27-04-2024 01:39 PM Jerusalem Timing

Lebanon PM Rejects Political Solution with Gunmen

Lebanon PM Rejects Political Solution with Gunmen

Lebanese Prime Minister Tammam Salam rejected on Monday "political solutions" with militants fighting the army in the eastern border region of Arsal.

Lebanese Premier Tammam SalamLebanese Prime Minister Tammam Salam rejected on Monday "political solutions" with militants fighting the army in the eastern border region of Arsal.

Speaking in a press conference following an emergency cabinet meeting in the capital Beirut, Salam said his government was on maximum alert to defend Lebanon against what he called "forces of darkness".

"Lebanon faces a systematic offensive from 'forces of darkness' that violated Lebanese sovereignty," he told reporters.

Arsal has been the site of clashes between the Lebanese army and militant groups, believed to be coming from Syria, since Saturday following the arrest of a senior terrorist.

"The Lebanese army has the full support of the government," Salam said. "There will be no compromise with terrorists and those who violate Lebanese territories," he added.

The Lebanese army on Monday sent reinforcements to troops fighting the militants in Arsal.