulful violin strings, inspired by moments suspended between action and silence. The track unfurls into gradual piano progressions and rich oud arrangements, intersected with ethereal vocals, reflecting on one's inner conflict and their inner nature for resilience amid a region that's perpetually on the edge. 'Souf', the EP's second preview single, follows with a trance-inducing melody, weaving classical piano notes and incessant drum patterns with traditional Sufi chants. Built around vocal invocations like 'Ya Madad' and 'Ya Jamil', the track serves as a longing for a spiritual connection that almost feels hypnotic, where one can surrender to their emotions and discover the self. Meanwhile, 'Mili' is a more spacey, softer track, a slower-tempo love song that reflects on the beauty of intimacy and being truly seen. The closing track, 'Jannah', stands out as one of the most powerful moments on the EP. Driven by fast-paced rhythms and multi-layered instrumentations, the track paints an image of hope and healing, reaffirming the promise of a brighter future, a heavenly and welcoming space where the Arab world ultimately finds peace.
