Inga Schei Lokman Slim LEBANON in CONFLICT 2013 - 2014

Hayya Bina Blank Page Inga Schei Lokman Slim LEBANON in CONFLICT 2013 - 2014

Hayya Bina Hayya Bina The Lebanese Association for Inclusive Citizenship October 2015 Tel.: 01/274004 I P.O. Box: 11-5222 Beirut Lebanon www.hayyabina.org I [email protected] Hayya Bina Design by: Hisham Salam

This report was produced as part of “Understanding Fault Lines in a Changing Lebanon: Perspectives of Emerging Grassroots Religious and Traditional Leadership,” a program funded by the United States Institute for Peace (USIP). The views expressed herein are Hayya Bina's alone and are not intended to reflect or substitute for those of USIP. To enable sharing of the documentation on which this report is based, Hayya Bina and UMAM Documentation and Research partnered to add two new sections to UMAM's online database, Memory At Work (www.memoryatwork.org). Titled (in Arabic) fahras al-onf fi lubnan 2013 and fahras al-onf fi lubnan 2014, these sections contain most of the open source, Arabic language documentation used to compile this report. Blank Page صفحة بيضاء Lebanon 2013 – 2014 “Stability” vs. “Instabilities”

The year 2015 had barely begun involved in the Jabal Mohsen when a double suicide bombing bombing. But accusatory fingers struck a café in Jabal Mohsen were also being pointed at the just outside of Tripoli. The attack in Ain al-Helwe Palestinian refugee this largely Alawi area (essentially camp east of Saida, where Tripoli the capital for Lebanese Alawi) Islamists sought refuge following claimed the lives of seven people the LAF's substantial military and injured 35 others. The most operation to "pacify" the city in interesting aspect of this incident October 2014. In concert with is that the two young men who the “Sunni-oriented” actions and perpetrated it were themselves associated accusations, more residents of Tripoli. They lived in its was heard about reactivating poorest quarter, al-Mankoubeen, the Bekaa-oriented security which is within walking distance plan announced several months to the café they targeted. earlier. Though public statements Ironically, al-Mankoubeen refer only generally to the Bekaa, translates to “the Quarter of the it is common knowledge (at Unfortunates!” least among the Lebanese) that the epicenter of unrest in Two days after the bombing, a the Bekaa is almost exclusively special ISF detachment forcibly the north. That area, associated relocated the (Sunni) Islamist historically with the production "landlords" of Roumieh Prison's of drugs, has emerged over time B block, and their parish, to and through wars as the hub for another area in the prison. The a variety of criminal activities pretext for that action was including kidnapping for ransom, that some prisoners in block arms smuggling and even more B—transformed over the years “traditionally,” auto theft. The (thanks to the blessings of some idea behind the security plan politicians) into something of called for enforcement of the an Islamist principality—were law via a reinvigorated program

7 to arrest criminals. The approach to the strain caused by that was considered particularly tremendous influx, a quasi- important because the dramatic consensual political decision was increase in crime included made in late 2014 by Tammam incidents that endangered “civil Salam's “National Interest” peace” and were even linked to government to close Lebanon's terrorist activities.1,2 borders to newcomers from Syria and adopt a “zero Syrian Today, however, not everything refugee” policy. Enforcement of that affects Lebanon takes that decision began in early 2015. place within its borders. On January 18, 2015, for instance, In contrast to the security an Israeli helicopter attacked events that would soon begin a joint Hezbollah-IRGC patrol to unfold, 2015—from a political in the southern Syrian region of perspective—began on what Quneitra.3 The strike reminded the seemed a reassuring note. For Lebanese that several thousand example, none of the incidents of their countrymen, primarily that occurred succeeded Shia, are involved in armed in interrupting the dialogue conflicts outside the country. As commenced in December if it were a tennis game, people 2014 between the pro-Saudi held their breath in anticipation Sunni Future Movement and of the return, which came pro-Iranian Shia Hezbollah (an quickly enough when Hezbollah engagement that coincided with launched a “restrained” response general appeasement by the in the contested Shebaa Christian allies of the two large Farms area that straddles the “Muslim” actors). Nevertheless, Lebanese-Syrian-Israeli tri-border the aphorism used to describe zone. That action closed the that initiative was not particularly brief episode. Similarly, as the reassuring, as the entities involved Lebanese remain involved in (which had been members of Syria, refugees from that country the same government since the have also emerged as a new beginning of 2014) agreed that and populous demographic the talks were needed to “cool within Lebanon itself. In response down the Sunni-Shia tension.”

1 On November 15, (Christian Maronites) Sobhi and Nadimah Fakhri were killed at home in Btedii, in northwest Bekaa. They died at the hands of Shia criminals from the Jaafar clan who were fleeing the LAF patrol that was pursuing them. The gunmen entered the Fakhris' home intending to steal their vehicle, but when the family resisted, the criminals shot the couple and their son. The issue spiked tensions in the Bekaa and stoked emotions among the Christian community to the point that Maronite Patriarch Beshara al-Rahi intervened. He urged the government to exact justice for the couple's murder and called on the Jaafar family to hand over the killers and reject any “political immunity” the criminals might enjoy. Today, the killers remain free. 2 See page 94, footnote 5. 3 Dehghan, Saeed Kamali. "Top Iranian general and six Hezbollah fighters killed in Israeli attack in Syria." The Guardian. January 19, 2015. http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/jan/19/top-iranian-general-hezbollah-fighters-killed- israel-attack-syria.

8 9 Realistically, that slogan says as somehow fail to guarantee much about the state of Sunni- some form of calm within the Shia tension in the country as country). Further, the exclusive it does about the balance of character of the ongoing inter- roles within the various Lebanese Muslim dialogue illustrates the communities. For instance, the new “division of labor” that vague notion of easing Sunni-Shia exists within Lebanon's various tension via dialogue conducted communities and underscores between the two "camps" (each just how little the Christians count of which asserts that it represents when it comes to preserving the the respective communities security of the country. involved) clearly takes precedence over the election In general, January 2015 may be of a new Lebanese president. considered representative of the More to the point, Salam's motivations behind, and actors "National Interest" government involved in the violence Lebanon (formed in early 2014) was witnessed in 2013 and 2014 and seated thanks to a "nihil obstat" for which this report seeks to registered by the Saudis and account. The areas described Iranians (acknowledgments herein include: brokered by France on behalf - Sunni-Shia tension of the international community). - Political polarization Moreover, the new government - Security-oriented attempts to was formed in anticipation of an contain violence enduring presidential vacancy, - Interplay between events since all involved were well and actors on both sides of aware of how difficult it would the Lebanese/Syrian border be to agree on a successor to President Michel Suleiman (who - Social decay that has was elected under exceptional affected some areas and circumstances in May 2008 fomented their "reinvention" following the Doha Agreement as hotbeds for extremism that ended the country's "mini- - Political protection of civil war" and who left office at criminal acts in some areas the expiration of his term on May At several instances during these 25, 2014). It must also be noted two years, Lebanon seemed to that these political machinations be losing its fragile equilibrium have prevailed over any and on the edge of collapse. Yet attention being given by the regardless of that impression or State to ensure at least minimal how likely the country's implosion functioning of its institutions (as may be in the future, Lebanon if their full functionality could never fails to remain resilient in the

8 9 face of new and/or worsening with the actors involved challenges. That resilience begs (including ground actors and the question: "Is the country key actors, and decision and simply experiencing a resurgence opinion makers) and another of “more of the same” kinds of effort that focused on assembling violence and responding to them those same actors in various with "more of the same" kinds of regions throughout Lebanon in fixes?" While that query comes an attempt to tackle specific to mind frequently and is entirely tensions and sources of violence. legitimate, another question As work on this report progressed, deserves to be asked: "To what its structure and design were extent are Lebanese leaders in revised to ensure the output the various communities and product would not be an exercise groups (even if they are clients of in simply "checking the boxes." regional superpowers) actually Rather, we hoped to design controlling their communities a flexible template that could and guaranteeing that the be reproduced easily and on same level of resilience shown a regular basis. Notably, the thus far will remain evident?" substance of this report benefits Obviously, the dilemma faced directly from those meetings and by Lebanon's Sunni community— interviews. which is currently experiencing a significant leadership crisis that Initially, the report focused on parallels its feverish soul-searching gathering data for the 2013 – process—comes immediately to 2014 period within the following mind. However, the situation in 11 areas: borders, the role of the other communities is certainly no LAF, inter-confessional incidents, better— even though it may not incidents of mass killings, be quite as visible. assassinations and assassination • attempts, kidnappings, prisons, real estate incidents, domestic This report derives from the violence, violence at universities documentation and research and at athletic events and component of a USIP-funded the Palestinian/Syrian refugee program, “Understanding Fault situation. Data on all of these Lines in a Changing Lebanon,” areas were gathered gradually as which was led by Hayya Bina. In the incidents occurred and with sum, the program consisted of insights obtained from the various two distinct areas—a research- actors involved. We began based effort that included a drafting the report as events field aspect accomplished by continued to unfold but realized conducting dozens of interviews that our initial intent had shifted

10 11 somewhat, particularly after Syrian national security office concluding that focusing on some and a close confidant of Syrian of the topics and referencing President Bashar al-Assad) and others within those areas would pro-Syrian, former Lebanese be far more interesting than minister Michel Samaha. In short, attempting equal treatment of the plot consisted of inciting the topics listed above. sectarian conflict in the country by emplacing and detonating • explosives during the holy month of Ramadan—particularly in Aside from our "mid-course Sunni areas.4 correction," we must also describe how we tracked and The unique status accorded the told this comprehensive "story" late General al-Hassan (who despite the fact that it was still hailed from north Lebanon) being played out. As 2012 was was evident based on the ending, Lebanon experienced decision to bury him beside an act of violence that proved the late former prime minister to be particularly important. in downtown Beirut. Still, the Late on October 19, 2012, a car decision to honor al-Hassan was bomb exploded on a side street a difficult one, as his funeral off the bustling Sassine Square in prompted vitriolic statements east Beirut’s Christian Ashrafieh against Prime Minister Najib neighborhood. The event was Mikati (notably, when Hezbollah unique, as it was the first such decided in 2011 to drop its bombing to terrorize Lebanon support for the cabinet led by since 2008. By nightfall, it had Saad Hariri, Mikati agreed to become evident that Brigadier succeed the “son of the martyr”). General Wissam al-Hassan, who Further, when Mikati formed a headed the intelligence agency “partisan” cabinet (as his own of the Internal Security Forces, was devoid of any March 14 was among the three people representation), he was dubbed killed and dozens injured by “the Sunni Quisling.” Ultimately, the huge explosion. Hassan’s Mikati was even accused of most recent exploit was foiling being morally responsible for a plot to destabilize Lebanon al-Hassan's assassination. The which involved high ranking situation seemed to reach a figures such as General Ali al- deadlock, especially through Mamlouk (the head of the the perception that any

4 Of note, beyond his official capacity within the Lebanese security "establishment," the late Brigadier General al-Hassan was especially close to former Prime Minister Saad Hariri. In fact, al-Hassan conducted overt and covert missions on behalf of the former prime minister and the March 14 Alliance, which included engaging in "shadowy" talks with Hezbollah, the Syrian regime and other parties.

10 11 support Hezbollah could have already fragile stability. In fact, given Mikati would include considering the late Brigadier negative side effects, which General al-Hassan's activities, simply exacerbated Mikati's his assassination meant that all proscription from his own channels of communication community. Unsurprisingly (given between the belligerent parties the international community's in Lebanon were blocked. The abiding interest in Lebanon), a "infernal machine" had finally "miraculous" resolution to the lost its brakes. Unfortunately, and situation—which also affected despite the intensive care that Mikati's cabinet—originated continues to be shown by the directly and at the highest international community, that level from outside Lebanon. dire assessment of the situation On October 22, 2012, the has proven correct. Although the ambassadors of the five violence that continues to affect superpowers and the permanent Lebanon has not yet reached UN representative in Beirut visited the same levels of barbarity President Michel Suleiman at the apparent in neighboring presidential palace and insisted countries, the lengthy catalog on the importance of preserving of violent incidents featured in Lebanon’s stability. Since then, this report demonstrate clearly the term “stability” (previously that the "infernal machine" was used quite often) became the indeed running wildly in the key to both understanding country. international attitudes toward Lebanon and comprehending Despite the support Mikati and the amazing flexibility Lebanese his government received from actors demonstrate in their the international community, handling of the country's affairs the political situation stagnated regardless of any prior differences to the point that Mikati was of opinion. compelled to resign soon afterward (March 22, 2013).5 Compared to the many other Moving at its typically glacial violent incidents that rocked speed, Lebanon was unable to Lebanon since the February seat a new government until 2005 assassination of former February 15, 2014, when it was Prime Minister Rafic Hariri, no formed by Tammam Salam. other assassination received That government received such attention—or had as much parliament's vote of confidence potential to derail Lebanon’s on March 20, 2015, almost a

5 “Najib Mikati’s Resignation: A self-sacrifice that has little to do with altruism….” ShiaWatch Alert 40. March 30, 2013. http://www.shiawatch.com/article/293

12 13 year to the day after Mikati's this point, it is important to resignation. The formation of underscore the fact that we have this new government failed to not, and will never describe this satisfy any favorable domestic strange reality metaphorically. necessity, nor was it immune to the ideological differences The framework described above, that separate its components coupled with the intersection or the day-to-day challenges (or lack thereof) of various posed by dynamic actions developments, will impact the that continue to occur outside many layers of Lebanese national Lebanon. Indeed, any wish that life differently. These effects will this coalition government would fall on, and shape the entity pave the way for the election we refer to as "deep Lebanon." of a new Lebanese president That country, the truest, most elemental form of Lebanon, is vanished when it was replaced not the same as the Lebanon by the murky reality that there covered by the media—even was no urgency to address the the Lebanese media. "Deep presidential vacuum. Lebanon" is so unique, so raw, Another somewhat "unique" that it is typically ignored when feature in these developments Lebanese citizens are discussing is that the dialogue that should their own country or debating the have taken place between challenges it faces. Certainly as complex as any other country, it the chief components of this is impossible to understand and government before its formation appreciate Lebanon simply by were placed "on hold" until viewing a snapshot of its reality, many months afterward. In view of the way it vacillates between of this particularly laissez-faire "stability" and "instability." attitude, it should be apparent that any demonstrable political • developments that do occur will have been conceived The ambiguity inherent in the and implemented outside the aforementioned "stability" and council of ministers. The most "instability" is proportional to the that can be expected of this complexity that characterizes cabinet is that it could reflect Lebanon. For instance, “stability” the positive or negative effects does not necessarily mean of events that occur outside that the country is doing well or its conference rooms, whether heading in the right direction, among local Lebanese actors and “instability” does not or their respective regional immediately insinuate that it and international patrons. At is descending into chaos. In

12 13 reality, “stability” and “instability” to make decisions (both vital refer to the ambient level of and petty), will do so only if understanding between the an understanding is reached primary local actors and their ahead of time by the seemingly regional patrons (primarily but incestuous and definitely self- not limited to Iran and Saudi serving community leaders/ Arabia) to maintain control over former warlords. Thus, discussions a situation, the components about voting on a national of which make it inherently budget or auditing public unstable. Admittedly, the expenses are all but superfluous! persistent mantra of “stability” has been able to withstand In tandem with its political decay, the various social, security Lebanon and the international and economic challenges to community are exhibiting which it has been subjected. increasing reliance (possibly Nevertheless, even if the over reliance) on the military exceedingly precarious current and security agencies, each of conditions persist, the cost of which shows favoritism toward Lebanon’s present and future will one political side or another. That be extremely high. Chief among excessive reliance, advertised those costs is the increasing gap to the Lebanese public as a between a shrinking “political last resort due to the hundreds realm” and an expanding of thousands of Syrian refugees “military-cum-security domain.” who sought shelter in Lebanon, is risky in and of itself owing to the Of course, Lebanon continues tendency to use the defense and to give the impression of being continued security of the country a country in which non-military as justification. It also leads to and non-security-oriented the virtual recognition that a “State institutions” are fulfilling quasi-institutional partnership their chartered roles—with the exists between Lebanon's military exclusion of the presidency, of and security bodies and the course, which has remained "military wing" of Hezbollah, vacant since May 2014. Yet that which has evolved from a militia impression is fading. Lebanon's into a small army (interestingly, parliament, for instance, has the size difference between already renewed its mandate Hezbollah and the LAF is largely twice under the catchall offset by the technical superiority justification that the “prevailing of Hezbollah's hardware). situation” is not conducive to In a best-case scenario, the holding elections, while the sustained disconnect between cabinet, which has the latitude “politics” and “security” (quite

14 15 probable given the prevailing farfetched, the promotion of regional situation) will maintain Sunni sectarian identity is likely to equilibrium between “stability” continue, and tensions between and “instability.” Unfortunately, it Sunni and Shia will quite probably will not promise a better future for increase over time. Further, since the Lebanese people, particularly such sectarian identification is its younger generations. quickly becoming the common ground on which Syrian and Nevertheless, we cannot simply Palestinian Sunnis express ignore other, less reassuring their frustration, the eventual scenarios, since a number of (negative) outcome becomes factors may conspire to incite rather simple to predict. By an escalation. For instance, extension, the current over three major factors come to reliance on security measures mind, the most salient being intended to contain radicalism the institutional involvement within the Sunni community may (directed by pro-Iran Hezbollah) actually accelerate the course of one Lebanese community— of that outcome, especially the Shia community—in the since the partnership between Syrian conflict. Any justification the LAF, other security agencies Hezbollah gives for its and Hezbollah is viewed by the involvement is condemned by Sunni community as tantamount mainstream Sunni public opinion to hijacking State institutions to within and outside Lebanon, advance Hezbollah's agenda. since its involvement is seen by that community as a direct insult. Where the Syrian refugee issue While condemnation by the is involved, the absence of an Lebanese Sunni community of informed Lebanese policy that Hezbollah’s involvement in Syria gives due consideration to the was kept under wraps (insofar situation in Syria means that as the alleged “moderate Lebanon will continue to rely leadership” of that community primarily on the generosity of the represented by the Hariri international community—and establishment, was an outspoken on its security mechanisms. Relief supporter of efforts by the Syrian efforts and security measures are people to rid the country of the indeed quick, albeit ineffective Assad dynasty/regime), it steadily fixes to a situation that is likely lost political and financial steam. to persist for an indeterminate As the likelihood of reinstituting but certainly lengthy period. a single source of moderate Yet neither relief nor security leadership within the Lebanese can change the reality that the Sunni community is certainly situation in Syria is unlikely to

14 15 improve in the near term and historical roots. In this context, that refugees in Lebanon may the status quo is the situation remain there for quite some time. that emerged following the In the meantime, a generation outbreak of violence in Syria, of resentful young Syrians a crisis which devolved from a forced to live under appalling popular protest to armed conflict economic and social conditions and about which the Lebanese will eventually emerge. In the have always disagreed. That absence of other options, disagreement took on a number they will embody two decisive of different forms (some violent, identities: being refugees some not) before it culminated and being Sunni Syrians. in the establishment of Lebanon's Unfortunately, that situation National Interest government. is almost a duplicate of what That government embodies the happened in Lebanon when conditions that (1) Hezbollah, the Palestinian refugees arrived. based on instructions from Iran, The only difference is that the will continue to fight in Syria national Palestinian identity that and (2) the Future Movement, has been shaped in the camps a client of Saudi Arabia, must will have been replaced by a admit its political defeat sectarian identity. and content itself with vocal protestations of Hezbollah’s Altogether, the foregoing involvement in Syria. factors are the makings of a Clearly, while this novel status horrific nightmare. In fact, that quo reflects the fluid dynamics is precisely why most Lebanese of the overall situation, it does prefer to believe that the not tell the entire story. A major current status quo, despite the consequence of the Syrian crisis high cost involved, will never and Hezbollah’s involvement end. Moreover, while “stability” there has been a revision to and “instability” are vague at the status of Lebanon’s borders best, the same can be said for with Israel, Syria and the the two poles between which Mediterranean. Taken together, Lebanon and the Lebanese we must conclude that the continue to swing: “status wishful thinking and prayers of quo” and “nightmare.” While the Lebanese will fall short of the nightmare that follows ensuring this status quo remains the factors noted above intact. (and others) is still a matter of speculation, the Lebanese • perception of their status quo has neither precedent nor This report is composed of

16 17 nine chapters, each of which has—to date—avoided that addresses a topic that falls under eventuality. the general heading of "Lebanon in Conflict." While these chapters Most of the chapters in this report can be reviewed individually are followed by a selective or collectively, they do not chronological list of incidents describe all aspects of the associated with the topic approach we utilized to establish being addressed. While those the technical boundaries for our chronologies indeed mention work. For instance, two chapters the most significant incidents are conspicuously absent in this that occurred during the period effort, the first of which is the covered by the report, they are Syrian refugee issue. While that not intended to be exhaustive situation is mentioned frequently and comprehensive. Rather, they are included to add in the various chapters, we did context to the topics they cover. not feel that it could be treated adequately within the constraints Finally, Hayya Bina would we set for this work. The second, like to thank everyone who rather glaring absence is a contributed to this effort. We chapter devoted to the "random extend our appreciation to acts of violence" that occurred the USIP for having funded this during the two-year period program, to all with whom we covered by this report. Suffice brainstormed and to those who it to say, Hayya Bina already shared with us their experience showcased the importance of and/or knowledge of a specific random acts of violence in a subject. Closer to home, we partnership effort that involved also express our thanks to the UMAM Documentation and Hayya Bina team, particularly Research. Given the tenuous Rasha el-Amine who gathered nature of "stability" in Lebanon and organized the data cited in since the end of the civil war, this report, and Joseph Norman the country has the propensity who contributed to the research to react wildly to even the most effort and helped draft several innocuous crimes. For instance, chapters. We also thank John a murder committed in a quarter McLean for his meticulous of Beirut may be little more editing and revision of this report than a crime of passion, theft or and other examples of English extortion. Yet such a crime can language Hayya Bina literature. easily fan the flames of sectarian In conclusion, the authors of tension which could threaten this report are solely responsible to undermine the country as a for its content and the views whole. Fortunately, Lebanon expressed herein.

16 17 Blank Page The Lebanese Discover their Borders

Where the current situation in Lebanon further specification to indicate that is concerned, it is important to recall Lebanese-Israeli line of demarcation. that Lebanon is but a small enclave. Not until the withdrawal of Syrian troops Just 210 kilometers long and 45 – 50 in 2005 and publication of UNSCR 1701 kilometers wide, it is situated between following the 2006 War would Lebanon Syria, Israel and the Mediterranean Sea. start gaining some familiarity with the For years, however, particularly since notion that the country has more than the conclusion of the Taif Agreement one border! By extension, a number and the near total assumption of of popular pro-March 14 protests that control over Lebanon by the Assad capitalized on the Lebanese-Syrian regime, it was all too easy to forget border as a target of symbolic hatred that Lebanon shared a border with helped “disclose” the existence of that Syria. From the Arida Lebanese-Syrian border. junction near the Mediterranean in the north, Lebanon's geography courses Beyond this assessment of Lebanese- southward along the Mediterranean to Syrian interaction, the border has other, Naqoura, at the Lebanese-Israeli border more dire connotations. For example, governed by United Nations Security it served as one of Hezbollah's major Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1701. Using supply routes and has since become Arida as a landmark, it runs east along the road used by Hezbollah fighters Syrian territory before bending south heading to Damascus to support to the Lebanese-Syrian-Israeli tri-border the Assad regime. Nevertheless, the area in the Anti-Lebanon Mountains. Lebanese-Syrian border began to regain a semblance of its delineation During the era of Syrian "tutelage," function only after the outbreak of the Lebanon's most problematic politico- Syrian conflict, an outcome that can military border separated the country be attributed to developments on both from its “Israeli enemy.”1 This exclusivity sides of the border. Still, the events that was so developed that the Arabic- have continued to occur on the Syrian language media—which reflects side of the border have had a massive extant linguistic trends—used the impact on life within Lebanon. Chief word houdoud (borders) without among these developments is the

1 "Tutelage" is the term agreed upon by the Lebanese after 2005 to refer to Syria's occupation of Lebanon from 1990 to 2005.

PB 19 decision by Lebanese authorities in late border region has been the traditional 2014 to close the Lebanese borders to zone of confrontation between Syrian refugees seeking shelter in the Hezbollah and Israel, which lies to country. Lebanon's south and east.

Lebanese-Syrian Border Beyond the military operations that The ongoing violence in Syria has have occurred and continue to take produced two significant features to place at several locations along the which this change—a new "definition" Lebanese-Syrian border, those areas of life within Lebanon—can be also spurred a broader understanding attributed. The first is the positively of the term itself. This dramatic change overwhelming number of Syrian in the perception of what the Lebanese refugees that have arrived in Lebanon, borders are has various short- and long- due either to military operations or term implications, three of which are growing fear of the overall situation. examined here. Secondly, certain stretches of the border have been pressed into (1) From an official State perspective, service as battlefields on which the it meant amending the LAF's creed, Assad regime—with tacit Lebanese which was based on the uniqueness agreement if not overt support—has of the “enemy.” While no one today confronted its opponents. Officially, claims that Syria is an enemy, it is also in 2012 Lebanon's Najib Mikati no longer an ally. Rather, Syria has government (January 2011 – March become a hinterland and the “source 2013) adopted what became known of the threat.” So far, that shift has as the policy of “disassociation” from been addressed under the pretext the conflict raging in Syria. Since the of “fighting terrorism,” but it is easy to entire concept behind that approach assign a specific “nationality” to that is "hazy" at best, the government can terrorism. Unfortunately, that very thing always claim neutrality, a stance that has happened several times during LAF would not affect the behavior of non- operations focused on border areas State actors. Of course, Hezbollah’s that have become homes to refugee sustained involvement in the Syrian settlements (at which conspicuous conflict cannot be compared to that breaches of basic human rights have of any other actor. Moreover, until been registered). the fall of al-Quseir in June 2013 and Kalaat al-Hosn (Krak des Chevaliers) (2) Despite the victories achieved and Yabroud in March and April 2014, by Hezbollah and the Assad regime respectively, Lebanese Sunni fighters in some border areas (commencing had still been using points along the with the fall of al-Quseir), those actions border to cross into Syria and support neither eradicated the rebels nor the rebels. By extension, therefore, stripped them of the capacity to some Lebanese territory has been used reconstitute. Hezbollah continued to similarly by Syrian rebels. Therefore, fightan-Nusra Front in the Qalamoun- the conclusion to be drawn is that Anti-Lebanon Mountains, which throughout 2013, border-related prompted attacks against those areas. tensions moved steadily northward Retribution attacks by the rebels came despite the fact that the southern in the form of car bombs (discussed

20 21 further, below) and rocket attacks they also demonstrate the capacity in the Shia Baalbek-Hermel region. of such groups to inflict damage Despite the fact that the rockets at will on that organization—and lacked precision and caused minimal more importantly, to bring the war to loss of life and material damage, Hezbollah at home. they indeed proved sufficiently “troublesome” to remind Hezbollah’s (3) From a longer-term perspective, it Shia constituency that its victories were is worthwhile to consider the impact far less comprehensive than advertised. of military operations conducted by For example, on May 28, 2013, a rocket Hezbollah along the Lebanese-Syrian struck Hermel and killed a 17-year- borders in terms of demography (on old woman.2 Between June 2013 and both sides of the border). From the March 2014, Hermel and Baalbek were perspective of the sectarian real estate attacked with rockets several times, cleansing policy being practiced in for which an-Nusra Front repeatedly Syria by the Assad regime and its allies, claimed responsibility.3,4,5,6,7,8 Sadly, there is little doubt that Hezbollah-led the roadside bombs were far more operations are focused (among other dangerous than the largely theatrical goals) on removing the major Sunni rocket attacks. Such explosions pockets from strategic points along the targeted convoys supposedly filled Lebanese-Syrian borders, such as in al- with Hezbollah combatants headed Quseir, Tall Kalakh and Zabadani. While to Syria. Several attacks were also it may still be too early (and imprudent) launched against Hezbollah convoys to draw different conclusions, it is clear by Sunni groups operating along that the demographic changes taking roads in the Bekaa leading toward place on the Syrian side of the border Syria. One such attack was the June will exact commensurate impacts on 28 bombing in the city of Zahle.9 On the Lebanese side, thus giving the July 7, two bombs were detonated in Lebanese State something else to Hermel injuring three people including contend with. civilians and military personnel.10 A week later, a roadside bomb exploded Lebanese-Israeli Border near a Hezbollah convoy in the Bekaa There is a great deal of contrast Valley between Masnaa and Majdal between the Lebanese-Syrian borders Anjar.11 These attacks not only represent and those Lebanon shares with focused responses by Sunni groups to Israel. For instance, despite all the Hezbollah's involvement in Syria, but efforts made to exert control over the

2 http://www.nytimes.com/2013/05/29/world/middleeast/syria.html?_r=2& 3 http://www.nna-leb.gov.lb/en/show-news/10086/Woman-injured-in-rocket-attack-at-Hermel 4 http://www.foxnews.com/world/2013/08/18/five-rockets-hit-eastern-lebanon-hermel/ 5 http://en.alalam.ir/news/1555814 6 http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/01/17/us-lebanon-syria-rocket-idUSBREA0G0IX20140117 7 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Jan-25/245286-nusra-front-in-lebanon-claims- hermel-rocket-attack.ashx 8 https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/archive/538431-al-nusra-front-claims-hermel-rocket-attack 9 http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2013/06/28/Explosives-target-alleged-Hezbollah- convoy-in-Lebanon.html 10 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Local-News/2013/Jul-07/222791-hermel-blasts-wound-two- lebanese-soldiers.ashx#axzz2YR6pPUdo 11 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Politics/2013/Jul-17/223970-ambush-targets-hezbollah-convoy.ashx

20 21 Lebanese-Syrian borders, they have actors. In this case, we can state with always been and will likely remain confidence that regardless of whether exceptionally porous. Neither country the incidents were coincidental or will assert nor concede control of the retaliatory in nature and despite borders, which may be one reason the number of casualties each side why the Lebanese-Syrian border region suffered, none of those incidents ever has hosted so many full-scale military really threatened to spiral entirely “out engagements. Even though those of control.” In early August 2013, for same areas experienced numerous instance, four IDF soldiers patrolling "small" incidents during 2013 and the border region were wounded 2014, none were significant enough by an explosion. According to the to compromise Lebanon's broader LAF, the Israeli soldiers penetrated security situation. But the same cannot 400 meters into the Lebanese side of be said for the Lebanese-Israeli border the Blue Line, the tense demarcation areas. The incidents that occurred that serves as a buffer between the in those regions during the reporting two countries. Hezbollah ultimately period can be categorized generally claimed responsibility for the explosion, into three types: random incidents explaining that its personnel surprised involving LAF and IDF (Israel Defense the Israelis and detonated hidden Forces) members, incidents involving improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Hezbollah and incidents that center Nevertheless, while Hezbollah tried on “spoiling attacks.” The first category to use the situation to demonstrate seems self-evident—incidents that that its operational capability in the take place at or near the meandering south had not been weakened by and ill-defined borders shared by its involvement in Syria, the incident two “enemy” states. Interestingly, prompted no genuine “follow up.” A however, on August 3, 2010—still in similar example occurred September the aftermath of the 2006 War—the 5, 2014 when Hezbollah discovered an seemingly random and inconsequential eavesdropping device in a telecom act of attempting to fell a tree network in Adloun (south). One descended into a serious incident Hezbollah member was killed when the that caused fatalities on both sides. device exploded as he attempted to Ultimately, the deaths of three LAF dismantle it. On October 7, two Israeli soldiers in that incident dramatically soldiers were injured when their vehicle enhanced the LAF's stature in the struck an IED near Shebaa Farms, eyes of the Lebanese public, and which prompted the IDF to respond by briefly, the LAF seemed to concur shelling some Lebanese villages along entirely with Hezbollah's raison d'être! the southern border. That same day, In general, however, incidents of this Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah type are quickly mediated by troops claimed responsibility for the operation of the United Nations Interim Force as revenge for the September 5 in Lebanon and thus pose no serious incident. In that case, there was no threat to the stability of the borders. specific “follow up” and both sides seemed happy with that zero-sum Incidents of the second category game. Of note, all retaliation operations are more likely to inspire fear, as they that occurred from that period until involve both State and non-State the time this report was prepared took

22 23 place in the Shebaa Farms region, As those fierce and very costly an area that is akin to a “geographic engagements were taking place in riddle” since its actual ownership is in the Anti-Lebanon Mountains, several perpetual dispute. Thus, any action in rockets were launched—some that area may be considered "unique." successfully and others unsuccessfully— toward Israel from two locations in Considering that neither State vs. State south Lebanon. The decrepit rockets (e.g., LAF vs. IDF) nor State vs. non- launched from a region that borders State (IDF vs. Hezbollah) confrontations Israel (which falls under the auspices represented any serious threat to the of UNSCR 1701) caused only a trivial stability of Lebanon's borders, it remains amount of damage. However, those quite improbable that a “spoiling nearly inert weapons drew more high attack” would be any more dangerous profile expressions of condemnation than a conventional attack. However, and concern than did the hundreds spoiling attacks that occur along the of rockets exchanged along the Lebanese-Israeli borders are interesting "other" border. The point, of course, is because of what they represent to not to criticize the scope of one act Lebanon from a domestic rather than a compared to another. Instead, the regional security perspective. issue rests with the interplay between the two episodes mentioned, and that In the midst of the conflict between all somehow occurred in Lebanon. Gaza and Israel, another "mini war" was underway on the other side of On July 11, the fourth day of the 2014 Lebanon. Specifically, fighting on the Gaza-Israel conflict, several rockets Qalamoun front along the Lebanese- were fired from the outskirts of the Syrian border erupted once again. Lebanese village of al-Mary, which, While Hezbollah's military operations in since it is near Hasbiya, essentially faces Qalamoun (referred to in its literature Israel.12 A few hours earlier, an attempt as “cleansing operations”) should to launch another rocket caused in have been almost imperceptible an explosion that injured the individual compared to its dustups with Israel, they involved. An LAF-run investigation galvanized the attention of Lebanon's disclosed that Hussein Atwi had been Shia community. In contrast to those admitted to a hospital and that he was chance engagements, Hezbollah's responsible for the abortive launch of losses at Qalamoun approached those the weapon. As an individual, Atwi's it suffered during the al-Quseir battles. personal history is interesting. A long- Some estimates held that during the time member of Jamaa Islamiyya first 72 hours of fighting (which began (the Lebanese branch of the Muslim the night of July 13/14), at least 20 Brotherhood), Atwi accompanied the Hezbollah members were killed—and organization’s "al-Fajr" military branch other sources doubled that figure. The as it fought alongside Hezbollah in the number of wounded and captured 2006 war.13 Notably, the organization’s escaped estimates…. single MP stressed that it played no

12 https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/archive/558254-hussein-atwi-released-on-bail 13 http://english.al-akhbar.com/node/20732 and http://www.jamestown.org/single/?tx_ttnews%5Btt_ news%5D=864#.Vc2oT1Oqqko

22 23 part in launching the rockets toward credentials, but also its involvement Israel.14 Atwi is also an academic, in a foreign war which, demonstrably, who holds a PhD from al-Da’awa has brought unnecessary danger to University, where he also worked Lebanon—especially in Hezbollah's as a professor.15 Atwi also became own population centers.16 a problematic presence for the Lebanese government and Hezbollah. Hussein Atwi was freed shortly after his Left unaddressed, Atwi's ineffectual apprehension. The Lebanese-Israeli actions might have encouraged similar border has remained relatively quiet attempts able to produce an Israeli since then, and the fanfare prompted response, an outcome that neither the by Atwi's actions eventually died government (essentially defenseless down. Thus, both parties achieved the against the IDF) nor Hezbollah (which desired outcome. Yet with Hezbollah was already heavily engaged in still mired in the Syrian conflict and Syria) could afford. Alternatively, relations with Israel showing no if the Lebanese government had improvement, the conditions are still blatantly condemned the act and/ ripe for other would-be resistance or attempted to punish Atwi severely, "fighters" to copycat Atwi's actions. Hezbollah would have been found guilty by association, as Atwi’s Another example of what may be actions were undeniably motivated considered a spoiling action requires by its resistance ideology. In reality, the review of an incident that took Lebanon's government has endorsed place along the Lebanese-Israeli wholeheartedly Hezbollah’s operations border near the end of 2013. On and philosophy of resistance. December 15, 2013, an IDF soldier Therefore, any attempt to halt similar was killed by an LAF counterpart attacks (presumably the preferred near Naqoura. Some media outlets option) would leave it open to reported that the incident happened accusations of hypocrisy. as Israeli soldiers attempted to cross the border. As an IDF spokesman In general, Hezbollah remained explained, however, "shots were exceptionally tight-lipped about fired at a civilian vehicle traveling the rocket launches, as most other along the Israel-Lebanon border." responses would have contradicted a Of note, the IDF also explained that central tenet of its ideology (which is it responded by firing into Lebanon. largely responsible for its legitimacy in Although the LAF asserted that the Lebanon, especially among the non- attack had been committed by a Shia population). Further, the fact that lone, rogue soldier, the summary Atwi apparently tried to "support the it provided seemed unconvincing people of Gaza" simply highlighted for two reasons. First, the incident Hezbollah’s lack of action in the occurred almost simultaneously with same area—which caused others the double suicide bombings of two to question not only its resistance LAF checkpoints near Saida. Second,

14 http://en.annahar.com/article/150442-odd-couple-netted-for-southern-lebanon-rocket-attacks-into- israel 15 http://english.al-akhbar.com/node/20732 16 Ibid.

24 25 the "rogue" soldier was from Akkar, Palestinian guerillas to transfer a Sunni area, which makes it likely arms and combatants from that he had been "brainwashed" by Syria to Lebanon, and to launch Islamist groups. Finally, the matter guerilla attacks against Israel. was settled by the two sides involved, Now, the region has assumed neither of which attempted to this role again, only this time blow the incident out of proportion. in the opposite direction. The Additionally, no association can be village of Shebaa has sheltered found, for instance, between that thousands of Syrian refugees and soldier's actions and the defection functioned as a territorial bridge of LAF soldiers from predominantly to transfer arms and combatants Sunni areas in the north during and to opposition groups operating after the Battle of Orsal (August 2014). in southern Syria. The close Nevertheless, connecting the dots proximity to Israeli-controlled between these incidents vis-à-vis Golan Heights makes this cross- Lebanon's extant sectarian tensions is border activity particularly certainly a tempting endeavor. dangerous, and Israel has already noted that any spillage Aside from the incidents that occurred to its territory would be answered along the southern border, Israel in full force.17 violated Lebanese airspace a number of times throughout the year. In fact, Of course, since Islamist activity is the practice became so common that steadily becoming more pronounced it rarely attracted media attention. in this area, the reasons behind Many of those violations were Israel's concerns become somewhat believed to have been associated clear. Likewise, efforts by Israel and with Israel's monitoring of the situation Hezbollah to minimize the number in Syria and the Lebanese-Syrian- of incidents taking place along the Israeli tri-border region. Of note, southern border also become more the latter area is steadily gaining understandable. attention because of rebel victories over the Syrian army. According to The Druze Factor Asher Kaufmann of the International While the spoiling attacks mentioned Relations and Security Network: above highlight the potential risks to the Sunni community in south The tri-border region has Lebanon, the true picture of the always been a center of cross- situation is incomplete without border activities, particularly mentioning another “minority” in in times of conflict, because Lebanon's southeastern corner, of its rugged topography which hosts the intersection of the and strategic location. From Lebanese-Syrian-Israeli borders. The the late 1960s to 1982, for Druze community represents an example, the Arqub region–then exceptionally complex "wildcard" in nicknamed "Fatahland"–was this situation, as it has a presence in a crucial territorial bridge for each of these three countries. To this

17 http://isnblog.ethz.ch/security/border-of-syria-israel-lebanon-shows-signs-of-war#respond

24 25 day, the Druze take an unrelenting warned that the Druze needed to and unequivocal attitude toward their maintain a stable relationship with their "survival" in each of those areas. Sunni neighbors and avoid clashes with Syrian refugees.22,23 Following the It should come as no surprise that the deadly skirmishes of November 2014, conflict in Syria and the rise of radical however, he asked Syrian Druze to Islamist elements (which consider the join the anti-Assad revolution—even Shia, Druze and Alawi to be as well though the second most respected outside the "fold" of Islam as are those Druze leader in Lebanon, Prince who practice other religions) have Talal Arslan warned the Druze that challenged the relationship the Syrian they would "pay the price" for their Druze community has with its Sunni involvement in the Syrian revolution.24,25 neighborhood. That much became clear during a series of “appeasement Of course, it is not the intent of this visits” Druze leader Walid Jumblatt document to examine closely the made to his constituency there, in details of cross-border incidents and which he exhorted them to revive associated Druze-Sunni issues. At the their historical Muslim "membership." same time, this chapter would not be Based on that entreaty, most complete if it failed to identify that Druze now practice a strategy of "situation" as being a potential hotbed "disengagement," thus remaining for violent developments. neutral and disassociated from the conflict in Syria.18,19,20 Nevertheless, 22 • Syrian Druze pro-regime fighters were killed in an ambush on November 9, In summary, the information contained 2014, an attack conducted by Syrian herein suggests that while the rebels in Arna on the Syrian side of Lebanese-Syrian border is likely to Mount Hermon (near the border with remain not only a sprawling battlefield Lebanon’s Shebaa and Rashaya). but also an epicenter of instability, the Overall, however, the Druze response border Lebanon shares with Israel is was relatively muted.21 In fact, in late very likely to maintain its status quo. In September 2014, Jumblatt, the most fact, while the Lebanese-Syrian border influential Druze leader in Lebanon, is becoming increasingly domestically

18 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2015/Jan-22/284915-israeli-towns-in-panic-over- hezbollah-reprisal.ashx 19 http://english.al-akhbar.com/node/22313 20 http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/11/09/us-mideast-crisis-lebanon-idUSKBN0IT07720141109 21 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/Life/Lubnan/2014/Nov-09/276988-lebanons-druze-community-fearful- as-syrias-war-moves-closer.ashx?utm_source=Magnet&utm_medium=Entity%20page&utm_ campaign=Magnet%20tools 22 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Nov-11/277180-jumblatt-urges-syrias- druze-to-join-anti-assad-rebels.ashx?utm_source=Magnet&utm_medium=Entity%20page&utm_ campaign=Magnet%20tools 23 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Sep-21/271388-jumblatt-not-every-syrian- refugee-is-a-terrorist.ashx 24 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Sep-22/271466-jumblatt-tells-druze-they- must-embrace-muslim-unity.ashx 25 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Nov-11/277180-jumblatt-urges-syrias- druze-to-join-anti-assad-rebels.ashx?utm_source=Magnet&utm_medium=Entity%20page&utm_ campaign=Magnet%20tools

26 27 oriented, the "other" border is also border seems very much to separate undergoing a pronounced shift. Israel from Iran. Consequently, it is less While that demarcation line once apt than ever to reflect the desires or separated Lebanon and Israel, actions of the Lebanese State and/or only one of the two "neighbors" has those of the country's non-State actor, remained constant. Today, that Hezbollah.

26 27 Blank Page A Chronology of Major Border Incidents

2013 January 4 » Syrian warplanes cross into Lebanese airspace over the border village of Machta al-Helou in Akkar to attack the Krak des Chevaliers area inside Syria. [NORTH] 21 » A strike launched from within Syria hits » An attack launched from within Syria strikes near the border villages of Hekr Janin and al- near Menjez (Akkar). [NORTH] Qochloq (Akkar). [NORTH] 23 18 » The border villages of Hekr Janin, al- » Syrian warplanes attack two trucks and a Qochloq and Amar al-Bikat are hit by Syrian bulldozer on the outskirts of Orsal. [EAST] missiles and heavy weapons. [NORTH]

Number of Incidents by Border / January 2013 Southern Border Northern Border Eastern Border 0 4 1

February 1 » Several border villages in Akkar are struck by 17 Syrian munitions. [NORTH] » The Lebanese (Shia) village of al-Qasr is struck twice with munitions fired by Syrian 4 rebels. [EAST] » The border villages of Hekr Janin, an-Noura and Dabbabiyeh are attacked 13 times by 19 Syrian munitions. [NORTH] » Munitions launched by Syrian rebels strike twice in Hermel. [EAST] 12 » Arida residents block the border crossing » The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) step up patrols between Lebanon and Syria to protest nightly near Shebaa Farms. [SOUTH] attacks against their homes. [NORTH]

14 21 » Syrian forces drive Lebanese citizens away » The sounds of armed conflict are heard from the border area of Mashari’ al-Qaa. [EAST] outside Deir al-Ashayer and Janta. [EAST]

PB 29 22 » Many Arida residents flee after being targeted regularly from within Syria. [NORTH]

» For the third night, munitions from Syria hit the 25 Akkari border villages of al-Abboudiye, an- » Two people are killed and two others are Noura, Dabbabiyeh and Arida. [NORTH] injured in Wadi Khaled by snipers and bombs from Syria. [NORTH] 24 » A weapon launched by Syrian rebels 26 strikes (Shia) al-Qasr in Hermel but fails to » Two weapons launched from within Syria explode. [EAST] strike an-Noura (Akkar). [NORTH]

Number of Incidents by Border / February 2013 Southern Border Northern Border Eastern Border 1 7 5

March » The IDF reinforces its presence near Shebaa 2 Farms but halts road construction close to » Syrian regime munitions strike Machta Wazzani. [SOUTH] Hammoud. [NORTH] 17 7 » Munitions launched from within Syria strike the » Syrian regime engineers work on military outskirts of several Akkari border villages. [NORTH] roads near the border in Akkar. [NORTH] 18 » IDF engineers continue work on a road near » Lebanese border villages in Wadi Khaled Wazzani. [SOUTH] and Akkar are hit by Syrian munitions and heavy machine gun fire.[NORTH] 11 » Syrian regime munitions hit the Akkari » Syrian warplanes attack the Orsal villages of Dabbabiyeh and Menjez. [NORTH] countryside. [EAST] » In preparation for a large-scale exercise in 12 » A Lebanese civilian from Arida is wounded the Golan-Wazzani area, the IDF builds sand barriers on the east bank of the river and by gunfire from Syria.[NORTH] observation posts on Wazzani Heights. [SOUTH] 13 » Several different types of munitions 20 fired from within Syria strike the Akkari villages » Syrian rebels conduct an attack just outside of Abboudiye, Hekr Janin and the border village of al-Qasr. [EAST] an-Noura. [NORTH] » Syrian aircraft fire at Wadi al-Kheil and Wadi Oweine near Orsal, but no injuries are 14 reported. [EAST] » Some 25 tank-carrying trucks unload their M113s near Israeli positions in the eastern » The (Shia) region of Sahlat al-Mayy in sector of the Lebanese/Israeli border. [SOUTH] Hermel is attacked. [EAST] » IDF reinforcements arrive near 15 Wazzani. [SOUTH] » Anti-aircraft artillery fired from within Syria hits the Akkari villages of Abboudiyeh, an-Noura, 21 Hekr Janin and al-Qochloq, causing several » IDF warplanes roam over the northern side injuries. [NORTH] of the Golan Heights and Shebaa Farms. Israeli forces establish sand barriers along the 16 border with Lebanon. [SOUTH] » A resident of al-Qochloq is injured by Syrian munitions. [NORTH] » Following an attack on Hermel's Sahlet

30 31 el-Mayy, the village mayor claims the projectiles had been launched by Syrian rebels in al-Quseir. [EAST]

22 » Syrian warplanes attack several positions along the Lebanese-Syrian border near the outskirts of Orsal. [EAST]

23 » Assad regime positions opposite Hekr Janin 29 and Abboudiyeh are fortified when a huge » A fisherman is injured after being shot by crane arrives into position to move heavy Syrian sailors off the coast of Arida in North containers. Afterward, the site is reinforced with Lebanon. Electrical power is lost in an-Noura heavy weapons and tanks. [NORTH] after the town was struck by munitions launched from Syria. [NORTH] 25 » Syrian warplanes are seen over the 30 northern borders. [NORTH] » Several Akkari border villages are attacked with munitions launched from 27 within Syria. [NORTH] » Syrian munitions and heavy machine gun fire strike Lebanon's northern and 31 northeastern borders, from Arida to Nabi » Syrian munitions struck the outskirts of Berri point in Akkar. [NORTH] several Akkari border villages. [NORTH]

Number of Incidents by Border / March 2013 Southern Border Northern Border Eastern Border 6 15 6

April 11 3 » Syrian munitions explode between Torbol » The IDF constructs military roads near and al-Fourzol. [EAST] Wazzani. [SOUTH] 14 4 » The border area of Sahlat al-Mayy (Hermel) » Syrian helicopters attack the Orsal is attacked three times with explosive countryside. [EAST] munitions. [EAST]

8 15 » Several Akkari border villages are attacked Two people are killed and several others with Syrian munitions. [NORTH] injured in (Shia) al-Qasr and Hawsh es-Sayyed Ali. The shelling, probably by Syrian rebels, 9 forced many residents to flee the area. [EAST] » When the IDF begins pruning trees at Odaysse, the LAF simultaneously increases its 16 alert status. A previous (2010) tree-trimming » The northern side of (Shia) al-Qasr (Hermel) mission by the IDF in the same area resulted in a is attacked but no injuries are reported. bloody incident that claimed the lives of several Nevertheless, the death toll from the recent Lebanese and Israeli servicemen. [SOUTH] attacks in al-Qasr and Hawsh es-Sayyed stands at four. [EAST] 10 » Munitions launched from within Syria hit 21 Dabbabiyeh. [NORTH] » The (Shia) town of Hermel is shelled amidst

30 31 threats that the ongoing battle in the Syrian town of al-Quseir will surge into Lebanon. [EAST]

» Israeli warplanes conduct out mock airstrikes over Khiam, Marjaayoun and Nabatieh. [SOUTH] 27 » The outskirts of the Akkari villages of an- 24 Noura, Dabbabiyeh and al-Fraidis are attacked » Hermel is attacked twice. [EAST] with large munitions. [NORTH]

26 30 » Hezbollah distributes leaflets in Hermel asking » A Syrian woman is wounded during an residents to stay in their homes. [EAST] attack in the Mashari’ al-Qaa. The munitions used were launched from within Syria. [EAST]

Number of Incidents by Border / April 2013 Southern Border Northern Border Eastern Border 3 3 9

May 1 » Munitions fired from Syria strike the outskirts of 10 » The entrance to Hermel is shelled. [EAST] al-Qasr (Hermel). [EAST]

» Four Israeli F-16s fly surveillance missions over 12 the eastern parts of south Lebanon. They later » Hermel is attacked with large munitions. [EAST] stage mock raids near Shebaa. [SOUTH] » Two men were injured in al-Qasr when two 3 munitions hit near the village. [EAST] » Munitions fired from al-Quseir (Syria) strike 13 near Qanafez (Hermel). [EAST] » An attack in an al-Qasr border town injures a 4 Syrian woman and a Lebanese citizen. [EAST] » Pro-Assad militia troops enter Lebanese territory near Qaa, set fire to several buildings 14 and threaten to destroy any homes used by » The outskirts of al-Qaa are attacked with large-scale munitions. [EAST] rebels. [EAST]

» Following several days of calm, the shelling 15 of Akkari border villages resumes. [NORTH] » More attacks hit near al-Qaa. [EAST] » An IDF patrol attempts to arrest a shepherd at Shebaa. [SOUTH] 16 » The Israeli border is on high alert following the 5 commemoration of “an-Nakba Day.” [SOUTH] » Munitions launched from within Syria hit near an-Noura (Akkar). [NORTH] 19 » Maarboun (Bekaa) is shelled twice. [EAST]

9 » Areas in Hermel suffer eight attacks. [EAST] » Munitions launched from within Syria strike » Syrian warplanes appear over Wadi Shawaghir (Hermel). [EAST] Khaled. [NORTH] » Israeli soldiers at the Kfar Kila point along the Lebanese-Israeli border suddenly go to high 21 alert. [SOUTH] » Eight people are injured when several » Munitions launched from within Syria hit near missiles hit the Akroum Mountain and Wadi the public hospital in Hermel. [EAST] Khaled areas. [NORTH]

32 33 » IDF soldiers near al-Ghajar crossed the 28 technical fence. [SOUTH] » Munitions fired toward Israel from Marjaayoun raise alert levels in the LAF and 22 IDF. [SOUTH] » Elements of the Syrian army penetrate 50 » Three LAF soldiers are killed in the early meters into Akroum Mountain and burn crops morning hours after their position on the tended by Syrians and Lebanese. [NORTH] outskirts of Orsal is attacked. [EAST]

» Syrian attacks strike the outskirts of the Akkari » Hermel suffers more attacks. [EAST] border villages of Hekr Janin, Abboudiyeh and al-Qochloq. No injuries are reported. [NORTH] 29 » Attacks in Hermel wound five more 24 people. [EAST] » An LAF patrol operating near the border » Akkar is attacked with three rocket- point of Nabi Beri (Akkar) takes fire from within propelled grenades. [NORTH] Syria but no injuries are reported. [NORTH]

» A Syrian helicopter attacks near Orsal. [EAST] 30 » The General Security checkpoint near al-Qaa is attacked, but no injuries are 26 reported. [EAST] » Al-Marah (Hermel) is attacked twice but no injuries are reported. [EAST] » Weapons fired from within Syria hit several Akroum Mountain villages. [NORTH]

27 » Shelling in Hermel injures two women. [EAST] » The LAF announces that one woman is killed and two others are injured when Hermel is 31 attacked. [EAST] » Several points along Wadi Khaled are » Two Lebanese farmers escape after attacked, as is the area near Akroum Mountain (Akkar). [NORTH] being apprehended by Syrian troops in Hnaider. [NORTH] » The area near al-Qaa is attacked. [EAST]

Number of Incidents by Border / May 2013 Southern Border Northern Border Eastern Border 6 11 22

June 5 1 » A Syrian helicopter attacks Kherbet Daoud » More attacks hit Wadi Khaled and the near Orsal. [EAST] Akroum Mountains. [NORTH] » Munitions from Syria hit the home of a Lebanese citizen in Akroum but cause no » Attacks target (Shia) Nabi Chit, Nasseriyye, injuries. [NORTH] Brital and Nahle (North Bekaa). [EAST] » Munitions from Syria strike Baalbek. [EAST] 2 6 » Several Hermel neighborhoods are attacked, » Weapons from Syria strike but no injuries are reported. [EAST] al-Abboudiyyeh. [NORTH] » An IDF patrol crosses the technical fence near » Syrian warplanes fly low-level missions the Wazzani River. [SOUTH] above Orsal. [EAST]

3 » Munitions from Syria strike a number of villages in Akkar and Wadi Khaled. [NORTH] » Hermel is hit by three more attacks. [EAST]

» Munitions strike Akroum and Wadi 9 Khaled. [NORTH] » An orchard is burned in the Akkari village

32 33 of Amar al-Bikat following an attack launched from within Syria. [NORTH]

10 » Pro-Assad forces rake the Akkar Menjez- Abboudiyyeh highway with heavy machine 14 gun fire. The attack causes fires in some » Four projectiles strike Shia villages in north agricultural areas of Arida. [NORTH] Bekaa. [EAST] 11 16 » Seven explosions rock al-Marj (Hermel) » Munitions from Syria injure two Lebanese injuring four people. [EAST] farmers in the Akkari village of al-Arme » IDF engineers work on a military road near causing a fire in the wheat crops.[NORTH] Wazzani. [SOUTH] 17 12 » IDF soldiers fire warning shots at a » One person was killed when a Syrian Lebanese citizen near Wazzani. [SOUTH] helicopter attacks an Orsal neighborhood. [EAST] » Two projectiles hit the (Shia) North Bekaa » Six explosions occur in Hermel residential villages of Brital and Taibe but cause no neighborhoods near an LAF barracks. Four injuries. [EAST] people are injured and several homes are damaged. An orchard is burned because of 21 the attack. [EAST] » The IDF repositions elements near Wazzani and al-Ghajar. [SOUTH] 13 » IDF soldiers cross the technical fence, and a 22 bulldozer shuttles Israeli fortification materials at » The Akkari village of Dabbabiyeh is the Abbassiyeh border point. [SOUTH] shelled. [NORTH]

Number of Incidents by Border / June 2013 Southern Border Northern Border Eastern Border 5 9 11

July 9 18 » Two explosions occur in Hermel. [EAST] » A Syrian warplane attacks an area near » A shepherd is arrested by the IDF near Orsal but causes no injuries. [EAST] Shebaa. [SOUTH] 20 10 » Munitions from Syria strike the Akkari » Seven students are injured while playing village of Kawashra. A woman is wounded with unexploded munitions they discover in the and the area suffers significant material town of Bani Sakhr in Wadi Khaled. [NORTH] damage. [NORTH]

13 26 » The IDF crosses the technical fence in » IDF soldiers fire flares over the village of Wazzani twice and eventually reaches the Rmaich. Military vehicles are seen moving on eastern riverbank. [SOUTH] the Israeli side of the border. [SOUTH]

Number of Incidents by Border / July 2013 Southern Border Northern Border Eastern Border 3 2 2

34 35 August 2 » Munitions from Syria strike farms near Mashari’ al-Qaa. [EAST]

5 » A Syrian helicopter attacks targets near Orsal. [EAST]

8 23 » Two devices explode near the Israeli- » More than 20 homes in al-Moukaylbe are damaged by munitions fired from within Lebanese border fence as IDF soldiers cross into Syria. [NORTH] Lebanese territory. [SOUTH] » The IDF conducts exercises along the 14 Lebanese-Syrian border near Shebaa. [SOUTH] » A Syrian refugee is arrested in the neighborhood of Shebaa by the IDF. [SOUTH] 24 » The IDF raids Naameh (south of Beirut), which 18 prompts the Lebanese to complain to the » Hermel and al-Qaa are attacked but no Security Council. [SOUTH] casualties are reported. [EAST] 31 22 » The Syrian navy fires on two Lebanese vessels » IDF soldiers deploy to the Wazzani border crewed by eight fishermen off the coast of area and remain there for about three Arida. A Lebanese vessel is driven toward Syrian hours. [SOUTH] waters. [NORTH]

Number of Incidents by Border / August 2013 Southern Border Northern Border Eastern Border 5 2 3

September 14 » Three munitions explode outside (Shia) Laboue causing one injury and a large fire.[EAST]

16 » Ordnance launched from within Syria strikes near the Akkari villages of Hekr Janin, Amar al- Bikat and al-Qochloq. [NORTH]

20 26 » The northern border villages in Akkar are » Ordnance launched from within Syria strikes taken under fire from within Syria.[NORTH] the Akkari village of Bani Sakhr. [NORTH]

23 28 » Akkari border villages are again taken under » Munitions from Syria explode near several fire.[NORTH] villages in Akkar. [NORTH]

Number of Incidents by Border / September 2013 Southern Border Northern Border Eastern Border 0 5 1

34 35 October 2 » Ordnance from Syria strikes several points in Wadi Khaled. [NORTH]

4 15 » Akkar’s Hekr Janin is attacked by munitions » Ordnance from Syria strikes the Akkari village launched from Syria. [NORTH] of Charbila. [NORTH]

7 19 » Syrian helicopters attack Wadi Humayyed » Abboudiyeh is taken under fire from within near Orsal. [EAST] Syria. [NORTH]

9 21 » A Syrian helicopter attacks an ambulance at » Four explosions are heard in Hermel but no Wadi Humayyed (Orsal). [EAST] one is injured. [EAST]

14 24 » Units of the Syrian army enter Lebanon near » Several Akkari villages are taken under fire Mashari’ al-Qaa and destroy a house. [EAST] from within Syria. [NORTH]

Number of Incidents by Border / October 2013 Southern Border Northern Border Eastern Border 0 5 4

November 10 » Several Akkari villages are hit by projectiles launched from within Syria. [NORTH]

11 » Several Akkari villages are hit by ordnance from Syria. [NORTH]

14 » Munitions from Syria strike Baalbek, and » The Wadi Khaled village of Bani Sakhr is hit by ordnance launched from within Syria. [NORTH] Syrian forces raid Orsal. [EAST]

18 20 » Munitions launched from Syria strike the » A Syrian raid near Orsal kills two members border villages of Abboudiyeh, an-Noura of the Houjeiri family. [EAST] and Wadi al-Hor, and sniper fire blocks the » Several Akkari villages are hit by Abboudiyyeh Highway. [NORTH] projectiles launched from Syria. [NORTH] 21 19 » The Akkari villages of an-Noura and » A Syrian warplane attacks Wadi al-Hosn. Dabbabiyeh are hit by projectiles launched (Orsal). [EAST] from Syria. [NORTH]

Number of Incidents by Border / November 2013 Southern Border Northern Border Eastern Border 0 5 3

36 37 December 21 5 » UNIFIL notifies the Lebanese authorities of » Ordnance from Syria strikes outside the Israel's intent to trim a tree that fell across the Akkari villages of Dabbabiyeh, an-Noura, Hekr border fence during the last storm. The debris is [SOUTH] Janin, al-Arma and al-Qochloq. [NORTH] impeding sensors mounted on the fence.

12 23 » Several Akkari border villages are attacked » Clashes occur between Hezbollah and the Syrian opposition outside Nahle, North by projectiles. [NORTH] Bekaa. [EAST] 13 » Information emerges that an IDF patrol was 25 fired on near Metula and that the IDF returned » A fire started in Israel spreads into Lebanon fire. Lebanese security sources state that the and destroys 50 perennial olive trees. [SOUTH] exchange of fire was not caused by anything that might have happened on the Lebanese 28 side—not even because of hunters (hunting is » An Israeli spy camera and two monitoring forbidden, especially near the borders and the devices are discovered outside Rmaich. [SOUTH] Blue Line). [SOUTH] 30 16 » A Syrian helicopter attacks Kherbet Daoud » Syrian ordnance strikes several Akkari (Orsal), and the LAF responds. [EAST] villages. [NORTH] » Ordnance launched from Syria hits near Khalsa and Ouwaynat (Akkar). [NORTH] 17 » Four rockets are launched from the vicinity » Hermel and its environs, including a military of Rashaya al-Foukhar. Two hit inside Lebanese barracks, are hit by munitions. The attacks injure territory while two others strike Israeli border several LAF soldiers. [EAST] settlements. The LAF and the government are accused of the attack. [SOUTH] 18 » Attacks launched from within Syria hit Akkari » For the first time ever, LAF anti-aircraft artillery villages. [NORTH] fires at Syrian helicopters over Orsal.[EAST]

Number of Incidents by Border / December 2013 Southern Border Northern Border Eastern Border 5 5 4

2014 January on the hundreds of tents scattered throughout 2 the areas of Ras Baalbek and Qaa. [EAST] » Heavy clashes occur between combined Syrian regime/Hezbollah forces and the 15 opposition in the Syrian villages adjacent to » Eight IDF soldiers penetrate 20 meters beyond the technical fence in Mays al-Jabal the Lebanese-Syrian borders (including Ras and then search the area for 30 minutes before Baalbek, Orsal and Qaa (North Bekaa)). [EAST] withdrawing. The incident prompts UNIFIL to redeploy elements in the region. [SOUTH] 10 » The LAF expands its presence by 17 establishing new security belts near Qaa to » Some 20 projectiles hit Orsal. Seven people help control Lebanon's eastern borders. [EAST] are killed when their home is destroyed, and » Weekly raids conducted by the LAF focus 15 others are injured. [EAST]

36 37 22 28 » A projectile fired from a Syrian army tank » Syrian air force aircraft fire into the Mashari’ strikes a house in Danke, Akkar but does not al-Qaa area. [EAST] explode. All six family members survive. [NORTH] 30 24 » One 44-year-old Syrian worker is killed and » Three projectiles hit neighborhoods within another wounded when shots are fired from Syria Hermel. [EAST] into a cement factory in Wadi Khaled. [NORTH]

Number of Incidents by Border / January 2014 Southern Border Northern Border Eastern Border 1 2 6

February 5 » More than 30 explosions caused by ordnance launched from Syria strike several the (Shia) villages of Bazzaliyyeh and Harbata Akkari villages. [NORTH] (North Bekaa). No casualties are reported. [EAST] » An Israeli reconnaissance plane crashes near 6 Mays al-Jabal, between the Blue Line and the » Tensions remain high after ordnance fired technical fence. While no explanation is given from within Syria hits al-Qochloq, an-Noura and for the crash, a number of IDF soldiers cross the Fraidis. [NORTH] fence line to retrieve the debris. [SOUTH]

10 21 » A Syrian air force aircraft attacks the Orsal » Two explosions rock the village of as- countryside. [EAST] Sowwaniyeh (North Bekaa), but neither cause any injuries. After an LAF patrol investigates the » Eight people are killed and 15 injured when crater, a security representative announces ordnance hits the village of Orsal. Syrian that the ordnance had been launched from warplanes attack the eastern outskirts of within Syria. [EAST] Orsal. [EAST] 28 18 » Three explosions rock the area in and around » Seven rocket-propelled grenades strike Brital. [EAST]

Number of Incidents by Border / February 2014 Southern Border Northern Border Eastern Border 1 2 5

March releases a thick, white smokescreen in an 4 attempt to obscure visibility of some type of » A Syrian helicopter attacks the Orsal armored vehicle. That vehicle ultimately enters countryside. [EAST] the border gate adjacent to Kfar Kila, and a high alert is observed on the opposite side of the » Three mortar rounds fired from within Syria hit Israeli border. [SOUTH] Laboue (North Bekaa). In protest, some local citizens block the Orsal-Laboue road. [EAST] 5 » An armored military bulldozer moving along » Syrian warplanes launch a number of attacks the border between Kfar Kila and Odaisse outside Orsal. [EAST]

38 39 » Munitions fired from within Syria hit the outskirts of Janta and Nabi Chit but cause no damage. [EAST]

» An IDF spokesperson says its soldiers fired » Several projectiles strike Laboue, and three on and hit two Hezbollah members who were more pieces of ordnance hit the area outside preparing an explosive device near the Israeli- there and Nabi Osman. [EAST] Syrian border. [SOUTH] 20 7 » As scores of Syrians try to flee the fighting on » Four rocket-propelled grenades fired from the Syrian side of the border by crossing the within Syria strike between (Shia) Laboue and Nahr al-Kabeer River, they are fired upon from Nabi Osman (North Bekaa) damaging homes the Syrian side. Three Lebanese and 51 Syrians and cars. [EAST] are injured. [NORTH] » A Syrian helicopter attacks the Orsal » Heavy gunfire from Syria strikes villages along countryside. [EAST] the Lebanese-Syrian border area of Wadi Khaled. Syrian warplanes fly over the northern 9 Lebanese-Syrian border area. [NORTH] » A number of munitions fired from within Syria strike the outskirts of Hermel near the public 21 hospital. The Abdalla Azzam Brigades tweet » Clashes in Krak des Chevaliers (Syria) result responsibility for the attack in collaboration with in munitions hitting border villages near Wadi an-Nusra front. [EAST] Khaled. [NORTH] » The IDF launches a balloon near Metula 11 (adjacent to Kfar Kila), which remains aloft » Three explosions rock (Shia) Nabi Chit and for three hours. Military patrols scour the two more hit the village orchards. [EAST] roads adjacent to the border, and a possible command and control vehicle is spotted behind 14 a military bulldozer (see 4 March). [SOUTH] » A bomb explodes in the path of an IDF patrol in the Shebaa Farms area. In response, 22 Israeli artillery fires dozens of rounds. Artillery » Syrian warplanes attack the Orsal fire also targets Owaida between Kfar Kila and countryside. [EAST] Odaisse. Israeli news reports that the response was intended to prevent the capture of IDF 25 soldiers. [SOUTH] » The outskirts of (Shia) Haour Taala and Brital are hit by projectiles. [EAST] 15 » Ordnance fired from Syria hits Nabi Osman 26 and Laboue. The attack kills a 16-year-old from » An IDF patrol of 13 soldiers and military Nabi Osman, injures four other people and working dogs crosses the Blue Line in Khallet causes substantial material damage. [EAST] Warde (Shebaa Farms area). The patrol penetrates 20 meters inside Lebanon, takes a 16 Hezbollah flag and then departs.[SOUTH] » Syrian warplanes conduct several attacks outside Orsal. [EAST] 27 » An LAF patrol fires at a pickup truck headed » Five people are injured after Syrian warplanes toward Lebanon (outside Orsal) from Syrian attack the Orsal countryside. [EAST] territory and forces it to return. [EAST] 31 17 » A driverless, Jeep-sized military utility vehicle » LAF positions in the Orsal countryside are hit equipped with antennas patrols near the by sniper fire.[EAST] Lebanese border. [SOUTH]

Number of Incidents by Border / March 2014 Southern Border Northern Border Eastern Border 6 3 16

38 39 April Israeli patrol in the Shebaa Farms area earlier in 1 the month. That attack was in response to an IDF » A 17-year-old from Wadi Kahled is shot by attack against a Hezbollah position in Janta last Syrian soldiers manning one of the border February. [SOUTH] positions near the Lebanese side of the Nahr al- Kabeer River. [NORTH] 14 » Three mortar rounds explode in Laboue. [EAST] 2 » Three Syrian projectiles hit Laboue (Northern 17 Bekaa) killing a Syrian refugee and injuring » A 12-man IDF patrol penetrates 200 meters another. [EAST] into the contested Shebaa Farms area. Soldiers apprehend two shepherds and 3 another man. [SOUTH] » For the second time in three days, the IDF deploys a driverless vehicle equipped with 19 antennas (it had been parked along the » An IDF unit fires at a shepherd from Kfar Kila. border road between Kfar Kila and Odaisse). The man had been working in a field between The vehicle's presence alerts the LAF and Kfar Kila and al-Khiam with members of his UNIFIL. [SOUTH] family. No injuries are reported. [SOUTH]

4 23 » Two projectiles strike Laboue but cause no » Four Syrian rocket-propelled grenades injuries. An unknown group calling itself “Free explode near Brital. [EAST] Sunni Brigades of Baalbek” claims responsibility » Three projectiles hit between Laboue and and declares that the attack was in response Nabi Osman in north Bekaa. The “Free Sunni to LAF actions against Tripoli residents at Brigades of Baalbek” claim responsibility on Hezbollah's behest. [EAST] Twitter. [EAST]

6 25 » An LAF patrol clashes with a Syrian rebel » After several weeks of relative calm, Hermel is group outside Orsal. The five-member group was attacked with rocket-propelled grenades. [EAST] trying to infiltrate into Lebanese territory in a car when it was taken under fire. The patrol arrests » Twenty IDF soldiers cross the fence adjacent four, but the fifth suspect escapes.[EAST] to the Wazzani but depart about two hours later. [SOUTH] 7 » The IDF increases its security measures after 27 Hezbollah Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah » Syrian warplanes attack the Orsal acknowledges responsibility for attacking an countryside. [EAST]

Number of Incidents by Border / April 2014 Southern Border Northern Border Eastern Border 5 1 8

May 7 1 » Syrian ordnance strikes the outskirts of the Shia » A seven-man IDF foot patrol breaches the villages of Brital, Khraibe and Haour Taala. [EAST] Blue Line near Houla-Marjaayoun. In response, the LAF deploys to the region to take defensive 12 measures. [SOUTH] » An IDF Navy gunboat approaches Lebanese territorial waters in Ras an-Naqoura before 4 withdrawing. Patrols are launched after IDF » Hezbollah claims to have foiled an attempt soldiers remove a tree near the Labboune by rebels to infiltrate the Orsal countryside. border (where the August 7, 2013 incident took Heavy clashes ensue. [EAST] place). [SOUTH]

40 41 » IDF warplanes fly over the western and central sectors of the Lebanese border, particularly near Tyr. [SOUTH]

13 » An IDF patrol penetrates beyond the technical fence line south al-Ghajar before it returns to a hill overlooking Wazzani River. [SOUTH] » A 20-man IDF patrol situated at Fatima Gate 15 directs their weapons toward an LAF area. [SOUTH] » IDF and LAF soldiers face off in Ras an- Naqoura. [SOUTH] 26 » Syrian warplanes raid the Wadi Humayyed 17 area outside Orsal. [EAST] » The city of Hermel is hit twice by ordnance » Two pieces of ordnance strike the Laboue- fired from the eastern mountain chain.[EAST] Nabi Osman road. One civilian is injured. [EAST]

18 27 » An IDF bulldozer enters Lebanese territory » A Syrian is seriously injured when a land mine near Labboune before it withdraws to resume explodes. He was entering Lebanon from Syria working between the technical fence and the via an illegal passageway near Dabbabiyeh-an- Blue Line. [SOUTH] Noura. [NORTH] » The Brital countryside is hit by a projectile, and two others impact near Haour Taala. [EAST] 28 » Syrian warplanes again strike the Wadi 20 Humayyed area. [EAST] » The IDF widens and paves the border road opposite Kfar Kila. [SOUTH] 29 » An IDF patrol supported by four military 21 vehicles crosses the technical fence line » A smoke canister is fired toward a shepherd in al-Abbasiyyeh. It travels 25 meters into some 150 meters inside Lebanese territory near Lebanon but withdraws after completing its Kfar Chouba. [SOUTH] reconnaissance. [SOUTH]

Number of Incidents by Border / May 2014 Southern Border Northern Border Eastern Border 10 1 7

June inside Syrian territory, is hit by intense shelling 9 from Assad forces and Hezbollah associated » Rocket-propelled grenades hit Hermel and with the battles raging near Rankous. [EAST] Hawsh es-Sayyed Ali. [EAST] 17 10 » Syrian shelling targets opposition locations » Syrian rebels attack a quarry located some around Tofayl. [EAST] 500 meters from Ras Baalbek and abduct several employees. [EAST] 18 » IDF engineers use a bulldozer to create a new 13 site from which to oversee the Wazzani area and » Syrian warplanes conduct three attacks beyond. [SOUTH] against opposition locations along the eastern Lebanese-Syrian border. [EAST] 19 » An IDF unit penetrates more than 200 14 meters inside Lebanese territory to arrest a » The Lebanese village of Tofayl, an enclave shepherd. [SOUTH]

40 41 25 » Violent clashes involving heavy weapons and 28 mortars take place between opposition forces » Ordnance hits the outskirts of Brital, and three and the Syrian army outside (Shia) Brital. [EAST] more projectiles strike the village itself. [EAST]

Number of Incidents by Border / June 2014 Southern Border Northern Border Eastern Border 2 0 7

July Israel from south Tyr. In response, the IDF fires 4 artillery into the outskirts of Mansouri, Majdal » Syrian warplanes raid opposition forces near Zoun and Zebqin. The LAF and UNIFIL forces Orsal and Qaa. [EAST] deploy to the area to search for the launch points. [SOUTH] 5 » An LAF patrol discovers two rocket-launch » An IDF unit attempts to arrest a shepherd in points south of Tyr. [SOUTH] the Shebaa Farms area, but he eludes them and reports the incident to the LAF. [SOUTH] 15 » Syrian warplanes launch a number of attacks 6 against the outskirts of Orsal. Five residents and » Syrian warplanes attack rebel sites in Wadi some Syrians are injured in the attacks. [EAST] al-Khayl and Rahwa near Orsal. [EAST] » Additional projectiles are fired into Israel from 8 a location south of Tyr, immediately prompting » Projectiles strike the area between al-Ain the LAF to launch patrols and impose a security and Fakha. [EAST] cordon. The IDF fires artillery in response.[SOUTH]

» The LAF and UNIFIL patrol the borders while 11 an Israeli reconnaissance aircraft remains aloft » Ordnance explodes between Taibe and in the vicinity. [SOUTH] Brital. [EAST]

» A projectile is fired toward Israel from Mari, 16 and the IDF responds immediately. [SOUTH] » Brital and Taibe are hit by ordnance. [EAST]

12 » Heavy fighting takes place in the Anti- » In coordination with UNIFIL, the LAF moves Lebanon Mountains between Syrian army- its Eighth Brigade from southern Lebanon to Hezbollah forces and opposition forces. The reinforce security in the northern Bekaa and clashes follow an opposition attack against Lebanese-Syrian border areas. [SOUTH] Hezbollah-controlled areas near Younin. [EAST] » Following a projectile attack launched from » Another projectile is launched from south south Lebanon toward Israel, the IDF's artillery Lebanon toward Israel, but it strikes Khiam in responds. [SOUTH] Lebanon. In response, IDF warplanes launch flares over the international borders. Another 13 projectile strikes Lebanese territory, and IDF » IDF warplanes bomb the outskirts of reconnaissance aircraft continue to overfly the Mansouri-Majdal Zoun in Tyr in response to a area throughout the night. [SOUTH] rocket attack. [SOUTH] 17 14 » The LAF discovers and dismantles two rocket » Heavy fighting between Hezbollah and launchers near Tyr. [SOUTH] Syrian opposition forces along the border in the Anti-Lebanon Mountains kills six Hezbollah 18 members. [EAST] » The LAF and UNIFIL reinforce their coverage » A projectile attack is launched toward along the border and within the villages. [SOUTH]

42 43 19 25 » A woman and her daughters are injured » An armed group attacks an LAF checkpoint when a missile hits their home in Wadi Khaled’s near Orsal. [EAST] Bani Sakhr. [NORTH] » A Syrian aircraft attacks areas near Rahwa (Orsal). [EAST] 20 » Ordnance launched from within Syria strikes » LAF patrols discover three rocket launchers in Lebanon near Wadi Khaled’s Bani Sakhr and Rachaiyya (southeast) that were aimed toward [SOUTH] Machta Hammoud. [NORTH] Israel.

» An LAF patrol discovers a rocket launcher 27 used recently to target Israeli territories. [SOUTH] » Syrian warplanes attack locations near Orsal. [EAST] 22 » An LAF checkpoint between Orsal and Nabi 29 Osman is attacked by Syrian rebel forces that » Four projectiles explode in an area between had infiltrated the area. The soldiers' weapons Laboue and Nabi Osman. [EAST] are taken, as are a set of night binoculars » Syrian warplanes attack the Wadi Ajram and a communications device. An LAF soldier area near Orsal injuring four Syrians. [EAST] suspected of having facilitated the attack defects to the rebels. [EAST] » A 10-man IDF patrol crosses the technical fence outside Shebaa. [SOUTH] » Munitions fired from north Hasbaya toward Israel land near an LAF checkpoint east of 30 Shebaa. [SOUTH] » Two projectiles strike near Hermel. [EAST]

23 » A 15-man IDF patrol chases shepherds near the Saddana Hills (Shebaa Farms) and » Several explosions rock Bazzaliyyeh and apprehends one of them. [SOUTH] Harbata. [EAST]

» The IDF continues installing devices on a 31 column it erected two weeks ago opposite the » The shepherd kidnapped on 30 July is Wazzani. [SOUTH] repatriated by UNIFIL. [SOUTH]

Number of Incidents by Border / July 2014 Southern Border Northern Border Eastern Border 18 2 16

August 19 2 » Lebanese security forces close the Arida » Some 60 projectiles are launched from Syria border passageway. [SOUTH] toward the outskirts of an-Noura, Dabbabiyeh, and Bani Sakher in Wadi Khaled. [NORTH] 20 » An IDF patrol of about 20 soldiers crosses the 4 barbed wire fence outside Rmeich. [SOUTH] » A projectile launched from south Lebanon toward Israel lands instead within 23 Lebanon. [SOUTH] » Assad regime soldiers armed with heavy weapons advance toward Deir al- 7 Achayer and its environs to establish military » Syrian warplanes raid armed groups outside checkpoints. [EAST] Orsal. [EAST] » The sound of a projectile being fired toward 13 Israel is heard in south Lebanon. In response, » An IDF patrol fires toward An-Nakkar pond in the IDF fires a projectile toward south the Shebaa Farms area. [SOUTH] Lebanon. [SOUTH]

42 43 25 » A citizen discovers two balloons marked with Hebrew writing in his backyard in Kfar Tebnit. [SOUTH] » A projectile is launched toward Israel from the area around the Litani River. [SOUTH] » An IDF soldier is wounded by a sniper operating near Odaysse. [SOUTH]

26 » The IDF launches more than 20 rockets toward villages near the Litani River. The attack is in response to two rockets being fired from Jarmaq (one of which hits Israel while the other lands inside Lebanon). The LAF confirms 28 that the launch sites were in Jarmaq, and an » Rachaiyya residents demand that the investigation discloses that another projectile LAF establish more checkpoints to prevent was ready to be fired.[SOUTH] individuals from sneaking into the Shebaa Farms area via illegal mountain routes. In the » Twelve IDF soldiers cross the technical fence most recent incident, one Syrian was killed and between Lebanon and Israel and penetrate to two others were injured when the microbus the Wazzani River. [SOUTH] they were in was fired on when it refused to stop. [SOUTH] 27 » Syrian fire targets a house 30 in Abboudiyeh. [NORTH] » A patrol from UNIFIL's Spanish battalion » IDF movements within the occupied sector is blocked by residents of Chacra when of al-Ghajar prompt UNIFIL to intensify its members of the unit are suspected of having presence in the area. [SOUTH] photographed the village. [NORTH]

Number of Incidents by Border / August 2014 Southern Border Northern Border Eastern Border 12 3 2

September 10 3 » Armed Syrians remove old sand blocks from » LAF units deployed between Shebaa and the Lebanese-Syrian border area and build Rachaiyya al-Wadi notice armed elements another outside Akroum (Lebanon). [NORTH] moving toward the Bekaa from Syria through » The Akkari villages of an-Noura and ad- Mount Hermon. They withdraw when the LAF Dousa are attacked with projectiles. [NORTH] takes them under fire.[SOUTH] 13 5 » An IDF patrol attempts to arrest a » Hezbollah elements discover an Lebanese shepherd near Shebaa Farms but eavesdropping device in a telecom network he escapes. [SOUTH] in Adloun. A Hezbollah member is killed when the device explodes as he attempts to 17 dismantle it. [SOUTH] » An IDF drone is spotted at low altitude over Marjaayoun. [SOUTH] 8 » The area between Laboue and Nabi Osman 19 is struck by ordnance, as is Haour Taala (north » Laboue is hit by two projectiles but no Bekaa). [EAST] injuries are reported. [EAST]

44 45 » The IDF launches a white aerostat above 22 the Wazzani River. Afterward, the IDF deploys » Two IDF reconnaissance aircraft enter soldiers near the technical fence. [SOUTH] Lebanese airspace in the south. [SOUTH]

20 30 » An IDF drone crashes in the Sarda- » An IDF patrol chases two shepherds in Marjaayoun district. [SOUTH] Saddana-Hasbayya. [SOUTH]

Number of Incidents by Border / September 2014 Southern Border Northern Border Eastern Border 8 2 2

October 1 » The IDF emplaces more surveillance devices of Hekr Janin, al-Qochloq and Amar south of the international border with Lebanon, al-Bikat. [NORTH] including camera-equipped aerostats. [SOUTH] » The IDF intensifies its land and air activities near Lebanese and Syrian territory. [SOUTH] 5 » Clashes take place near al-Qaa between 11 Syrian rebels and Hezbollah. A Hezbollah position » Assad forces bomb Akkari border villages is attacked near the Lebanese-Syrian border. intensely causing significant property Reports indicate that 10 people are killed. [EAST] damage. [NORTH] » Hermel is hit by two projectiles. An-Nusra 18 Front tweets that it attacked Hezbollah outside » Akkari villages are struck by projectiles. [NORTH] Nahle killing and injuring several Hezbollah members. [EAST] 19 » A Syrian regime force penetrates into 6 Lebanese border villages in the Rachaiyya » An-Nusra Front clashes with Hezbollah outside district. They withdraw to their positions after Younin, Baalbek, Nahle and Orsal. [EAST] stealing 37 sheep from local shepherds. [EAST] » An LAF position in the Shebaa Farms area is fired on by the IDF, and an LAF soldier is 20 wounded. The incident is contained thanks to » Eight members of the IDF cross the technical UNIFIL intercession. [SOUTH] fence and head to the Wazzani River. [SOUTH]

7 22 » Two Israeli soldiers are injured when their » Fifty Israeli soldiers cross the technical fence vehicle strikes an IED near the Shebaa Farms near al-Ghajar and proceed to the eastern area. The IDF responds with an artillery bank of the Wazzani River. [SOUTH] bombardment of Lebanese villages along the southern border. [SOUTH] 23 » The IDF fires a smoke canister in nearMays al- 9 Jabal to frighten a shepherd. [SOUTH] » Brital is hit by three projectiles. [EAST] 28 10 » Hermel is hit by three projectiles. Syrian » Ordnance fired from Syria hits the outskirts warplanes attack positions outside Orsal. [EAST]

Number of Incidents by Border / October 2014 Southern Border Northern Border Eastern Border 7 3 6

44 45 November » Explosions are heard in the Shebaa Farms 17 area due to Israeli military drills. [SOUTH] » Syrian warplanes target positions outside 21 Orsal. [EAST] » An-Nusra Front tweets that it lured Hezbollah members into an ambush outside Nahle and 18 injured several of them. [EAST] » Ten Israeli soldiers cross the technical fence near Wazzani. [SOUTH] 25 » The LAF reinforces its positions along the 19 Shebaa-Mount Hermon axis. [SOUTH] » Syrian warplanes attack Orsal and Ras Baalbek. [EAST] 26 » Twenty-two Israeli soldiers cross the technical » At least 11 projectiles are fired toward the fence near Wazzani parks while 10 other Akkari villages along the Lebanese-Syrian border. [NORTH] soldiers keep watch. [SOUTH]

28 20 » Syrians fire on Akkari border villages.[NORTH] » Two projectiles fired from Syria strike east Shebaa. [EAST] 29 » Syrian projectiles strike al-Qochloq, Amar » The Aabboudiye-Menjez Highway is al-Bikat and the highway that connects al- attacked from within Syria, and a retired Abboudiyeh to Menjez. [NORTH] Lebanese sergeant is injured. [NORTH]

Number of Incidents by Border / November 2014 Southern Border Northern Border Eastern Border 4 4 4

December 3 17 » The LAF constructs watchtowers and staffs » Several raids are conducted against them with soldiers equipped with night vision the Zamarani smuggling route through the binoculars. [EAST] Lebanese-Syrian border. [EAST]

6 18 » The LAF fires on armed Syrian groups in the » The Akkari villages along the Lebanese- Orsal countryside. [EAST] Syrian border are fired on.[NORTH]

8 24 » The LAF places sand blocks along border » The Syrian coast guard fires on a boat passages outside Orsal. [SOUTH] owned by Arida residents fishing near the » The IDF intensifies its patrols between Kfar Kila village. One of the boats is captured and the and Odaisse. [SOUTH] fishermen on board are taken to Syria.[NORTH]

9 27 » Four smuggling routes through the eastern » The LAF inspects illegal passages that Lebanese-Syrian borders are closed by the connect Orsal and its environs to LAF. [EAST] Qalamoun. [EAST]

16 29 » The IDF begins installing devices on a » The LAF arrests Syrian citizens trying to sneak telecom pillar they erected previously on a hill into Beit Jinn (Syria) via the Shebaa facing the Wazzani River. [SOUTH] Farms. [SOUTH]

46 47 30 » The IDF erects two tents on the road that runs that some members of the patrol had been from the border to the Wazzani River. [SOUTH] photographing the village. The residents detain » Ramiye residents clash with a UNIFIL patrol three vehicles and hold them until the LAF from the Ghanaian battalion. Residents suspect intervenes. [SOUTH]

Number of Incidents by Border / December 2014 Southern Border Northern Border Eastern Border 6 2 5

46 47 Blank Page The LAF: Lebanon’s Hope…by Default

Introduction In reality, Saudi Arabia is not the only On December 29, 2013, shortly after country that responds decisively when the funeral for the late Mohammed Lebanon is shaken by a significant Chatah (the Sunni former Finance event. On February 22, 2014, just a Minister and prominent member of few hours after a suicide bomber the Hariri establishment who was attacked an LAF checkpoint in assassinated earlier that month), Hermel (northern Bekaa), British President Michel Suleiman announced Ambassador to Beirut Tom Fletcher that Saudi Arabia had pledged tweeted his country's concern for $3 billion in aid to the Lebanese Lebanon’s stability: “Appalled that Armed Forces (LAF). In Lebanon, our Leb army allies hit by cowardly the announcement received an terrorism tonight. We'll help rebuild enthusiastic welcome from friends of Hermel checkpoint+offer $500,000 of Saudi Arabia, particularly the Future protective kit.”3 On October 22, 2014, Movement which sponsored a series the British Embassy announced that of billboards in Beirut thanking the the United Kingdom had delivered “Good King” for his donation.1 During military equipment to the LAF to help the August 2, 2014 Battle of Orsal it deal with the jihadist threat on its between the LAF and Islamist (Syrian) eastern border with Syria. The UK rebels, several LAF members were donation, described by Ambassador killed and wounded, while some 35 Fletcher in a series of tweets ("to other individuals from the LAF and help army secure Syrian border from Lebanon's Internal Security Forces extremists"), was valued at $16 million (ISF) were taken prisoner. Shortly and included 164 Land Rovers, 1,500 afterward, Saudi Arabia pledged sets of body armor, a secure radio another $1 billion, which was to be communication network, border divided among the various Lebanese watchtowers and HESCO barriers security organizations, including the to protect LAF positions along the LAF.2 frontier.4 ,5

1 http://www.al-akhbar.com/node/198400 2 http://www.businessinsider.com/r-saudi-arabia-grants-lebanons-army-1-billion-in-aid-2014-06 3 https://twitter.com/HMATomFletcher/status/437293081634025472 4 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Oct-22/274964-uk-delivers-aid-to-lebanese- army.ashx#sthash.310kOfJ9.dpuf 5 https://twitter.com/HMATomFletcher

PB 49 Obviously, the LAF's primary considered the only institution capable benefactor—the United States—is of guaranteeing at least a modicum equally magnanimous. On Army Day, of national order. Moreover, while August 1, 2014 (commemorated many Lebanese institutions either do discretely that year due to the not function at all or do so at markedly presidential vacancy and a day reduced levels of productivity before the Orsal battle began), because of the political deadlock (to the U.S. Embassy in Beirut posted a say nothing of the corruption inherent YouTube clip that described the range in the Lebanese system), the LAF is and depth of U.S. military assistance seen as the only institution that has to the LAF. Soon after the battle, U.S. continued to function more or less Ambassador David Hale stated: satisfactorily. According to its mission, The United States will soon the LAF is key to preserving “stability” deliver additional munitions in its most literal sense, and it does and ordnance for offensive and so largely by "containing" related defensive combat operations incidents. by the LAF. This assistance will enhance the LAF’s ability to At the same time, however, the LAF secure Lebanon’s borders, represents the last Maronite Christian protect Lebanon’s people and concentration of power within the fight these violent extremist complex Lebanese landscape. While groups. U.S. military assistance the country's presidency remains will begin arriving in the next vacant (an office earmarked by the few weeks and continue in the constitution for a Maronite Christian), months to follow.6 the prerogatives of that office were truncated dramatically by the Taif Why the LAF Matters to Lebanon Agreement: The urgent responses noted above to situations involving the LAF say a great The Taif Agreement stripped the deal about the perspective of the LAF President of his constitutional held by regional and international powers and arguably left him powers—and their expectations of with only one effective tool of that organization. In a country rife with governance—the authority to sectarian divisions, one that continues appoint the members of the to experience an enduring political Cabinet as agreed to by the crisis and today is burdened with some Prime Minister. Paradoxically, 1.5 million Syrian (and several hundred under the Taif Agreement, thousand Palestinian) refugees, the the President is the Supreme LAF is seen as the “only [Lebanese] Commander in Chief of the institution … considered … a national Army but the Army is under the body.”7 Implicit in that description authority of the Cabinet in which is that, short of Lebanon achieving the President does not have the a sustainable political life, the LAF is right to vote.8

6 http://www.timesofisrael.com/lebanon-asks-us-for-combat-planes-to-battle-jihadists/ 7 http://www.economist.com/blogs/pomegranate/2014/04/lebanons-armed-forces 8 http://www.loc.gov/law/help/lebanon-constitutional-law.php#taef

50 51 Critically, Lebanon's Christian Maronite comprehensively at a general or community has been wrestling constitutional level. Indeed, the with an acute crisis in leadership. Lebanese and Syrian armies were That predicament can be traced aligned according to “brotherhood, technically to the day former President cooperation and coordination” during Amin Gemayyel left office in 1988, that time. Demonstrably, the last two near the end of the war. Unfortunately, presidents of the Lebanese Republic no successor president was waiting also served previously as LAF chiefs in the wings, and the temporal of staff: former President (General) significance of Gemayyel's departure Émile Lahoud (1998 – 2006) and former was that disintegration within the State President (General) Michel Suleiman was just then reaching its peak. From (2008 – 2014). Thus, given the current that time until the Taif Agreement was "vacancy" at Baabda Palace, it is concluded, Lebanon existed under unsurprising that a top candidate for the official rule of two governments, the position is General Jean Kahwaji— one of which was presided over by the LAF's current chief of staff. General Michel Aoun, the chief of staff of one of the factions spawned by the As is typical for the Syrian Baathists divided army. Clearly, implementation who blur the lines between the of the Taif Agreement required the political and military realms, the clout of the Syrian military (officially presidency of the republic seems a joint Lebanese/Syrian effort that to have emerged as the ultimate had the blessing of the U.S. and “promotion” a chief of staff may its allies) to dislodge Aoun from expect. Of course, this propensity has the presidential palace when he not only exacerbated the malaise that rejected some provisions of the Taif has affected the Maronite Christian Agreement and clung to the idea of political elite, but it has also debased “legitimacy.” The predicament faced the position of the LAF’s chief of staff. by Lebanon’s Christians, particularly Since a chief of staff is thus expected the Maronites, assumed even greater to keep one eye trained on Baabda proportions during the 15 years of (the presidential palace), he would “Syrian tutelage.” During that period, also be expected to do his utmost the LAF’s chief of staff accreted to please the country’s various ever more constitutional authority to political powers—and even influential the detriment of the political elites, regional and international actors—to the members of which either were achieve the dream of exchanging his excluded physically or became present title, "general," for that of "Mr. secondary actors who seemed unable President." to accept their own marginalization.9 Sustaining the LAF Despite the 15 years of Syrian As mentioned above, the U.S. tutelage and the ideological imprint historically has been one of the LAF’s it made on Lebanese society, that most generous international donors. outcome has never been addressed By consistently declaring its support for

9 General Michel Aoun and former President Amin Gemayyel were forced to leave the country, while Lebanese Forces leader Samir Geagea was jailed.

50 51 the LAF as Lebanon’s “sole legitimate support (a recent report by Norwegian defense force,” U.S. authorities have NGO FAFO indicated approval ratings often expressed their preference for as high as 80%), it remains chronically Hezbollah's disarmament and that underfunded, which helps explain the the LAF assert itself as Lebanon's sole LAF's dependence on international military organization. At the same donors.12 The LAF’s funding sources time, the U.S. has generally restricted are also tied both to Lebanon’s its aid to training and logistical support relationships with the nations involved rather than armaments because of and to the organization's internal its reluctance to provide Lebanon struggles with domestic terrorism, with any equipment that could harm factors that are linked inextricably U.S.-Israeli relations. Nevertheless, the to events occurring throughout the LAF received a dramatic increase region (including Syria and Iraq). in U.S. funding after former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri was assassinated The "CIA World Factbook" states that in 2005 and Syrian troops withdrew as of 2010, Lebanon spent 4.04% of from the country. A year later, the its GDP on military expenditures, thus July 2006 War between Israel and making it the tenth highest spending Hezbollah (ended by UNSCR 1701, country in the world.13 But according which also reintroduced the LAF to to Aram Nerguizian of the Center for south Lebanon after a decades- Strategic and International Studies in long absence) prompted the U.S. Washington, D.C. and an expert on to provide even more funding, such Lebanon's military, “Lebanon is unable that between 2006 and 2008, the LAF to develop its military forces without received more than $400 million in U.S. the assistance of funds and equipment assistance.10 Similarly, in early January from other countries such as the 2013, the U.S. promised the LAF 200 United States, France, the United more armored vehicles to help protect Kingdom, Belgium and the UAE.”14 Lebanon’s borders and sustain internal In fact, the LAF’s overdependence stability.11 It seems, therefore, that on foreign assistance highlights the pitting the LAF against Hezbollah (an issue of the shifting political agendas unlikely matchup as will be discussed behind that assistance. For instance, later in this document) is no longer a the post-2006 assistance to the LAF, precondition to the LAF receiving aid. framed within the provisions of UNSCR 1701, is vastly different from today’s Such grants, whether from the U.S. version which justifies such aid as a or other nations, help underscore means to achieve the objectives of the complexity of the LAF's funding “fighting terrorism.” But while that kind regimen. Although the organization of assistance may expand or contract generally enjoys broad domestic based on the agendas involved, and

10 http://www.washingtoninstitute.org/policy-analysis/view/the-future-of-u.s.-military-aid-to-lebanon 11 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Local-News/2013/Jan-07/201181-us-gives-lebanon-200-armored- vehicles.ashx 12 http://www.fafo.no/images/pub/2013/10179.pdf 13 https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/rankorder/2034rank.html?countryname =Lebanon&countrycode=le®ionCode=mde&rank=10#le 14 http://csis.org/files/media/csis/pubs/090210_lafsecurity.pdf

52 53 while the LAF may indeed receive headed a security delegation to Egypt more weapons and training, the on November 9, 2014 to purchase long-term outcome does not favor its military equipment as part of the sustained development. One example second Saudi grant) expressed the is the ad hoc interest shown in the LAF need “to put efforts together in a bid by the “International Support Group to combat the spread of terrorism.”17 for Lebanon.”15 During a daylong According to Basem Shabb, a conference held in Rome on June 17, Lebanese MP and member of the 2014 and attended by representatives parliament's Committee on Defense, from 43 countries and regional and cooperation between Lebanon and international bodies (including the Egypt would improve the capabilities UN), Italian Foreign Minister Federica of the armed forces because of Mogherini stated that the group's aim Egypt’s advanced weaponry, the was to “support Lebanon in the face existing legal framework within the of all the challenges its security and Arab League's Common Defense stability are facing…. The Lebanese Pact, a shared training doctrine, army is a main base for Lebanon’s the common language and Egypt’s stability.”16 opposition to radical Islamic factions.18 During a meeting in New York, Later that summer, several other Egyptian President Abdel Fattah countries pledged moral and al-Sisi expressed to Prime Minister material support for the LAF. Egyptian Tammam Salam Egypt’s readiness Ambassador Mohamed Zayed said to train Lebanese troops to fight on December 5, 2014 that Lebanon against terrorists.19 Iran also offered must be isolated from regional crises to donate military equipment to the to maintain its stability and that Egypt Lebanese army, but that offer was would provide security assistance if held in abeyance to prevent harming needed. Zayed explained that Egypt’s relations with the West.20 Additionally, support for the fight against extremists March 14 figures in Lebanon have in Lebanon was linked to a broader been voicing opposition to Iranian regional strategy. In addition, Interior offers by explaining that they would Minister Nouhad al-Mashnouq (who represent a violation of extant

15 “The inaugural meeting of the International Support Group for Lebanon was held on 25 September 2013 at United Nations Headquarters in New York and was chaired by the United Nations Secretary- General Mr. Ban Ki-moon. Participants invited to the meeting were: the People’s Republic of China, the Republic of France, the Republic of Lebanon, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, the European Union, the League of Arab States, the World Bank, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, the United Nations Development Group, the United Nations Special Coordinator for Lebanon and the Force Commander of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).” See: http://www.presidency.gov.lb/English/News/Pages/Details.aspx?nid=20763 16 https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/lebanonnews/551910-international-support-group-for-lebanon-kicks- off-rome-conference 17 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Dec-05/279994-egypt-ready-to-assist- lebanon-against-jihadis.ashx?utm_source=Magnet&utm_medium=Related%20Articles%20 widget&utm_campaign=Magnet%20tools#sthash.hjhYp7ie.dpuf 18 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/Opinion/Commentary/2014/Jun-20/260820-look-to-egypt-for-military- cooperation.ashx#sthash.idK4TbF2.dpuf 19 http://www.naharnet.com/stories/en/148546 and http://al-anwar.com.au/index.php/salam-sees- defensive-role-lebanon-egypt-ready-train-lebanese-army-battle-terrorists/ 20 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Sep-30/272465-iran-to-donate-military-aid-to- lebanese-army.ashx#sthash.nTgGwee6.dpuf

52 53 international sanctions against Tehran are on the rise in Lebanon” and over weapons exports.21 Based on that the U.S. is continuing to provide the international accords concluded “counterterrorism funding” to the recently with Tehran, however, LAF.25 Of note, such statements that situation may change. Russian are consistent with a wider U.S.-led Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov added discourse surrounding the “war on his country's contributions to the terror” and the need to tackle global mix when he stated at a joint news Sunni extremism. In a speech delivered conference in Moscow attended by to the 2014 graduating class of the his Lebanese counterpart Gebran U.S. Military Academy in West Point, Bassil, “Russia will enhance military New York on May 28, 2014, President cooperation with Lebanon, mainly by Obama announced a $5 billion reinforcing the defense capabilities “Counterterrorism Partnerships Fund,” of the Lebanese Army and security which includes support to Lebanon, forces.”22 Notably, former President Jordan, Turkey and Iraq to “confront Michel Suleiman had previously sought terrorists working across Syrian stronger military support from Moscow borders.”26,27 for the LAF during his second visit to Russia in January 2013. This collection The LAF vs. “Sunni Terrorism” of donors and would-be donors spans Lebanon did not discover Sunni a remarkably broad political spectrum. extremism recently or as a result of At the same time, however, they share the Syrian conflict. In the post-Taif the notion that the LAF should be era at the turn of the millennium, a supported in its fight against “extremist spotlight was focused on the presence groups” to ensure "Lebanon’s of radical Sunni Islamists in Lebanon stability."23,24 when the LAF clashed with a group of Islamists entrenched in Akkar (northern Although many foreign statements Lebanon). Though the LAF proved made to explain the provision of victorious, it paid a relatively high price material support to the LAF emphasize (investigations revealed later that the the importance of “stability” and Islamists involved had international “security,” they have increasingly connections, and the failure of included references to fighting Sunni Lebanon’s political/judiciary system to extremism. For instance, a February try them properly ultimately fueled the 26, 2014 announcement posted rise of Islamism in Lebanon). Another on the U.S. Department of Defense wakeup call came on September 11, website asserts “Sunni terrorist attacks 2001 when the Lebanese learned that

21 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Oct-31/276081-no-good-reason-to-refuse- iranian-aid-hezbollah-mp.ashx#sthash.iPuIKxcN.dpuf 22 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Apr-25/254307-russia-to-lend-a-hand-to- lebanese-army.ashx#sthash.ZVqNN8B8.dpuf 23 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Apr-25/254307-russia-to-lend-a-hand-to- lebanese-army.ashx#axzz37Rsi9JQv 24 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Jul-05/262788-iran-offers-to-help-lebanon- fight-terrorism.ashx#axzz37Rsi9JQv 25 http://www.defense.gov/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=121731 26 http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/obama-wants-to-set-up-new-5-billion- counterterrorism-fund/2014/05/28/c5ee3362-e662-11e3-a86b-362fd5443d19_story.html 27 http://www.haaretz.com/news/world/1.595842

54 55 one of the terrorists involved in the of Lebanon's Sunni community, attacks against the United States was particularly those in the country's rural from the Bekaa. Clearly, we cannot areas, have been exacerbated by a find a direct link between the groups perceived lack of leadership. Since the that operated in the early 2000s and assassination of former Prime Minister those that are active today, but we Rafic Hariri, the so-called “moderate can be certain that the presence of Sunni leadership” has contended with radical Islamists in Lebanon was neither a political vacuum, which enabled imported into the country nor was it some members of that community to related to spillover—whether from the drift toward a more radical philosophy. war in Afghanistan (as was the case As Raphael Lefèvre noted in a recent with some who were involved in the report, “With Hariri’s death, the Sunnis 2000 incidents) or the ongoing war in were left without a charismatic leader Syria. Some Lebanese, however, would with influence at the top of the state. disagree…. The subsequent ascendance of Shia Hezbollah only served to reinforce the In reality, Sunnis represent anti-statist trend among Sunnis.”33 In approximately 40% of the LAF’s addition, Lebanon’s Sunnis are militarily strength, which complicates the weak in the face of Hezbollah’s arms already awkward dichotomy in which and lack a single, powerful State the LAF is regarded concurrently backer. as an important job provider and a potential source of ideological The influence traditionally exerted opposition.28,29 This is particularly true by the Hariri family has continued to in northern Lebanese districts such as wane in the face of an ascendant Akkar, which have significant Sunni Hezbollah. For instance, the 2008 majorities. Districts such as those are Doha Agreement was considered a also among Lebanon’s most deprived triumph for Hezbollah, which gained since the north is home to just 20.7% of veto power in the new Cabinet. In Lebanon’s population but 46% of the 2011, Hezbollah ousted Rafic Hariri’s country’s "extremely poor" according son Saad, the country's serving prime to a 2008 UNDP report.30,31 The same minister. After a self-imposed, three- report observes, “Regional disparity year exile in Paris, Hariri returned to is…a major characteristic of poverty” Lebanon on August 8, 2014, a few in Lebanon.32 days after the Battle of Orsal, an event that altered the prevailing In turn, feelings of socioeconomic mood within the Sunni community.34 hardship among the members Criticism of the Hariri establishment

28 http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/features/2014/03/lebanon-sunnis-alienated-army-actions- 2014317115444492619.html 29 http://bigstory.ap.org/article/sunni-anger-lebanon-against-army-grows 30 http://www.carnegie-mec.org/2014/04/15/roots-of-crisis-in-northern-lebanon/h86r 31 http://www.undp.org/content/dam/rbas/report/2008%20en.pdf 32 Ibid. 33 Lefèvre, Raphael. "The Roots of Crisis in Northern Lebanon." Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. May 7, 2014. http://carnegieendowment.org/files/crisis_northern_lebanon.pdf 34 http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2014/08/08/Former-PM-Hariri-back-in-Lebanon-for- first-time-in-three-years.html

54 55 and its policy of buying its survival Movement's parliamentary bloc in the and the durability of its interests in 2005 and 2009 elections. Similarly, Orsal Lebanon (a propensity originated by is the sole Sunni pocket in northern the late Rafic Hariri) is certainly not Bekaa, an area that is overwhelmingly new. Rather, it can be traced to the Shia. Future Movement's muted response to Hezbollah’s punitive campaign of It should be evident that it is not our May 2008 and shifts in Saudi Arabia's intent to discuss exhaustively the policy in the region, such as the short- situation being faced by Lebanon's lived rapprochement between it and Sunni community. At the same Syria in 2009. A symbolic response time, that knowledge is vital to to the growing dissatisfaction within developing an understanding of the Lebanon's Sunni community was interplay between the weakening evident in video released on January of its once strong leadership and 22, 2014 and titled “A message from security conditions within the the Sunnis of Tripoli to Saad Hariri country from the LAF's perspective. and the Future Movement.” In it, a For instance, the LAF has certainly masked gunman taunts the former been buffeted by recent events in prime minister: “You sold the blood Lebanon. For example, its rout of of martyrs, you sold the blood of your Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir’s movement own father just to reach power.”35 in Saida (June 2013) spawned three lingering considerations. 1) From a “field” perspective, the Until today and despite discussions concurrent weakening of the Hariri- held by the Lebanese parliament's based structure and emergence of defense committee, it is unclear other poles is illustrated by considering what role Hezbollah played in that the geography in which the LAF military action.36,37 2) Though the faced Lebanese groups that posed Future Movement was only too a threat to State security and/or the happy to see Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir stability of the country. Three regions removed from the political scene, were involved, but all three, Saida, the FM and its allies did not hesitate Tripoli and Orsal, are historically Sunni afterward to advocate some of Assir’s strongholds. For instance, Saida is the perspectives—to the point of using traditional home of the Hariri family them to negotiate with Hezbollah and while Tripoli, "the capital of the north," the LAF.38 3) Despite the high casualties gave its full weight to the Future the LAF suffered during that operation,

35 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4EigUDsIf3w 36 Blanford, Nicholas. “Lebanon hit by the worst fighting since its civil war.” The Times. June 25, 2013. "Although the Lebanese Army’s special forces units spearheaded the attack on Sheikh Assir’s compound, they had Hezbollah’s battle-hardened fighters to back them up.” 37 “Saida incidents: Who dares to ask for accountability?” In this article, Al-Mustaqbal newspaper (a mouthpiece of the Hariri-led Future Movement) relates the principal findings of a report published by a Lebanese human rights organization which proves that the LAF and Hezbollah have colluded. http:// www.almustaqbal.com/v4/Article.aspx?Type=np&Articleid=579800 38 For instance, in apparent deference to al-Assir's demand, Hezbollah agreed just days after the Abra battle to release to the LAF several apartments it had used previously. Another instance that describes how the FM jumped on some al-Assir-derived, anti-Hezbollah propaganda is apparent in the debates that occurred within the parliamentary defense committee in the aftermath of the Abra clashes. http://m.naharnet.com/stories/en/88440-hizbullah-vacates-disputed-apartments-in-sidon

56 57 its image was tarnished by accusations accused the organization of using that it engaged in torture.39 According “death squads” to target Sunnis.43 He to Nadim Houry, deputy Middle East also released a video critical of Saudi director at Human Rights Watch, “Not Arabia's pledge to fund the LAF.44 only is justice for the victims at stake, but also the army’s reputation.”40 The The various rounds of violence Tripoli aftermath of the crackdown on al- experienced in 2013 and 2014 seem Assir further exacerbated tensions in much more difficult to understand Saida, particularly following the death and explain than anything else the of Nader Bayoumi (while in military country has witnessed. While the custody) and numerous accusations mutual hatred between the largely of mistreatment and beatings. In fact, Alawi town of Jabal Mohsen and the Human Rights Watch documented Sunni majority town of Bab Tabbaneh those accusations and urged the LAF may have historical roots, it is difficult to “ensure a thorough, impartial, and to conceive of those sour relations transparent investigation…following degenerating today into armed clashes with armed supporters of conflict. Further, the successive Sheikh Ahmed al-Assir.”41 The report rounds of violence (halted in fall references a detainee named 2014 after a large LAF operation) “Ahmed” who claimed, “the army may seem equally confusing. No and members of the “Resistance more so, of course, than the way Brigades” (Saraya al-Muqawama, Hezbollah and the Future Movement, a multi-confessional militia created, directly or through the military and armed, funded and run by Hezbollah) security agencies controlled by each, beat him severely at a nearby offered "assistance" to either side. checkpoint.”42 Without doubt, such There are other players involved, of accusations have the potential to course, such as former Prime Minister incite sectarian tension since they Najib Mikati, who is considered appear to compromise the LAF's non- a benefactor (among others) of partisanship. Even al-Assir, who went the armed groups involved in the missing after the June 2013 assault fighting. Even the LAF's intelligence (but was finally arrested on August branch contributed, seemingly, to 15, 2015), continued to taunt and the machinations that advanced the criticize the LAF in videos in which he bloody game.45

https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/lebanonnews/hezbollah-empties-two-sidon-apartments http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Politics/2013/Jun-19/220870-lebanese-army-sets-up-posts-after- sidon-clashes.ashx http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Politics/2013/Jun-19/220860-sidon-in-crosshairs-of-syria-crisis.ashx 39 “Amnesty Calls for 'Transparent' Probe into Death of Sidon Clashes Detainee” http://m.naharnet.com/ stories/en/89876-amnesty-calls-for-transparent-probe-into-death-of-sidon-clashes-detainee 40 http://www.hrw.org/news/2013/07/17/lebanon-investigate-army-beatings-death-custody 41 Ibid. 42 Ibid. 43 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xdcG5YdDm1c 44 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F0sZTvla7DU 45 Among the tremendous amount of media coverage of the clashes in Tripoli, the most notable examples are al-Akhbar's interview with, and profile of Islamist MP Khaled Daher (December 1, 2014), and its article on General Amer el-Hassan (the head of the LAF's intelligence organization in northern Lebanon) which alludes to the roles he played during the unrest in Tripoli during 2013-2014. http:// www.al-akhbar.com/node/231977

56 57 Yet, it is important to note that the mentioned above—the army and role played by the LAF (and the ISF's other State security agencies focused intelligence organization) during on Islamist activists who had little those rounds of violence in Tripoli if anything to do with those who remains unclear. But since a prevalent surrendered. In April 2015, the Military perception is that its actions there Court began the trials of those militia seem uncannily similar to those leaders. Not only did the proceedings of other non-State actors on the disclose the criminal profiles of the Lebanese scene, its organizational leaders involved, but they also ignited image—particularly as a model “a war between Hariri and Mikati.”46 Lebanese institution—was tarnished Indeed, based on the depositions even further. Still, the presence of taken, a key outcome of the trial is that "prevalent perception" must be that most of the leaders involved couched by the fact that it emerged have very little to do with the Islamist in media reports published later militants of an-Nusra or ISIL, some of (and cited herein). From August 2014 whom were killed or captured by the onward, for instance, negotiated LAF and other security agencies.47 "arrangements" led some Sunni militia leaders to surrender to the LAF (they The Direct Effect of Sectarianism were tried later by the Military Court). on the LAF Interestingly, however, Ali Eid and his While the LAF often describes its June son Rifaat, main figures in the Alawi 2013 actions in Sidon (Abra) against pro-Assad/Hezbollah Arab Democratic Assir's supporters as a “victory” (and Party, were "permitted to leave the its pacification of Tripoli somewhat less game" despite having been accused so), the third main Sunni hotbed of of complicity in the August 23, 2013 violence remains exceptionally active bombings of two Sunni Mosques. due to several factors. For instance, similar to the events that took place From a critical perspective, not even in Abra (which raised a host of still- the vagueness of the overall situation unanswered questions), events in can hide its significant importance, Orsal also prompted comprehensive particularly that the deadly rounds reviews. In fact, some pro-Hezbollah of violence between Jabal Mohsen press outlets urged after the battle and Bab Tabbaneh may well have of August 2 that an investigative become the blueprint for increasingly committee be established to conduct violent Islamist radicalism. Indeed, just such a review.48 since the LAF's intercession in Tripoli—following the “arrangements” Following those actions, sectarian

46 Al-Modon website. http://www.almodon.com/politics/769cd1c1-2683-4efb-87c8-a8dde4d63c36 47 The transcript of the Military Court trial of a Tripoli-based militia leader such as Ziad Allouki (an- Nahar, April 15, 2015) demonstrates clearly that he is completely dissimilar to Oussama Mansour, for instance, an Islamist militant from Tripoli who was killed by ISF intelligence on April 9, 2015. Mansour was eulogized by an-Nusra Front as its “prince” in Tripoli (as-Safir, April 17, 2015). 48 On August 22, 2014, as-Safir ran the headline, “As-Safir requests a military investigation commission look into the events in Orsal.” Obviously—and as is typical in Lebanon—no action was taken on the request despite the amount of information disclosed by a newspaper known for its support of Hezbollah's positions. The most common question prompted by that headline and the accompanying report was, "Who decided to highlight General Kahwaji's responsibility in that debacle?”

58 59 tensions within the LAF seemed and ISF members taken prisoner at to reach a breaking point. When Orsal became a constant reminder LAF soldier Atef Saadeddin went that the battle never really ended. missing near the end of July 2014, his Moreover, the "military security zone" disappearance was presumed to have instituted there has not truly pacified been an abduction. It soon became the area in terms of normalizing apparent, however, that he deserted relations between the Sunni and Shia the army in order to join a jihadi neighborhoods involved. Similarly the group.49 Shortly afterwards, another news blackout imposed on the situation LAF soldier, Abdul Qader Akkoumi, regarding the refugees from Syria in announced his defection to the Islamic Orsal and the LAF's self-acknowledged State jihadist group in a video posted "misbehavior" in the nearby refugee to the Internet.50 Then, in early October camps has certainly not helped the LAF 2014, Abdallah Shehadeh, a serving regain its once vaunted status. Then LAF soldier, explained in a video that there are Hezbollah’s operations in Hezbollah’s "manipulation" of the Qalamoun—the proverbial icing on the military and its "discrimination" against cake—to be considered.52 Sunni personnel prompted him to join An-Nusra Front. “We enlisted in the Considering these events, the LAF's Army in order to defend the Lebanese “balance of debt,” particularly where people, but we were surprised to Lebanon's Sunni community is involved, see that [the Army] is a tool in the can only be corrected by reviewing hands of Hezbollah.”51 Ideologically the prodigious factors that add value driven defections such as these are to the LAF. First, the LAF is the biggest unique in the history of the LAF and employer in rural areas of Lebanon, Lebanon in general. Although certain especially in Sunni and Christian organizations split away from the core areas. At least in those areas, no other of the army during the civil war to jobs provider can compete with the affiliate with individual political actors, LAF. Second (despite some "friendly the phenomenon of “free agency” is criticism), the country's moderate Sunni a new twist indicative of the impact poles (and not just that represented by sectarianism is having within the ranks the Hariri establishment) see the LAF as of the LAF. "Defections" such as those their firewall against the radical trends mentioned above also illustrate that the within their respective communities. LAF reflects the Lebanese social fabric Third, for a number of reasons, the from which its soldiers originate. LAF generally enjoys support from the Christian communities and the Shia The failed negotiations to free the LAF community (largely because Hezbollah

49 http://english.al-akhbar.com/node/20859 50 http://m.naharnet.com/stories/en/150822-lebanese-soldier-announces-defection-to-is-in-internet- video 51 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Oct-16/274312-lebanese-army-tool-of- hezbollah-defected-soldier.ashx#sthash.CZu2AFcY.dpuf 52 Following a mid-September 2014 LAF raid against some of Orsal’s refugee camps, the secretary general of the Syrian coalition there claimed that a Syrian child had been killed in the melee and called the LAF’s actions “abusive.” Interestingly, Saad Hariri defended the LAF against those accusations. See: http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Oct-28/275602-hariri-warns- those-who-try-to-undermine-lebanese-army.ashx#sthash.xgLQVjgg.dpuf

58 59 now sees itself working from the included universal conscription (ended same agenda as the LAF: defending in 2007), the rotation of battalions Lebanon and the Lebanese people). throughout the country to reduce the risk of forming localized militias Viewed from a Sunni angle, the LAF and perhaps most prominently, the seems to have total support from the introduction of quotas for Sunni, Shia community, including public and Shia and Christian members within political opinion. With the Hezbollah- each battalion.53 Although officer contrived motto “the Army, the People positions are generally reported to be and the Resistance” (theoretically) distributed equitably among Muslims appended to all governmental and Christians, Sunnis now make up statements since 2005, it has since a disproportionate number of the become indicative of the day-to-day lower-ranking positions, thus reflecting intimacy between Hezbollah and a wider decline in Sunni fortunes (and the LAF. In a recent demonstration of the recognition that the LAF is a jobs that "jointness," Hezbollah "permitted" provider).54,55,56 This means that not the LAF to help it secure Beirut’s only is competition for enlistment southern suburbs following a spate of and advancement intense, but non- bombings in 2013. During the chaotic Sunnis are also likely to receive certain August 2013 – February 2014 period benefits (e.g., a greater likelihood for when bombings seemed to occur promotion) due to the relative scarcity weekly, the country’s security situation of recruits combined with the need to seemed to improve—in parallel with fulfill sectarian quotas. political appeasement and despite some exceptions. That much became Is the LAF Really the Model clear through increased cooperation Institution in Lebanon? between the State's various security Apparently, improvements in agencies. cooperation (primarily between the LAF and the ISF) deserved a public As mentioned above, sectarian announcement, such as the July strife in the LAF is also a potentially 5, 2014 statement in which Sunni troublesome factor that could be Minister of Interior Nouhad Machnouk exacerbated by the proportions of mentioned, “there is a partnership the different sects. When efforts were between the Army and security being made following the civil war to agencies in confronting terrorism reconstruct the LAF, several measures threatening Lebanon.”57 In that were implemented to prevent the same speech, however, Machnouk army from crumbling as happened admitted that the cooperation he during that conflict. These changes extolled included Hezbollah. “There

53 Barany, Zolton. 2014. Building National Armies after Civil War: Lessons from Bosnia, El Salvador and Lebanon in The Lebanese Army’s Unique Path. P. 11. 54 See Knudsen, Are J. 2014. Lebanese Armed Forces: A United Army for a Divided Country? http://www. cmi.no/publications/file/5284-lebanese-armed-forces.pdf and http://www.wsj.com/articles/syria- conflict-puts-lebanese-army-under-pressure-1401229578 55 http://www.wsj.com/articles/syria-conflict-puts-lebanese-army-under-pressure-1401229578 56 http://www.cmi.no/publications/file/5284-lebanese-armed-forces.pdf 57 In early 2013, Hezbollah ceded responsibility for the security of Beirut's suburbs to the LAF. Daily Star. September 25, 2013.

60 61 shouldn’t be any embarrassment over share a common enemy, and that coordination between security and shared opposition to extremist groups, military agencies and any Lebanese accords neatly with Hezbollah’s public party to secure the application of the discourse and U.S. foreign policy law.”58 Apparently, recent cooperative machinations. A July 2014 report advancements between key suggests that when the CIA uncovered organizations have not been restricted intelligence that suggested al-Qaeda- to domestic Lebanese agencies. affiliated groups were plotting attacks Rather, they include collaboration against Hezbollah’s strongholds in with foreign intelligence agencies Lebanon, it passed that information on such as the CIA. More specifically, to the Lebanese government with the the LAF and the General Security understanding that it would then be organization (headed by an individual given to Hezbollah.62 who must have Hezbollah's blessing to serve in that key position) represent Clearly, “Sunni extremism” and the the conduit for the enhanced danger it poses has not only changed cooperation deemed necessary to the LAF's agenda (and those of its maintain Lebanon's stability. It has beneficiaries), but it has also changed been suggested that the U.S. and the enduring notion that the LAF serves Lebanon are sharing intelligence, and as the model for the establishment of reports indicate for instance that Naim State institutions in Lebanon. Indeed, in Abbas, an Abdullah Azzam Brigades just a single decade we have learned commander, was captured with help conclusively that despite international from Western intelligence services.59 support, the LAF alone cannot Aram Nerguizian also stated, “External guarantee that the Lebanese State intel feeds and intelligence sharing” will reclaim its prerogative as the sole were key factors in the capture of holder of arms and legitimate purveyor terrorism suspects, and the U.S., UK, of security for the country. Not only France, Germany, Russia, Saudi is the LAF in no position to challenge Arabia, Jordan and Assad’s Syria Hezbollah militarily, but the very were listed as some of the sources rationale behind any such challenge of that intelligence.60 Despite the is no longer relevant. On the contrary, U.S. government’s action to place defending Lebanon’s borders and Hezbollah on its list of foreign terrorist maintaining an acceptable level of organizations, it appears that country's stability within the country appears intelligence agencies are working increasingly to require coordination with Hezbollah (albeit indirectly) to between the LAF and Hezbollah— combat Sunni extremism in Lebanon.61 despite all of the risks that coordination As with the LAF, Hezbollah and the U.S. suggests, such as estranging a large

58 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Jul-05/262748-army-and-security-agencies- united-in-anti-terror-battle.ashx#axzz3AASTaMug 59 http://carnegieendowment.org/sada/2014/05/13/is-lebanon-winning-against-al-qaeda/hap7 60 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Jul-07/262887-western-help-boosted- cooperation-behind-security-successes.ashx#axzz385prlUx6 61 U.S. Department of State. List of Foreign Terrorist Organizations. http://www.state.gov/j/ct/rls/other/ des/123085.htm 62 http://www.mcclatchydc.com/2013/07/15/196755/lebanese-officials-say-cia-warned.html#. UeXkhNK1Fsk

60 61 portion of the Sunni community and 2015.64,65 The delay certainly seemed all actions related to State building odd, especially since the threat posed according to generally accepted to Lebanon (and the LAF) by radical democratic ideals. groups grew substantially throughout 2014. Additionally, during the winter Nevertheless, the emergence of of 2014 – 2015, people from across Sunni extremism is not the only causal the political spectrum were predicting factor behind the apparent "intimacy" major spring clashes between forces between the LAF and Hezbollah. from Lebanon (LAF or Hezbollah) and Even if the LAF were to confront various "spillover militants" from the Hezbollah, it is very likely that the Syrian war. Many of those individuals significant proportion of Shia soldiers suggested reasonably that the Saudis in its ranks could precipitate the imposed the delay to ensure that LAF's disintegration along sectarian the arms destined for the LAF would lines. Accordingly, many sources not fall quickly into the hands of caution against any effort (particularly Hezbollah.66 Although its receipt of the U.S. aid) intended to help the LAF Saudi funding was indeed delayed, "overthrow" Hezbollah. In fact, one U.S. the LAF continued to receive critical Congressional Research Service report support from the United States. published in February 2014 drew a Regardless of reservations within the parallel between that notion and U.S. U.S. government, Lebanon was the attempts to bolster the LAF to combat fifth largest recipient of U.S. military the Palestinian Fedayeen—which aid in 2014 ($100 million). In early became a precursor to the civil war.63 February 2015, Lebanon received another $25 million—this time primarily • in the form of heavy artillery—that U.S. Ambassador David Hale said would Despite the December 2013 be used to "defeat the terrorist and announcement that Saudi Arabia extremist threat from Syria."67 would donate $3 billion to the LAF, quite some time would pass before These actions and statements any of that assistance became disclosed the wishful thinking of many tangible. In fact, the agreement others (individuals and states) that between Saudi Arabia and France such generous aid packages (the was not even ratified until November Saudi gift was the largest the Lebanese 4, 2014 (nearly a full calendar year State has received since it gained after the announcement was made), independence from France) would and none of the assistance promised finally give the LAF the firepower it actually reached the LAF until April needed to defeat Hezbollah militarily.68

63 Blanchard, Christopher M. Lebanon: Background and US Policy. P. 12. 64 https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/NewsReports/564883-france-to-start-arming-lebanon-in-spring 65 French weapons arrive in Lebanon in $3 billion Saudi-funded deal. Reuters (UK). April 20, 2015. http:// uk.reuters.com/article/2015/04/20/uk-mideast-crisis-lebanon-army-idUKKBN0NB0GE20150420 66 http://foreignpolicy.com/2015/02/06/the-battle-for-the-qalamoun-mountains-syria-lebanon-hezbollah- isis-al-nusra-front/ 67 http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/02/08/us-mideast-crisis-lebanon-usa-idUSKBN0LC0LT20150208 68 http://www.mintpressnews.com/saudi-funded-french-weapons-sent-to-lebanon-to-destroy- hezbollah/202500/

62 63 In the context of worsening “spillover” other State security organizations in from Syria, however, the LAF was policing the country, once again in more unlikely than ever to turn its guns partnership with Hezbollah. In the on the powerful Shia militia in 2014 meantime, the very notion of genuine – 2015 since the party had become political life is disappearing steadily, a strategic partner. But clearly, that as is the Taif Agreement-generation never happened. of leaders (literally and figuratively). These eventualities are creating the In the span of a single decade, 2005 conditions in which the LAF can play – 2015, the LAF experienced dramatic a steadily larger role in all aspects changes. From being little more than of national life, to the point that it an auxiliary actor during the lengthy may be perceived ultimately as an period of Syrian tutelage, it became autonomous political stakeholder. a source of hope for many Lebanese While that increasing role may help (following the Syrians' withdrawal, in preserve Lebanon's stability, however, the aftermath of the 2006 War and in the overall outlook is anything but rosy. the wake of the Nahr el-Bared battle) After all, current events compel us to and a promising bet for regional assume that the challenges facing and international actors who hoped Lebanon and the region are heading to see Lebanon recover some of its for a crescendo, which can only mean original sovereignty and regain its that continued Lebanese stability will sense of statehood. Today, the LAF is demand the implementation and busy defending some of Lebanon’s maintenance of policies that depend border areas—in full partnership with on military and security-oriented Hezbollah. It is also engaged with "muscle."

62 63 Blank Page Chronology of Major Attacks Against the LAF and Other Security Agencies

2013 January 26 18 » Clashes involving security forces in the » The Badih al-Hajj barracks in Hermel was Mankubin quarter of Tripoli occurred when shot at. Security information indicated that officials tried to halt illegal construction. LAF the attack could have been in response to reinforcements were summoned after two a previous Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) ISF vehicles were attacked. operation to arrest wanted criminals. 27 February » Beddawi (north) residents protesting the 1 cessation of illegal construction projects led » Captain Pierre Bashaalani (Christian) to a clash with the LAF and security forces. and Sergeant Ibrahim Zahraman (Sunni) Two people died and more than nine were were killed and additional LAF soldiers wounded. were wounded when their patrol was ambushed on the outskirts of Orsal. The unit May was chasing Khaled Ahmad Humayyed, 6 a suspected terrorist who was later killed. » A car owned by an ISF member in Meryata This incident marked the beginning of an (North) was set ablaze. ongoing political debate, punctuated by countless security incidents of varying 9 magnitudes regarding the status of Orsal » Two wanted criminals fired on an LAF patrol in and its environs. Qobbe.

March 14 » A patrol was firebombed in Tripoli as security April forces tried to stop illegal construction projects. 15 » An explosion occurred outside the 20 officers' club in Qobbe (Tripoli). » Several armed men fired at LAF soldiers in Tripoli killing one and wounding six. 18 » A force of about 40 armed men attacked 23 an Internal Security Forces (ISF) patrol » Three soldiers were wounded when their investigating construction violations in position in Daher Al-Maghr (Tripoli) was taken Qobbe. under fire. Two others were shot inside a civilian car near a military medical facility in Tripoli. 21 » An LAF patrol was fired on in Sharawneh 28 while pursuing criminals. Situated in Baalbek, » Three soldiers were killed when their position in Sharawneh is a haven for outlaws. Orsal was attacked.

PB 65 June 21 5 » A clash occurred between security elements » Two LAF positions were attacked in Orsal. and armed men along (Shia) Nahle Road (Bekaa). The gang was trying to prevent officials 17 from arresting an individual who had several » Supporters of Sheikh Ahmed al-Assir clashed outstanding warrants for his arrest. When it was with the LAF in Saida (South) after a woman rumored that the individual was dead, a group accused a soldier of hitting her. of armed men gathered and firebombed the general directorate of the General Security 23 office in Nahle. » The LAF issued a statement about being attacked in Saida (see 18 June entry, above). September The statement indicated that “several martyrs 1 and wounded” had fallen. Interestingly, it adds, » The officers’ club in Talya (Bekaa) was “the premeditated, coldblooded targeting of attacked by unknown assailants. the LAF was meant to kindle the wick of unrest in Saida similar to what happened in 1975 so that October Lebanon enters again a whirlwind of violence.” 2 » During an operation in Harbata to catch drug July dealers, an LAF patrol was firebombed by the 7 gang. Three soldiers were injured. » An LAF patrol encountered an IED on the main road in Hermel. The explosion followed 9 another that destroyed a civilian vehicle. » Several ISF members were injured when a According to an LAF statement, the first crowd of onlookers threw stones at them as they explosion was intended to attract the LAF patrol tried to remove illegal construction projects in to the area. One officer and a soldier were Alma (North). The incident occurred against a injured. sectarian backdrop aggravated by the fact that those trying to lead the construction are not 31 only “Muslims” but had also recently become » One soldier was killed and another injured naturalized Lebanese citizens. when they were firebombed by an unidentified assailant in Sunni Majdal Anjar. Majdal Anjar 22 is a historic stronghold of Sunni militancy. Its » Three soldiers were wounded when their proximity to the Lebanese/Syrian border made military checkpoint was firebombed in it a favored destination for newly arrived Sharawneh (Baalbek). refugees. 24 August » Two soldiers and two other individuals were 2 wounded during a cross fire in Hawsh al-Harimeh » The individual who killed LAF soldier Charbel (Bekaa) between an intelligence division patrol Hatem in Majdal Anjar on July 31 was arrested and four armed individuals in a car—which was by the LAF. discovered to be filled with explosives. Further, one of the wounded terrorists was wearing an 3 explosive belt. » Two people were killed and four wounded in the cross fire between an LAF security post and 31 an armed group in Sharawneh – Baalbek. » The LAF clashed with an armed group in Bab Tabbeneh during a raid to arrest several 4 wanted criminals. The men had been charged » A Lebanese General Security station north with participating in the earlier armed clashes in of Arida along the Lebanese-Syrian border was Tripoli. attacked. November 13 2 » An ISF officer was wounded in Jezzin (south) » A soldier was killed in a firebomb attack on during an ambush. Some media reports asserted an LAF patrol in (Shia) Dar al-Wassiaa. The that political reasons were behind the attack. soldiers had been pursuing a criminal charged

66 67 with the deaths of an ISF member and a civilian. escorting an Al-Jadeed TV crew. Al-Jadeed The criminal was later killed after he shot at is considered a pro-Hezbollah station. the patrol. Dar al-Wassiaa, home of the Shia Jaafar clan, is also known as a haven for 6 outlaws and a favored location for criminal » Clashes took place when armed men tried activities. to break into Qobbe military barracks to free a prisoner. Seven soldiers were injured. 21 » An officer and two ISF members were 15 wounded while removing construction » A hand grenade exploded outside the violations in the area of Majdlayya (North). main LAF checkpoint at the entrance to Saida. Approximately 45 minutes later, a December suicide attack was directed against another 2 LAF checkpoint in the Saida area. The LAF » A sniper targeted two soldiers at Mallula reported that one individual had been killed Bridge (Tripoli). and two others injured.

5 18 » Seven soldiers, including two officers, » A clash took place between ISF officials were wounded in Bab Tabbeneh (Tripoli). and the members of a local family in Minyeh The incident occurred as the soldiers were (North) due to a construction violation.

2014 January February 10 6 » Three soldiers were wounded when their » During a raid on the homes of several military vehicle was taken under fire in Bab outlaws in Sharawneh (Baalbek), an LAF Tabbeneh and then attacked with an anti- patrol was shot at. tank weapon. 14 » One soldier was wounded when 15 unidentified assailants threw a grenade at » LAF Intelligence arrested the leader of the an LAF checkpoint in the Ghuraba quarter of Abdullah Azzam Brigades, a wanted terrorist Tripoli. named Jamal Daftardar, after discovering his whereabouts in a village in western Bekaa. 21 The operation was a follow-up to the attack » As an LAF patrol was arresting Syrian conducted by terrorists against an LAF national in Majdal Anjar, he tried to throw a checkpoint in Saida on December 15, 2013. hand grenade toward the patrol. The patrol responded to the assault (which injured one » Mazen Abu Abbas, an Islamist from Kamed soldier), and the wanted person was killed as al-Lawz (western Bekaa), was killed after he a result. firebombed and threw a hand grenade at an intelligence division patrol that had been sent 22 to arrest him. Another version of the incident » Several members of the LAF, including a was that the patrol behaved as a death lieutenant and several civilians, were killed or squad and killed Abu Abbas purposely. injured in a suicide bombing that took place near an LAF checkpoint on the Assi Bridge 22 near the main entrance to Hermel. » LAF soldier Hussein Saadeddin was killed and eight of his comrades were wounded 24 when Bab Tabbeneh fighters engaged » The LAF arrested two wanted Syrian LAF tanks and assaulted roadblocks and nationals in a stolen car along the airport checkpoints. road. According to the LAF, the stolen car

66 67 was previously used in attacks against the 28 LAF. » ISF official Boutros Albayeh was shot dead in his car by gunmen in Majdlayyah (North). 26 » Two people on a motorcycle threw 29 a hand grenade at an LAF position in » A suicide bomber blew up his vehicle at Ghuraba (Tripoli). an LAF checkpoint in Wadi Ata along the Lebanese-Syrian border near Orsal. Three March soldiers were killed and four others were 3 wounded. » While officials were attempting to dismantle a roadblock between Bab 30 Tabbeneh and Zahriyeh, a group of » LAF units defused a homemade explosive individuals assaulted and shot at them. set to detonate near an army checkpoint in Tripoli. The device, which contained nearly 7 15 kilograms of explosive material placed » Five gunmen fired their light weapons inside an oxygen container, was connected toward an LAF position in Baalbek but to a rudimentary timer. caused no injuries. April 8 8 » While conducting periodic searches near » An LAF patrol was attacked in the Palace of Justice in Saida, a joint ISF- Qammouah (Akkar). A lieutenant and a intelligence division patrol was fired on by sergeant were killed. a member of the pro-Hezbollah Resistance » Four soldiers were wounded during a raid Brigades (Saraya Al-Muqawama). staged by the LAF intelligence directorate to arrest criminals who had thrown two hand 14 grenades at an ISF premises in Hermel on » Gunmen attacked an LAF position in the April 5, 2014. Qobbe quarter of Tripoli. Skirmishes ensued between the LAF and the aggressors, and 10 several soldiers were wounded. » A soldier was wounded while his patrol was pursuing armed elements in Bab 16 Tabbeneh (Tripoli). » Unidentified gunmen fired at an LAF checkpoint in the Orsal countryside. 14 » An ISF patrol was firebombed in 21 Jubaniyyeh (Orsal) by unidentified assailants. » An explosive device placed under a car parked near the Chamber of Commerce 26 and Industry was set to explode as an LAF » During an LAF raid to arrest several patrol passed by. individuals in Bab Tabbeneh (Tripoli), seven soldiers and an officer were wounded when 27 their patrol was attacked with a bomb. » Soldier Fadi Jbaili was shot dead by an unidentified gunman in the Boulevard 30 quarter of Tripoli. » Five members of an LAF unit patrolling near Orsal were wounded when they were » Gunmen hidden in Tripoli's Bab Ramel shot at by gunmen. cemetery opened fire on ISF Corporal Samer Dandachi. The individual was not wounded. May » A patrol was sent to arrest Sami Al-Atrash, 16 a Lebanese Islamist militant affiliated with » Two security force officers and a corporal a Syrian rebel organization, who fled to a were slightly injured while searching for an house in Orsal and began shooting at the individual in Orsal. The perpetrator threw patrol. The patrol returned fire and struck the two hand grenades and fired his Kalashnikov individual, who later died. at the patrol.

68 69 21 Khaldoun Al-Hassan. The terrorist was killed after » Eight soldiers were wounded and a military fiercely resisting arrest. vehicle was destroyed during clashes that occurred while the LAF was pursuing armed 22 elements on Bazar Street (Tripoli). The assailants » An LAF checkpoint between Orsal and Nabi fired heavy weapons and rocket-propelled Osman was attacked by gunmen who infiltrated grenades. the area in order to steal the soldiers' weapons. One of the soldiers, (Sunni) Atef Saadeddin from » Three militia leaders surrendered to LAF Akkar, was suspected of having facilitated the intelligence in Bab Tabeneh (Tripoli). They were attack on his colleagues before fleeing with involved in the clashes that injured eight soldiers the assailants. The suspicion was later proved and destroyed a military vehicle. correct when Saadeddin announced his defection in a video posted to the Internet. June 5 25 » Three Syrian civilian refugees and a Lebanese » An armed group attacked an LAF checkpoint civilian were wounded during a clash between outside Orsal, and the LAF responded in kind. the LAF and unidentified armed elements in Wadi Humayyed (Orsal). August 2 10 » Following the LAF's arrest of senior Islamist » A clash occurred between ISF members and Imad Ahmed Jumaa, armed groups composed several individuals on Syria Street (Tripoli) as raids of Jabhat an-Nusra and ISIL drove into Orsal were being conducted. in SUVs equipped with machine guns. The assailants attacked Orsal's police station and 14 took officers and members of the platoon » Shots were fired during an encounter prisoner. At about the same time, dozens of between the LAF and several individuals gunmen conducted a massive attack from the following the arrest of a criminal involved in Syrian side of the border against LAF positions on previous security incidents in Bab Tabeneh. the outskirts of Orsal. Several LAF members were killed and injured, and a dozen soldiers were 16 taken prisoner. This was the first such occurrence » The LAF placed a security cordon along in the history of the LAF. Churches Street in Zahriyeh (Tripoli) after an unidentified individual shot a soldier. 3 » A number of attacks were conducted by 20 masked gunmen against checkpoints and LAF » A suicide bomber blew up his Nissan Murano positions throughout the Bab Tabbeneh quarter at the Dahr al-Baydar checkpoint. Packed with of Tripoli. The clashes spread quickly to other 25 to 30 kilograms of explosives, the detonation troublesome quarters in the city. was timed to inflict damage on a passing convoy. Officer Mahmoud Jamaleddin was 5 killed and six soldiers manning the checkpoint » Clashes continued in Tripoli between the were wounded. Two other soldiers and 23 LAF elements and gunmen. A series of attacks civilians were injured as well. against LAF and ISF positions killed and injured several officials. July 19 6 » Several armed men attacked an LAF » An armed group of 15 individuals attacked checkpoint situated on Tripoli's main an LAF site near Kafar Zabad (central Bekaa). roundabout. One of the assailants was injured. » More attacks against LAF positions in Tripoli. » Gunmen targeted an LAF patrol on Syria Street in Tripoli, and an LAF installation on the 15 same street was bombed. » When an attempt was made in Sawiri (West Bekaa) to arrest an individual charged with 20 belonging to a "banned Islamist organization,” » A large ISF contingent raided a residential an exchange of gunfire took place. The compound in Tripoli to arrest terrorist Monzer individual escaped.

68 69 22 locales in Orsal. A number of Syrians were » An ISF patrol was fired on in Baalbek while arrested for monitoring the LAF centers and trying to enforce a construction violation. the movements of soldiers and vehicles. » Two LAF soldiers were wounded when a October bomb exploded at a checkpoint in the Talaat 2 al-Omari quarter of Tripoli. » Armed clashes took place between an LAF contingent and so-called smugglers on 28 the western slopes of Mount Hermon. » Gunmen ambushed an LAF patrol between Wadi Humayyed and Wadi ar-Rahwa outside 3 Orsal. One soldier was killed and another was » The LAF foiled the attempted bombing wounded. of a patrol sent to secure one of its positions September outside Orsal. The LAF detected a 50 kg IED several meters from an LAF checkpoint. 6 » An intelligence patrol was fired on in 9 al-Qaa. The patrol returned fire killing one, » An LAF position in Masyada (Orsal) was wounding another and arresting the third. The fired on from inside a nearby Syrian refugee three individuals were Syrian nationals. camp. 9 10 » Outlaws shot at an LAF patrol in Brital. A » An armed group fired on the LAF military vehicle was damaged and an LAF checkpoint in Talaat al-Omari (Tripoli), but no soldier was injured. injuries were reported.

17 11 » An LAF position in the Orsal countryside was » A hand grenade was thrown at an LAF fired on by armed assailants. checkpoint in Talaat al-Omari (Tripoli), but no injuries were reported. 19 » A remotely detonated bomb targeted 14 an LAF vehicle carrying seven passengers » An LAF patrol in Bab Tabbeneh (Tripoli) between Wadi Humayyed and Masyada was fired upon by unidentified assailants. (Orsal). Two soldiers were killed and three wounded. The LAF staged several raids in » Clashes occurred between the LAF and response, which resulted in the arrest of an armed group in Wadi ar-Rayan (outskirts several suspects. of Orsal). » Armed men targeted an LAF checkpoint in Tripoli with a rocket-propelled grenade. 17 » A military vehicle transporting soldiers was 23 ambushed on a side road that connects » An armed group fired on an LAF military Kawashra to Bireh (Akkar). One soldier was center in Beddawi (Tripoli) killing one soldier. killed in the attack. Raids were conducted on Syrian refugee settlements in the area, and 24 some 50 Syrians suspected of targeting the » An LAF soldier was wounded when three LAF were arrested. military positions in Tripoli were attacked by » Two LAF patrols were fired on in Bisar armed groups. (Tripoli), and a hand grenade was thrown at one of the LAF centers. 25 » A minor clash occurred between elements 22 of the LAF and Syrians affiliated with the pro- » A hand grenade was thrown at an LAF Syrian Social Nationalist Party on Hamra Street. checkpoint in Mankubin (Tripoli) by an The LAF was trying to arrest a Syrian member unidentified group of armed men. of the party, which led to the clash. » Following the attack on an LAF vehicle, 25 the LAF conducted patrols and raids of Syrian » The LAF clashed with a group of armed

70 71 men in Zahriyeh (Tripoli). Seven soldiers and November an officerwere injured as were a number of 5 civilians. » An LAF soldier was shot by two masked men » Two LAF officers and two soldiers were killed on a motorcycle in Orsal. when an LAF contingent was ambushed at 14 Dhour Dhour Muhammara. » Two LAF officers and a soldier were injured » In parallel with those two attacks (and when their military vehicle was struck by an IED probably in connection with them), a sizeable while en route to an LAF position outside Orsal. In fight took place in the village of Bhannin. A connection with the attack, the LAF announced group led by Sheikh Khaled Hoblos occupied that two more 15 kg IEDs had been discovered a school from which they attacked an LAF at the same location. patrol. Another group affiliated with Hoblos set up a checkpoint on the Bhannin Bridge from 23 which they attacked two military vehicles. » During raids in Akkar, the LAF arrested several Three soldiers were killed and four others were people suspected of participating in attacks injured. Additionally, several unarmed soldiers against the LAF in Bhannin and Muhammara. were abducted while returning home from duty, but they were later freed by the LAF. The 27 LAF reclaimed the bridge, apprehended the » An LAF military center in Sharawneh (Baalbek) armed men and pursued the Hoblos groups; was shot at by unidentified armed men. however, the incident marked a significant advancement in armed Islamist militancy in December north Lebanon. 2 » After being lured into an ambush that had 27 been set up outside Orsal, an LAF patrol was » Four soldiers were shot during an LAF search attacked. Six soldiers were killed, including a in Bhannin. lieutenant, and another soldier was wounded.

29 3 » The LAF raided various quarters of Tripoli » While disarming an explosive device and ultimately arrested a number of individuals discovered in Wadi Ata (outside Orsal), armed involved in attacks on the LAF in Bhannin and assailants killed an LAF explosives expert and Bab Tabbeneh. wounded two other soldiers.

70 71 Blank Page Bombs and Bombers: Reappearance of the Suicide Bomber/Martydom Seeker

On January 22, 2014, Hussein Against that backdrop, therefore, Sharafeddin was arrested at a Sharafeddin's arrest indicates more checkpoint in Haret Hreik, the heart than a prevailing prejudice among of Dahiyeh (Beirut's southern suburbs), those in charge of security in that when the security forces stationed locality. In fact, it demonstrates the there suspected him of being some tension and even paranoia these kind of terrorist. After being held for attacks continue to spread among several hours, however, Sharafeddin the areas and institutions that was transferred to the anti-terrorism continue to be targeted. unit and released the following day. What made this particular scare The use of explosives is generally exceptional was that Sharafeddin, a nothing unique in Lebanon’s history. local rapper also known as "Double While the attacks to which the A the Preacherman", simply had country has been subjected remain a penchant for wearing bulky “case studies” (such as the bombing clothing, and sported a full, bushy of the U.S. Marine barracks in 1983 beard!1 As a result, a substantial or the assassination of former Prime amount of criticism was heaped Minister Rafic Hariri in 2005), the on the security forces, much of seemingly “modest” explosion of which focused on them blindly July 3, 2013 (which injured 37 people accepting crude stereotypes.2 Yet and was timed to coincide with while this incident may seem trivial the beginning of the holy month and even somewhat comical, when of Ramadan) in a Bir el-Abed considered against the string of parking lot in what is considered suicide bombings that struck Lebanon an exceptionally secure area of between 2013 and 2014, it assumes Dahiyeh, deserves to be included far greater importance. Indeed, in the "landmark" bombings that one such bombing (which killed four punctuate Lebanon’s recent history.3 people and wounded 46 others) In fact, that event is important for took place in Haret Hreik just a day a number of reasons, such as where before Sharafeddin was arrested. and when it took place. According

1 http://noisey.vice.com/blog/meet-the-lebanese-rapper-who-was-mistaken-for-a-terrorist 2 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Jan-23/244999-bearded-rapper-detained- supporters-decry-profiling.ashx#axzz3Ck4A5Zyx 3 http://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/jul/09/beirut-car-bomb-hezbollah-stronghold

PB 73 to Hezbollah propaganda and conducted the attack in response the perception of a great many to Hezbollah’s involvement in Lebanese, Dahiyeh is a combination Syria.4 Further attacks confirmed of “forbidden city” and impregnable the supranational character of fortress. The sense of adventure this wave of violence and proved or fear Dahiyeh evokes is related conclusively the delusional nature of directly to its perceived security. the “disassociation” policy adopted After all, everything and everyone is by Lebanese lawmakers vis-à-vis constantly under electronic or human the Syrian conflict. On August 23, surveillance. Further, the timing of the 2013, a double attack was staged attack is especially telling. July 3, 2013 against Tripoli’s Sunni at-Taqwa and marked two months, almost to the as-Salam Mosques, which killed 42 day, after Hezbollah celebrated its people and injured at least 300 others. “victory” in al-Quseir, a strategic Syrian Subsequent investigations disclosed town located northeast of Lebanon. the involvement of Ali and Refaat Eid, Moreover, it was about two weeks the leaders of the pro-Assad Alawi after the Lebanese Armed Forces Arab Democratic Party—which also (LAF) assaulted the Saida stronghold insinuates some degree of complicity of Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir, a Salafi, anti- in the attacks by the Damascus Hezbollah, pro-Syrian lightning rod on regime. Also during August, a former the Lebanese scene. minister was arrested after being accused of plotting with Syrian Clearly, the location and timing of intelligence operatives to smuggle the July 3, 2013 bombing makes it explosives into Lebanon from Syria and a “turning point” in the complex planning a series of attacks against “spillover” effects from the war in clerics and politicians in northern Syria that have changed both the Lebanon to spark inter-sectarian "host nation" (Syria) and its next-door conflict. neighbor, Lebanon (e.g., refugees from Syria continue to stream into Notably, the bombings ultimately Lebanon while swarms of Lebanese underscored the impression that not fighters (among which the Shia far only is Lebanon at stake because outnumber the Sunni) continue to of regional conflicts, but it is also head to Syria!). Unfortunately, that the primary arena for such conflicts. "inaugural" attack did not hold that For instance, two high profile, credential very long. Less than two double suicide bombings targeted weeks later (August 15), the Dahiyeh Iranian institutions in Lebanon in quarter of Roueiss was hit by a car November 2013 and February 2014. bomb that killed 22 people and The first attack was focused on the injured some 290. Soon after, an Iranian Embassy while the second unknown group called “Aisha Um- struck the Iranian Cultural Center.5,6 al Mouemeneen” claimed that it Responsibility for the attacks, which

4 http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2013/08/2013815152140188564.html 5 http://country.eiu.com/article.aspx?articleid=221249806&Country=Iran&topic=Politics&subtopic=Fore cast 6 http://www.csmonitor.com/World/Security-Watch/terrorism-security/2014/0219/Suicide-bombers-in- Beirut-target-Iranian-cultural-center-video

74 75 caused extensive loss of life and chapter, however, will focus primarily material damage, was claimed by on attacks conducted to kill civilians the jihadi group Abdullah Azzam rather than members of the LAF. Brigades.7 In the meantime, attacks against Lebanese “civilian” targets Just Who Are the "New Bombers?" (primarily in Shia areas) continued, as While one of the pervasive themes in did those on non-civilian objectives. Lebanese political culture is to blame In fact, beyond the attacks that anything untoward that happens seem to have targeted civilians in the country on external factors exclusively, the LAF was also subjected or actors, the series of bombings to several bombings. The attacks (particularly the suicide operations are typically legitimized by the in 2013 – 2014) forced the Lebanese widespread perception that the LAF to consider revising that well-worn is implementing a partisan agenda approach. In fact, the bombings and that intersects with Hezbollah’s own other manifestations of sectarian schedule. LAF checkpoints in Saida, unrest that took place in 2013 – 2014 Hermel, Orsal and elsewhere were have emerged as a landmark in the certainly on the terrorist "target list," history of Lebanese militant Sunni which also included some less obvious, Islamism. Also unique has been the non-civilian targets apparently emergence of young Lebanese related to Hezbollah. On December Sunni clerics who, in contrast to 17, 2013, an explosion occurred near more traditional Lebanese Sunni a Hezbollah premises located in the clerics, appear increasingly similar to small village of Sbouba (Bekaa north). their peers in neighboring countries Information about the type of attack who are struggling with their own (suicide or not) and the resultant death "sects" of jihadi Islamists. Along those toll remained vague since Hezbollah lines, announcements by jihadi took control of the crime scene and groups in Iraq and Syria periodically removed all evidence before the LAF mentioned that a certain “Abou X, arrived.8 Sbouba is generally known as the Lebanese” led a suicide operation a "rotation area" for Hezbollah affiliates or had “fallen as a martyr” on some entering and leaving Syria.9 Similarly, a remote battleground. Yet 2013 was series of devices exploded at several the first time a Lebanese Sunni who points along the Bekaa section of the adopted jihadist ideology actually Beirut-Damascus Road. Although very piloted a booby-trapped car with little information was available about the express intent of killing his fellow those improvised explosive devices Lebanese. This new reality is unique because of the intentional blackout, it not just because of the ramifications has since become an open secret that it has on national security, but also for the targets were Hezbollah vehicles, what it represents from a competitive often civilian in nature, transporting standpoint over those simply seeking fighters between Beirut and Syria. This a "quick death." By extension, while

7 http://dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Feb-19/247793-twin-suicide-car-bombings-kill-five. ashx#axzz3AGmFAJW3 8 http://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/dec/17/lebanon-car-bomb-targets-hezbollah 9 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2013/Dec-17/241370-casualties-in-east-lebanon- blast-near-hezbollah-position-security.ashx#axzz3AG3vCF83

74 75 the identity of the bombers killed in narrative of Imam Hussein (who, on the attacks they perpetrated remains the battlefield on which he was killed unclear in several cases, most of those asked the leader of the opposing army, identified were local actors, such as "Are you trying to frighten me with Lebanese nationals and Palestinian the [likelihood] that I may die [in this refugees residing in Lebanon. That fight]?") was once a pillar of its strength much became evident following the in fighting the Israeli occupation. first bombing at the Iranian Embassy in As long as Hezbollah maintained November 2013, an attack carried out a monopoly on "death seeking" by a Lebanese and a Palestinian. That among the Lebanese, its capacity disclosure prompted the Daily Star to to deter a given condition remained publish an article about the potential unchallenged. Conversely, once it for increased "homegrown terrorism," lost that monopoly domestically and largely a result of increasing Sunni other non-Shia, non-Hezbollah affiliated resentment of Hezbollah’s role in the Lebanese began fighting—using Syrian war.10 According to the article, intimidation and/or murder—for causes these conditions prompted concern other than those Hezbollah espouses, for a number of reasons, one of which Lebanon was forced to confront a new is that "homegrown" recruits are more reality in terms of security and culture. knowledgeable about the local area, do not need to be ferried across Ultimately, "death seekers" who lay borders and are readily available. down their lives for conflicting causes Evidently, those concerns proved well cannot be described adequately by founded, as Lebanese and Palestinians language alone. For instance, Arabic ultimately conducted many more has an extremely flexible system of attacks. declination, such that a "death seeker" who makes his (or her) decision to die Each November 11, Hezbollah for a "good" cause is also a "martyrdom commemorates “Shaheed Day.” seeker." But if he or she chooses to die Interestingly, the "martyr" for whom for a "bad" cause, then the individual the event was dedicated is Ahmad is referred to simply as a "suicide Kassir, who destroyed the Israel Defense seeker." This rather subjective approach Forces headquarters in Tyr (southern generally follows a statement made by Lebanon) after driving an explosive- Omar bin al-Khattab, who became the laden car into it on November 11, second Khalifa: "Our dead will go to 1982. It is not coincidental that heaven, their dead to hell." Hezbollah literature refers to Kassir as "the man who ushered in the era of One of the most immediate questions the martyrdom seeker." Indeed, the list prompted by this spate of attacks of “martyrdom seekers” who traveled is why they are suicidal in nature. on foot or in cars and trucks is long. Lebanon has a long history of bombings Moreover, we must acknowledge since hostilities in the country ended that Hezbollah's combat creed, which formally in 1990, yet few (if any) of is rooted in the mythical/historical those bombings were of the suicide

10 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Analysis/2013/Nov-25/238800-homegrown-terrorism-taking-hold-in- lebanon.ashx#axzz2lftW0TUu

76 77 variety. In fact, Israel's Institute for that a "new wave" of suicide bombers National Security Studies reported would soon appear. The fact that that Lebanon "for years was free of those experts were so profoundly this phenomenon."11 Bombings that wrong may again be indicative of just occurred before 2013 were most often how alien the phenomenon of suicide associated with political assassinations attacks had become in Lebanon, to that either did not suit suicide tactics say nothing of the dramatic changes or failed to interest the groups that in the country's political and security employed such methods. The sources environment that facilitated their consulted in the preparation of reappearance. this work contained relatively little analysis of the changed nature of A Pause in the Bombings these attacks, but the likelihood of a Another subject that warrants fundamental cause does exist. Attacks investigation is the eight-week pause in Lebanon against Hezbollah and in the bombings that occurred from its allies began in June 2013, about March 29 to June 20, 2014. Several a month after Hezbollah announced sources cited the LAF's "security that it was fighting alongside the crackdown" as one reason for Syrian regime. As noted, those attacks the cessation (aided by the long- persisted for nearly a year before awaited formation of Lebanon's they became suicidal in nature that new government), in addition to the November. Thus, it is relatively easy to recapture by Syrian regime forces speculate that Hezbollah's involvement and Hezbollah of towns used as bases in the crisis drew the ire of groups that for extremists conducting attacks in employ and are extremely well versed Lebanon.12 But since the pause was in suicide tactics. Similarly, the LAF has short lived, experts identified a range been targeted frequently, most likely of elements that contributed to the because of its role in fighting extremist resurgence in bombing attacks.13,14 One groups in Lebanon and its perceived security source was quoted as having collaboration with Hezbollah. In other remarked that due to the pressure words, suicide attacks emerged on the border (noted above), many because a different set of attackers militants fled to Lebanon's interior was attracted once Lebanese factions to continue their operations.15 That became involved in the Syrian crisis. observation could be corroborated by a security report obtained by The Notably, although two of the Daily Star in July 2014, which notes an three experts quoted in the article increased number of Jabhat an-Nusra highlighted the dangers of homegrown members in Lebanon, individuals who terrorism, they also expressed doubt have since made preparations for

11 http://www.inss.org.il/index.aspx?id=4538&articleid=6408 12 http://www.csmonitor.com/World/Middle-East/2014/0626/Suicide-bombers-bring-Iraq-conflict-ever- closer-to-Lebanon 13 http://english.alarabiya.net/en/perspective/analysis/2014/06/24/Is-ISIS-behind-the-Beirut-bombing-. html 14 At the time of this writing, no further suicide attacks have occurred. Yet while that pause may imply that the factors mentioned are effective, it would be inaccurate to consider the interruption definitive. 15 Ibid.

76 77 numerous suicide attacks. Another Hussein Sharafeddin, whose choice factor mentioned frequently as a of clothing and grooming style reason for the resurgence of suicide contributed directly to his arrest. In bombings relates to the recent today's "version" of Lebanon, which advances made by ISIL in Syria and continues to experience more than its Iraq. Based solely on the sources share of bombings, an atmosphere of consulted in this report, it may be fear and suspicion among residents impossible to ascertain the degree and security services exists, particularly to which ISIL has been involved in in the areas targeted most frequently. the suicide bombing campaign in Consider this new reality: on January Lebanon or when its involvement may 23, Hezbollah established checkpoints have begun. Yet the group claimed in the southern suburbs following responsibility for previous attacks in rumors that two cars were rigged to Lebanon and has been linked (though explode. Unfounded reports being accounts vary) to the Abdullah Azzam circulated on the WhatsApp mobile Brigades and Liwaa Ahrar al-Sunna, messaging service indicated that both of which conducted or claim Hezbollah was warning residents to to have conducted attacks.16,17,18 stay clear of certain areas (though Apparently, ISIL was strongly linked Hezbollah chose not to validate that to the June attack on Beirut's Duroy notice). Fortunately, the anticipated Hotel.19,20 Thus, it is possible the bombings never materialized, but resurgence occurred because an the warnings being circulated emboldened ISIL wanted to stage certainly caused angst and disrupted an even greater demonstration of commerce—likely another (intended) its power and influence by focusing outcome of the bombing campaign. at least some attention on Lebanon. A similar situation occurred on June Nevertheless, even if the group was 20, 2014 following the bombing at the not directly involved, those who Dahr al-Baydar checkpoint on the perpetrated the June attacks were Beirut-Damascus Road. Now Media likely encouraged by its success. That reported that Dahiyeh's streets were outcome is also a future concern emptying and referenced a radio noted by Lebanese Foreign Minister report of imminent road closures Nohad Machnouk in July 2014 when he throughout the country in anticipation warned that other jihadists are likely to of other bombs set to explode in gain inspiration from ISIL.21 several neighborhoods. It must be noted, however, that two subsequent Rumors Spread, Fear bombings did occur on June 24 and Increases and Life Changes 25, though it remains unclear if the This chapter began with an initial reaction to the bombing on June explanation of the arrest of rapper 20 was based on information that

16 http://english.al-akhbar.com/node/17660 17 https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/lebanonnews/539597-free-sunnis-of-baalbek-fire-back-at-al-nusra- front 18 https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/news/middle-east/12288-lebanon-concerned-about-a- potential-isis-attack 19 http://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/isis-suicide-bomber-blows-part-beirut-hotel-official-n140736 20 http://www.haaretz.com/news/middle-east/1.601892 21 http://rt.com/news/171892-lebanon-isis-terrorism-hotel/

78 79 related to the bombings that followed. is understandable given the current Importantly, public scares are not circumstances, it is nevertheless limited to the days in the immediate evidence that the bombings are aftermath of an actual explosion. fulfilling at least part of their purpose: An Integrated Regional Information beyond simply reminding everyone Networks (IRIN) report highlights the that Lebanon is part of the larger frequency with which alarms occur regional theater of operations, and includes an interview with a the attacks are forcing changes Dahiyeh resident who related that to the modus vivendi in targeted such scares are now "a normal part area and others that could be of daily life." According to the IRIN targeted. Moreover, those changes report, both conditions are indicative also exact social and economic of a "growing community psychosis."22 consequences. In that sense, and Many other reports focused on as long as Lebanon remains actively the issue include interviews with or passively involved in the conflicts residents who explain that they are of other nations, the likelihood that living in fear, the effects of which this type of violence will become are damaging their local society increasingly fashionable seems a and economy. But while such fear foregone conclusion.

22 http://www.irinnews.org/report/99844/fear-stalks-beirut-s-shia-suburbs

78 79 Blank Page Chronology of Major Incidents Involving Bombings and Booby-Trapped Cars

2013 February it was their second operation. The narrator, 2 whose accent was not Lebanese, promised » Numerous Hezbollah elements responded more explosions against Hezbollah and Iranian to a suspected booby-trapped car in interests in Lebanon. Dahiyeh. » Lebanese intelligence arrested a Syrian national suspected in the first explosion that June occurred in Bir el-Abed. Also arrested was a 13 Lebanese from Orsal, Hassan Hussein Rayed, » A suspected booby-trapped car was who confessed to having participated with detected near the Arab University in Tarik Ahmad al-Atrash (also from Orsal) and others in Jdide. several terrorist acts, including booby-trapped cars. July 9 17 » A booby-trapped car exploded in a » Security information indicated that a parking lot in Bir el-Abed (Dahiyeh) injuring 53 suspected booby-trapped car was parked people. a hundred meters away from the home of acting General Director of the Internal Security August Forces (ISF) Brigadier Basbous in Shhim (Chouf). 5 A stick of dynamite connected to a manual » A suspect in the 2010 murder of an LAF detonator was ultimately discovered in the officer (and other crimes) was arrested in car, but Basbous denied that he was being Sunni Majdal Anjar (Bekaa). Investigation targeted. disclosed that the car in which he was riding was booby trapped and prepared for » Information about a car parked in a explosion. residential area in Sunni Naameh (south of Beirut) led to the discovery of some 250 kilograms of explosives inside the vehicle. 15 » A booby-trapped car exploded on Roueiss 19 Street (Dahiyeh) killing 25 people and injuring » A meeting held in Naameh to discuss the 290 others. It was estimated that the car explosive-laden car (referenced above) was contained some 60 kilograms of explosive attended by the village mayor, municipality materials. members and other notables. A statement issued later indicated, “Everyone present [at 16 this meeting] denounces the presence of the » An unknown Sunni group which calls itself booby-trapped car and considers it a violation Saraya Aishaa Oum al-Moeminin (Aisha of security and a threat to the civil peace. Divisions) uploaded a video to YouTube which Naameh has always advocated coexistence.” announced that the group was responsible for the explosion on Roueiss Street and that » General Security arrested a terrorist cell

PB 81 in Naameh, three members of which were 26 suspected of planning to detonate booby- » A suspected booby-trapped car parked near trapped cars. No exact information was one of the orchards in Kaabarin (Akkar) was available about whether the explosive-laden checked for explosives; however, none were car found in Naameh arrived at its destination found. via the Ain al-Helwe refugee camp in Saida. General Security announced that a Lebanese 28 and two Palestinians had been arrested as » A hand grenade was found inside the suspects in planning to detonate the car. engine compartment of a vehicle in Tyr. The vehicle was owned by the leader of a pro- 21 Syrian regime organization. » The ISF arrested more suspects in the Naameh car incident, thus bringing the total to October seven, including two Palestinians. 14 » A booby-trapped car discovered in 23 Maamoura (Dahiyeh) contained a huge » Two booby-trapped cars targeted a pair of amount of explosives. The LAF dismantled it mosques in Tripoli. Forty people were killed and safely. about 500 were injured. » An explosion heard in Sanayieh (Beirut) was 21 caused by members of the security forces » A security report signed by several airport who used a small detonator to open a car security seniors was leaked to social media with Syrian tags. The car did not contain any networks. It stated that there were four booby- explosives. trapped cars driving on Lebanese roads. The document also stated that the cars had been 24 rigged by An-Nusra Front. The leak appears to » The LAF identified a suspected booby- be the result of joint work between the various trapped car in Rmaileh (south of Beirut). Lebanese security agencies. Although the car proved to be safe, it had been stolen. Another stolen car suspected of November having been booby trapped was discovered 14 near (Sunni) Barja cemetery. Investigation » A suspected booby-trapped car was disclosed that it contained no explosives. discovered in Bekaa north between the two Shia villages of Bazzaliyyeh and Harbata. 26 » A pickup truck headed towards Baalbek 19 and loaded with vegetables was detained at » A suicide bomber blew himself up near the an LAF checkpoint. The LAF did not disclose main gate of the Iranian Embassy in Bir Hassan the contents of the boxes. The driver was (Dahiyeh). The explosions killed 23 people and arrested as was an unidentified individual riding injured more than 150, including an Iranian in a van. Security information disclosed that the diplomat. individual was associated with the detained truck, which was thought to be transporting 22 explosive materials. » The LAF claims to have intercepted a booby- trapped car filled with hundreds of kilograms of 30 explosive materials and rockets, thus making it » The LAF suspected that a booby-trapped extremely lethal. The car was allegedly en route car was parked near the main square of Saida. to Beirut from Syria. Since the owner had not been identified, they broke the glass to inspect the vehicle but 23 found nothing suspicious. » Security forces investigated a suspected booby-trapped car near the governorate September of Nabatiyeh, but subsequent investigation 2 proved that it was free of explosives. » A suspected booby-trapped car was discovered in Bkarzela (Akkar), but further 25 investigation proved that it was free of » The suicide bombers at the Iranian Embassy explosives. were identified as Lebanese Moein Abou Daher

82 83 (from Saida) and Palestinian Adnan Moussa al- 23 Ahmad (from Baysariyye in Zahrani). » A parked car with an An-Nusra flag on the windshield was spotted near the Corniche in 26 Tyr. Several passersby became panicked, but » Security forces suspected that a car parked specialists found no explosives. The car was near a gas station at the southern entrance to stolen in Saida. Baalbek had been booby trapped. Although the vehicle contained no explosives, the driver 26 was arrested for drugs and possession of a » A suspected booby-trapped truck in weapon. downtown Beirut proved free of explosives after having been checked. December 8 27 » Al-Manar TV news showed the Syrian army » A booby-trapped car exploded in allegedly capturing four booby-trapped cars downtown Beirut. The several people killed in al-Nabk city (Qalamoun). According to the included Mohamad Chatah, a former minister same source, the vehicles were to be sent to and Saad Hariri consultant. Seventy other Lebanon via Orsal. One of the cars was an people were injured. ambulance. 31 14 » A suspected booby-trapped car was » Security forces identified a suspected booby- spotted in Chiyah (Dahiyeh). Two sticks of trapped car that had been parked for two days dynamite connected to a detonator were at a roundabout in Saida. Although the car found inside. contained no explosives, it had been described as having been stolen. » LAF intelligence released Palestinian senior security officer Talal al-Ordony after taking 18 his statement about the car bomb that killed » A suspected booby-trapped car parked near former minister Mohammad Chatah. al-Ordony a graveyard in Saida was investigated, but no had been turned over to intelligence earlier by explosives were found. Fateh Movement.

2014 January in Haret Hreik in a booby-trapped car loaded 2 with 120 mm and 130 mm shells. The explosion » A suicide bomber blew up himself while killed three people, injured 46 and caused driving a booby-trapped car in Haret Hreik considerable damage to the surrounding (Dahiyeh). The explosion killed five people and buildings. injured 70. February 3 13 » A suicide bomber blew himself up in a van » A suspected booby-trapped car was parked near Chouaifat (south Beirut). The belt investigated in Tripoli, but it contained no he was wearing contained five kilograms of explosives. explosives, which injured two people.

16 19 » A booby-trapped car exploded outside » A twin suicide bombing took place at the Hermel’s Governorate (Bekaa north). The Iranian Cultural Chancellery in Bir Hassan explosion killed four people and injured dozens killing five people and injuring 128 others. of others. The Abdullah Azzam Brigades claimed responsibility for the attack, saying that it was 21 in response to Hezbollah’s involvement in » A twentieth suicide bomber blew himself up Syria.

82 83 28 responsible for transporting explosives to the » Security forces noted a suspected booby- two Saudi suicide bombers discovered in the trapped car in Tyr, but no explosives were hotel. found. July March 1 7 » The LAF suspected that a car with Syrian » The ISF noted a suspected booby-trapped tags parked near the Navy base in Sayfi car at an entrance to its central barracks in (Beirut) had been booby trapped, but no west Beirut (near the Russian Embassy). No explosives were found. explosives were found. 2 16 » The ISF suspected that a car with false tags » A suicide bomber driving a booby-trapped parked in Saida had been booby trapped, car blew himself up in the predominantly Shia and an investigation ensued. Bekaa village of Nabi Sheet as he was being investigated by a Hezbollah security patrol. The 31 explosion caused the deaths of two members » A car suspected of having been booby of the Hezbollah security patrol, and 14 others trapped was observed in Tripoli. The LAF were injured. blocked off the area until an EOD expert arrived. April 1 September » The LAF claimed that one of its EOD 11 technicians disabled a booby-trapped car » The LAF disclosed that soldiers manning driven by a suicide bomber in Wadi Humayyed a checkpoint near Orsal suspected a car (outside Orsal). The car contained 120 of having been booby trapped. Later kilograms of highly flammable materials and an examination confirmed that 100 kilograms of artillery shell connected to a detonator. explosives were inside the vehicle.

June 12 21 » The LAF claims to have dismantled a » A suspected booby-trapped car in Tripoli 250-kilogram bomb discovered in Sahet al- was observed, and the LAF blocked the area Shohada (Saida). until an EOD expert arrived. 21 23 » A suicide bomber blew himself up inside a » A suicide bomber blew himself up inside booby-trapped car at a Hezbollah checkpoint the booby-trapped car he was driving outside in northern Bekaa on the road between the northern entrance to Dahiyeh. The site Khraybeh and Ham. Several people were killed was close to an army checkpoint. An off-duty and injured. member of General Security was killed and 15 people were injured. 22 » The LAF noticed a suspicious suitcase in 25 the Sunni Bekaa village of Kobb Elias. Further » LAF EOD experts examined a suspected examination concluded that it contained no booby-trapped car in Tripoli. explosives.

26 30 A suicide bomber detonated his vest inside » The LAF blocked a road in Shia Yohmor the Duroy Hotel in Rawshe (Beirut beach). (western Bekaa) after observing a suspicious The explosion occurred during a raid being car. Examination confirmed that it contained conducted by elements of the General no explosives. Security forces. A General Security forces captain, two other General Security individuals October and eight civilians were injured. Lebanese 3 General Security disclosed the identity of » The LAF said that one of its patrols a Lebanese partner in the cell who was discovered a 50-kilogram explosive device

84 85 near Orsal. The explosives, which had been school of the Lebanese University in west placed in a garbage container, were disabled Beirut. by an EOD expert. 30 17 A suspected booby-trapped car was believed » A suspicious suitcase was seen near the to have been spotted east of Saida. Shakdouk cemetery in Akkar. Examination confirmed that it contained no explosives. December 7 26 » A car suspected of having been booby » The security services reported that they trapped was observed in Tripoli's main square, intercepted a booby-trapped car near a but subsequent investigation confirmed that it warehouse in Tripoli. It was later discovered contained no explosives. that the building contained numerous types of explosives and weapons, as well as 50 8 explosive devices ready for use. » The legs of Orsal resident Jihad Ezzeddin were blown off when he started his booby- 27 trapped car. The explosion took place in Orsal, » A suspicious suitcase was discovered in 150 meters away from the municipality offices. Saida's main square, but no explosives were found. 14 » A suspected booby-trapped car was 29 observed in Tripoli's main square. The LAF » A suspected booby-trapped car adorned blocked off the area but found no explosives with Syrian tags was spotted near the media in the vehicle.

84 85 Blank Page Assassinations and Attempted Assassinations

If a Lebanese were asked to recall At the same time, we cannot deny that some of those who fell victim all attempts, real or imagined, fall within to assassins or those targeted that category. Our proof is offered in unsuccessfully by predators from 2013 two instances noted in the list below in – 2014, it is quite likely that only one which the individual targeted survived or two names would come to mind. the first attempt but not the second…. Topping the list, however, would be former Minister of Finance and pro- Several explanations can be given Hariri strategist Mohamad Chatah. for the fame gained posthumously That immediate recall probably stems by Mohammad Chatah, such as the from the fact that compared to other offices he held while he was alive assassinations and attempts included in and the roles he played (most often relatively common groupings, Chatah's discretely) in the inner workings of the death seems to have fallen (ostensibly) country. More importantly, however, into an easily recognizable list: the Chatah's assassination occurred in March 14 or pro-March 14 politicians the heart of Beirut, not far from where and intellectuals assassinated since former Prime Minister Rafic Hariri was 2005. killed on February 14, 2005. Another peculiarity of Chatah's assassination Before moving forward with this is the exceptionally high level of discussion, we need to explain our professionalism demonstrated by the decision to merge assassinations assailants. For instance, despite the fact and attempted assassinations into a that the Beirut area in which the attack single category. Ultimately, while the took place is flush with surveillance outcome of an assassination is certainly cameras and other devices, no trace quite dissimilar to a mere attempt— of the assailants' identity has been especially if the individual being found. In addition, according to some targeted escapes unharmed—the two experts, the specific approach used to categories are related from a political target Chatah made his assassination perspective. This is because the acts (regardless of the human and collateral convey the same violent message: material damage) seem like a "surgical the action was taken as a “last resort.” procedure" as opposed to assassination Obviously, we can also assume that a by car bomb. so-called "attempted assassination" is often a good way to attract attention. Even though Chatah was assassinated

PB 87 on December 27, 2013, the (albeit cynically) that the Christians investigation remains in limbo, and it were largely absent. does not appear that it will gain any momentum in the near future. In a Regardless of the size of the “statistical curious coincidence, his assassination population” involved, the assassinations occurred just two weeks prior to the that occurred from 2013 to 2014 official opening of the Special Tribunal sometimes paralleled the fault lines for Lebanon, which also coincided that were "active" during that period with the first hints of de-escalation (in Tripoli, Alawi vs. Sunni, and in the Ain between the Future Movement and al-Helwe camp, pro-Fatah vs. Islamist). Hezbollah. Although intimations of Aside from those easily recognizable the assassination seem to have been fault lines, however, the record of apparent, they remain unproven by assassinations/assassination attempts investigation, and thus are nothing helps us identify some of the other, more than speculation. In contrast to less recognizable fault lines. Consider, the assassination of Wissam al-Hassan a for instance, the bloody showdown year earlier, Chatah's brutal death did within the Sunni communities between not produce an outpouring of public those who stand with “the resistance” emotion, even among the members of (Hezbollah) and those who identify with the camp to which he belonged. the various “Salafi” trends. Although that showdown is easily seen in Tripoli, Where other assassinations and it seems that in the Ain al-Helwe attempts are concerned, it is important camp where several “unexplained” to note that almost all of the individuals assassinations occurred, Hayya Bina's targeted—or alleged to have been sources indicated that some degree of targeted—were (with one notable “internal cleansing” had taken place. exception) “Muslims,” overwhelming numbers of which were Sunni Muslims Another less visible fault line lies (including several clerics). Despite within the Shia community between those observations, it may be an Hezbollah and its opponents. And exaggeration to conclude that these while both cases featured in the list statistics demonstrate conclusively that follows may be attributed to that the fight among “Muslims” (Sunni, acts of “intimidation” (regardless of Shia, Alawi, etc.) is a fight to the death. the fact that one such case resulted Moreover, it proves that Lebanon's in the death of an individual), they Christians are no longer viable "players" help illustrate the often neglected in "the Lebanese game." Indeed, based strife associated with influencing the on events that occurred during the Shia community's assimilation into period 2013 – 2014, we acknowledge Hezbollah—and vice versa.

88 PB Chronology of Major Assassinations and Attempted Assassinations

2013 January early morning, pro-Hezbollah Sunni Sheikh 19 Maher Hammoud and his guards were shot at. » Minister Faisal Karameh's convoy was fired on in Tripoli during a sit-in organized by Islamists. 10 One of the cars was burned and a gun was » Hachem Salman, president of the student pointed at the minister's head. chapter of an anti-Hezbollah group, was killed during a demonstration held outside March the Iranian Embassy to protest Hezbollah’s 6 involvement in the Syrian war. Salman's » Abedallatif Saleh, the media officer for the family and the group to which he belonged Alawi Democratic Party, confirmed that an confirmed that the killing was a premeditated assassination attempt had been made on Zulfikar assassination. Eid (the brother of political bureau chief Rifaat Eid) in the Sunni quarter of Qobbe (Tripoli). 12 » Ahmad Houjeiri (a brother of Salafi Sheikh 12 Mostafa Houjeiri, who is known to be well » Islamist Palestinian Bilal Bader was shot at connected with the Syrian rebels in the in the Ain Al-Helwe refugee camp (Saida). Qalamoun region) was killed in the Shia region His brother and four Palestinian civilians were of Hermel by unidentified assailants. wounded. In a different incident at the same location, a Fatah member was shot dead. 18 » Fatah member Ahmad Sheikhan was shot April dead at the Ain Al-Helwe refugee camp. 2 Islamist Bilal Bader was accused of the » As Sheikh Salem Al-Rafii was leaving the assassination. Takwa Mosque in Tripoli, an unidentified person fired at him; however, only the mosque's wall 19 was hit. Sheikh Al-Rafii explained that he » Tripoli-based Salafi Movement leader Sheikh was shot at due to his support of the Syrian Ash-Shahhal claimed that he was the target of Revolution. an assassination attempt at an LAF checkpoint.

May July 30 16 » Anti-Hezbollah writer Rami Oleik reported that » Pro-Assad Syrian journalist M. D. Jammo he was ambushed outside the entrance to his was assassinated. While the assassination was home in Yehmour. immediately considered a “political crime” (and theories began to emerge quickly June based on that assumption), the police soon 4 discovered that Jammo was killed by members » En route to the Quds Mosque (Saida) in the of his wife’s family.

PB 89 August that an explosive device placed inside a car 12 was responsible; however, another version is » After an exchange of kidnap victims that the car in which he was riding was hit by a between Sunni notables from Orsal and Shia rocket. notables from Mokdad family in the Christian village of Ras Baalbek, the convoy returning to 25 Orsal was shot at in a Shia area. One passenger » A member of the Ain al-Helwe camp security was killed and three others were injured. committee was assassinated.

23 November » Hezbollah supporters Hussam and 13 Hisham al-Moury were shot at in Tripoli by an » Tripoli-based Sunni pro-Hezbollah Sheikh unidentified person on a motorcycle. Hussam Saadeddin Ghiyyeh, who escaped assassination was killed and Hisham was injured. The family, in September (see entry, above) was shot dead which maintains a clannish structure, responded in Tripoli by two men on a motorcycle. by killing a policeman from another anti- Hezbollah Sunni family. December 3 September » Senior Fatah member Mohammad al-Saadi 9 was assassinated in the Ain al-Helwe refugee » More Sunni infighting occurred in Tripoli. Two camp. attempted assassinations were focused on pro- Syrian individuals, the son of a sheikh and the 4 other an actual sheikh. The latter, Saadeddin » During the funeral for Palestinian Mohammad Ghiyyeh, would ultimately fall victim to an al-Saadi in the Ain al-Helwe refugee camp, assassin in November of the same year. an explosion injured four people and killed the person planting the device. 29 » A hand grenade was found in the engine 5 compartment of a car that belonged to a » Hezbollah air defense system commander member of the pro-Assad Arab Socialist Baath Hassan Haulo Al-Lakkis was assassinated in the Party in Tyre. parking lot of his building near Beirut’s southern suburb. October 12 28 » The prime suspect in two explosions in » Former minister and Saad Hariri consultant Dahiyeh (Rweis and Bir al-Abed), Omar Mohammed Chatah was killed along with al-Atrash, was killed under ambiguous others when a booby-trapped car exploded in circumstances. Some information indicated downtown Beirut. 2014 February 24 3 » Ain al-Helwe experienced more tension » A taxi driver, inexplicably murdered in Ain following the assassination of Palestinian el-Helwe, created significant tension within the Abdallah Sariyyah inside the camp. Sariyyah camp. He was apparently suspected of being a was a cousin of one of the suicide bombers Hezbollah operative. who attacked the Iranian cultural center that same day. 21 » Senior Alawi Arab Democratic Party member March Abdel-Rahman Youssef Diab was shot and killed 11 in Tripoli. Diab was the father of Youssef Diab, who » Palestinian National Security Advisor Jmail was arrested on suspicion of bombing the Takwa Zaidan was assassinated near his home in Ain and Salam Mosques there on August 23, 2013. Al-Helwe refugee camp.

90 91 14 survived another assassination attempt when » Walid Barhoum, an Alawi from Jabal Mohsen, an explosion targeted him in the Ain al-Helwe was shot to death in a Sunni quarter of Tripoli. refugee camp. Evidently, al-Ordony is not especially well liked 27 by his colleagues or the Islamists in the camp. » Hassan Mazloum, an Alawi from Jabal Mohsen, was shot dead while driving his car in August Tripoli. 10 » Nawfal Daou, a March 14 Christian figure, was April reportedly ambushed while driving near Baalbek. 10 Other sources mentioned that the situation » In the Ain al-Helwe refugee camp, a masked related to the attempted theft of his car. man opened fire on Sheikh Arsan Sleiman, a member of an anti-Salafi Sunni association. The October sheikh was seriously injured. 9 » Ain Al-Helwe Palestinian Walid Yassine, a 16 Fatah member, was assassinated in his shop by » Sheikh Arsan Sleiman died six days after he masked men. was shot (see April 10 entry, above).

November 22 26 » Ali Khalil, a bodyguard for Islamist figure Oussama Ash-Shehabi, and his nephew were » Palestinian Abed Fodda, a member of the shot dead by an unidentified assailant in the Ain Islamist group Jund esh-Sham, survived an Al-Helwe refugee camp (Saida). assassination attempt. A masked individual shot at him in a neighborhood of the Ain al-Helwe May refugee camp. 9 » The Ain al-Helwe refugee camp experienced December more strife following the attempted assassination 1 of pro-Islamist Palestinian Alaa Houjair near his » Pro-Hezbollah Palestinian Sunni Sheikh shop at the vegetable market entrance. Mohammad Mawa’d, a member of the Palestinian Scholars Council, was targeted for 20 assassination in the Ain al-Helwe refugee camp » Senior Fatah member Talal al-Ordony but suffered only a wounded hand.

90 91 Blank Page Kidnapping: A "Civil War" Legacy Still Being Tolerated

Nothing could provide a better, more On January 21, 2000, after years cynical introduction to this chapter, of advocacy, the Lebanese Abductions, than to remind readers government seated a commission that the "art and politics of abduction" to investigate the fate of everyone in Lebanon is indeed still flourishing. who disappeared during the civil At the time of this writing, in fact, five war. Regardless of the swirling Czech nationals kidnapped on July debate over the commission 18, 2015 have not yet been freed. and the criticism it received, the Curiously—owing most likely to both the documents related to its work were political background of the incident ultimately released to the prime and the frequency of abductions minister’s office. The act, of course, in Lebanon—not a lot of "noise" has was just one chapter in a much been made about this latest crime longer story that certainly did not in either the Czech or the Lebanese end on April 4, 2014, the day the media.1 In an effort to downplay State council ordered the prime the patently criminal nature of the minister’s office to release those situation, it appears that most of the documents to the two organizations players involved on the global stage that represent the families of the simply prefer to let things move at disappeared. Moreover, despite their own pace in this latest incident. the families learning through their Looking at this from a somewhat representatives that the so-called different perspective, however, it "trophy" was all but meaningless, seems that Lebanon, a country that it demonstrates that this event, has never even bothered to produce celebrated by human rights an accurate tally of the people who defenders as veneration of the right went missing during its civil war (which to know, says volumes about the ended officially in 1990 with the Taif offhand method used by Lebanese Agreement) has finally seized upon a authorities to handle this sensitive way to deal with this abduction in a issue.3 Indeed, "the missing" is one of the relatively “casual” fashion.2 most persistently painful legacies of the

1 Czech News Agency. "Police release photos of Czechs missing in Lebanon." Prague Post. July 31, 2015. http://www.praguepost.com/world-news/49101-police-release-photos-of-czechs-missing-in-lebanon 2 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2015/Jul-20/307393-mystery-shrouds-case-of-five- abducted-czechs.ashx 3 "…some 20 years after the end of the civil war, the Lebanese state has generally failed to conduct

PB 93 civil war, and it just may explain why does not occur in a vacuum; rather, abduction is not always viewed as a it is “tolerated” (and thus continues) crime that can never happen again.4 because of certain protections offered to kidnappers, which creates a sense Having used an analysis of the of “political criminality.” Importantly, kidnappings that occurred in Lebanon this corruption has spawned an during 2013 and 2014 as a case atmosphere in which not merely study, we eventually produced kidnapping, but a variety of criminal a taxonomy of the most current activities prospers, including the theft instances of abduction. Above all and of cars later used as car bombs.5 as referenced above, kidnapping remains one of the most common and Three different types of kidnappings economically viable forms of violence in accounted for most of the abductions Lebanon. Indeed, the "art" of abduction that occurred in Lebanon during 2013 eventually coalesced into something and 2014. Notably, the abduction of akin to a business model for certain Turkish pilots Murat Akpinar and Murat nefarious groups, most of which have Agca (who were kidnapped in August been situated in the predominantly 2013 under conditions very similar to Shia area of the northern Bekaa. the ongoing Czech "drama") fits into Although many Lebanese are quick a rather exclusive category since it is to condemn this seemingly common reminiscent of the “political” abductions practice, the truth is that even the that were common in Lebanon during well-worn kidnapping-for-ransom the 1980s.6,7 A primary characteristic scheme enjoys a fair amount of political of this style of abduction is that it protection—or at the very least, passive attempts to meddle in State affairs, and protection. Yet in the northern Bekaa, it appears this crime was perpetrated the stronghold of the country's two to coerce the Turkish government dominant Shia organizations (Hezbollah to pressure a Syrian group linked to and Amal), kidnapping for ransom the kidnapping of several Lebanese

exhumations at mass graves from the period, even where their presence has been officially acknowledged. The Lebanese authorities must proceed without delay to investigate all mass grave sites in the country so that the ordeal of all families waiting for news about relatives missing since the civil war can finally learn the truth about their fate." Excerpt from a public statement released by Amnesty International on November 24, 2009 following the discovery of the remains of British journalist Alec Collett, who was abducted in Beirut in 1985 (www.amnesty.org). 4 The Committee of the Families of Kidnapped and Disappeared in Lebanon held a press conference on September 25, 2014 to express their disappointment. An-Nahar, September 26, 2014. 5 On February 19, 2014, pro-Future Movement Minister of Interior Nohad Mashnouk made a statement in which he implicitly requested that Hezbollah close the “death passages” between Lebanon and Syria. According to a report in pro-Hezbollah al-Akhbar, Minister Machnouk based his statement on a report produced by the intelligence directorate of the Internal Security Forces, which accused a gang led by a Brital resident (a village located east of Lebanon along the Lebanese/Syrian border) of selling stolen cars and counterfeiting Lebanese vehicle license plates for their Syrian peers on the other side of the border. In turn, the Syrians gave them to terrorist groups who eventually send them back to Lebanon. According to that report, most of the cars that had been booby trapped generally followed that route. Al-Akhbar added that the Brital gang and its leader “pay no attention to the political membership of the people to whom they sell the cars.” Al-Akhbar, February 20, 2014. 6 "Turkish pilots kidnapped in Lebanon." Al Jazeera. August 9, 2013. http://www.aljazeera.com/news/mi ddleeast/2013/08/201389624378510.html 7 Aziz, Jean. "International intrigue surrounds missing Czechs in Lebanon." Al Monitor. July 28, 2015. http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2015/07/lebanon-czech-kidnapping-washington.html#

94 95 Shia in northern Syria.8 Specifically, their patently criminal nature. That is the incident occurred after families particularly true of the kidnappings of the Lebanese detainees held in that occurred among Shia and Sunni A'azaz (northern Syria) announced clans in northern Bekaa when the plans to take Turkish hostages, as Lebanese-Syrian border was still porous they believed the Turkish government enough to facilitate smuggling (of all was responsible for the return of their types) between the two countries. loved ones. It also marked an uptick Consequently, the pervasive combat in the activities of the families that in this region has not only decreased had routinely demonstrated outside those types of abductions dramatically, various Turkish offices (Turkish Embassy, but it has also imposed a significant cultural office and airlines) and reduction in cross-border smuggling. blocked the Airport Road throughout To gain some perspective on this, the year, especially since the pilots Hayya Bina interviewed a Shia gas were abducted as their bus traveled station owner from Tarayya (North West along that very road.9 The pilots were Bekaa), who offered the following ultimately released to Lebanese account of these tit-for-tat events: authorities on October 19, 2013, and the Shia pilgrims held hostage in Aazaz When it comes to [the] carburant were released that same day after 17 business (i.e., petroleum, oil and months of detention.10 Qatar played a gas), things are quite clear. The very interesting role in the exchange, people of Orsal have a long and some reports asserted that its history [of] smuggling…carburants government paid as much as €100 from Syria, but it is not enough to million for the release of the nine Shia bring those goods into Lebanon; involved. they must be sold. In these times of extreme sectarian tension, By far, however, most of the it is not always easy for them, kidnappings that occurred during the Sunni that they are, to [wander reporting period report were sectarian about] on…their mini-tank trucks in nature (the most bewildering of which [searching for buyers]. On the one involved competing factions operating hand, they are Sunni and [that] in the border areas, which then is enough [of] a charge against subjected those abducted to religious them. On the other hand, they do trials). At the same time, while sectarian not enjoy the protection of [either] issues are typically highlighted in these of the two Shia parties, Amal crimes, they do not represent the only or Hezbollah. This is [generally] reason why they are committed. Often, the context [for many] of the kidnappings are characterized as being fights [that] occurred [without] inspired by sectarianism simply to cloak any political [considerations].

8 "Turkish pilots kidnapped in Lebanon." http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2013/08/20138962 4378510.html 9 "Gunmen kidnap Turkish pilots in Beirut." Reuters. The Daily Telegraph. 9 August 2013. http://www. telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/lebanon/10233509/Gunmen-kidnap-Turkish-pilots-in- Beirut.html 10 "Turkish pilots handed over to Lebanese authorities: source." The Daily Star. 19 October 2013. http:// dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2013/Oct-19/235120-kidnapped-turkish-pilots-handed-over-to- lebanon-authorities-source.ashx#axzz2o1HeR4CP

94 95 In addition to the distribution, However true it may be that another scenario is connected. the abductions [involving] Orsal When the guys [from] Orsal and its neighbors sometimes [cannot] find a way to sell their have a Mafia-like element of smuggled goods, they sometimes competition, we cannot deny [try] to prevent Shia from doing that things sometimes [spiral] their own smuggling business. out of control. [In other words,] This…creates tension and leads to that Mafia-like characteristic fights, which can sometimes turn [becomes] increasingly complex, deadly. as it [often] involves […] funding some [of the] Islamist groups. The description given above was While these guys show a high confirmed by the testimony of a Bekaa- level of realism and are ready based Shia notable often required to to comply with the rules of the intervene in inter-clan reconciliations. R. game, their involvement in such M., known for his anti-Amal and anti- criminal activities is not only money driven, but [it] is [also] Hezbollah political leanings, gave his ideologically driven. own particularly cynical explanation:

Of course, the reciprocal kidnappings Luckily, [it's] not always about Ali perpetrated by rival gunmen in the and Omar, but about gasoline, Bekaa Valley during early September fuel and other goods. This makes 2014 stoked regional sectarian it easier to intervene and find tensions that had already threatened solutions according to clan and to reach a boiling point following tribal rules, even when human the capture by Islamist militants of losses are involved. First, you let 23 Lebanese soldiers and policemen the blood cool down; then, you the month before. According to a intervene and negotiate—in cash security expert in the Bekaa valley, or in kind—the cost of the blood “Rogue kidnapping gangs have taken that was shed. advantage of the rising sectarian tensions and the prevailing chaos in While these testimonies certainly the Bekaa to carry out kidnap-for- include a generous amount of truth but ransom operations.”11 One example tend to downplay the issue, we cannot of such kidnappings is the strange ignore completely the ideological abduction/release that took place impact of Sunni-Shia tensions on September 13, 2014 near Orsal, expressed periodically via kidnappings, but it was unclear if it was related to particularly when that unrest occurs sectarian strife or allegations of the in northern Bekaa. A. F., a resident of abductee's (Ahmad Houjeiri) supposed Orsal Municipality who considers himself cooperation with Hezbollah.12 Houjeiri a secular Arab nationalist, agrees with was released a day after being the previous analysis but adds: abducted, and his freedom coincided

11 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Sep-09/270031-tit-for-tat-kidnappings-raise- tensions-in-lebanon.ashx 12 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Sep-13/270598-gunmen-kidnap-lebanese- citizen-in-border-town.ashx

96 97 with that of another abductee, is a generous benefactor of that Palestinian businessman Mohammad organization and does not hide his Khaled Ismail, who was kidnapped political ambitions). for unknown reasons just outside his residence in Baalbek.13 Beyond that incident, the Syrian crisis introduced yet another "brand" of Against the backdrop of heightened kidnapping, which involved smuggling sectarian tensions in Lebanon Syrian nationals over the border and the region, several of the into Lebanon. On November 13, kidnapping-for-ransom incidents the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) that occurred during the reporting freed Syrian national Raafat Youssef period turned out to have semi- from his would-be kidnapper, Syrian political orientations—or at least were national Abdul-Rahman Issa Hussein, perceived as having such drivers. The who abducted Youssef to compel most blatant of these incidents was his family to pay the smuggling fee.15 the abduction of Sunni Saadnayel Quite often, smugglers from Lebanese resident (pharmacist) Wissam Al- family gangs (particularly those in Khatib.14 Although his kidnapping Wadi Khaled) are convincing Syrian was intended to secure a ransom, refugees to pay a smuggling fee but the fact that it took place in a Shia then kidnap them to extort a ransom area immediately reignited sectarian from Syrian authorities.16 tensions between Sunni Saadnayel and its Shia neighborhood (the result In December 2014, sectarian-related of which included roadblocks and kidnappings occurred in Orsal and exchanges of violence). After friends Bazzalieh. Bazzalieh resident Hassan of Wissam Al-Khatib demonstrated Ezzeddin was abducted for a day for his release, higher-level political while attempting to deliver Qatari aid intervention was needed. He was to Syrian refugees. Another man from ultimately freed during the Adha the same village was also released holidays after 17 days of captivity. after a kidnapping ordeal that lasted Another interesting incident involved several hours.17 Michel Sakr, the son of a Christian, pro-Lebanese Forces (LF) businessman The practice became routine by based in Zahle. Similar to the case of October 2013 after three Syrian al-Khatib, Sakr's abduction for ransom nationals had been kidnapped in sparked violence and became a Lebanon. Following the abduction political issue (aside from being a of Lebanese Shia national Yasser Ali pro-LF businessman, Sakr's father Ismail (allegedly by Syrian military

13 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Sep-16/270846-arsal-resident-palestinian- man-released-from-kidnapping-in-bekaa.ashx 14 Diaa Hadid. "Syrian war spurs rash of kidnappings in Lebanon." AFP. Posted on Gazettenet.com. November 12, 2013. http://www.gazettenet.com/home/9303769-95/syrian-war-spurs-rash-of- kidnappings-in-lebanon 15 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Nov-13/277504-security-forces-foil- kidnapping-in-masnaa.ashx 16 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Jul-30/265447-kidnapped-refugees-handed- to-syrian-army.ashx 17 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Dec-14/280994-northeast-lebanon-gunmen- release-arsal-resident-after-kidnapping.ashx

96 97 operatives), residents of Sireen al-Tahta than the "standard" €5,000 ransom).21 (Bekaa) kidnapped three Syrians, an Of note, one LAF soldier was killed incident that followed the spate of during the raid conducted on the kidnappings perpetrated earlier in compound in which the Germans had the year.18 In that case, the Mokdad been held. family (renowned for its clan-like attitude and support of Hezbollah) Yet another form of kidnapping that kidnapped 16 people in retaliation occurs periodically in Lebanon is for the abduction of family member related to women and young girls. Mohammad Mokdad.19 That series of In northern and eastern Lebanon, kidnappings was also tied to numerous women are frequently abducted for abductions and death threats by the purpose of forced marriage or Shia Muslims in response to the June rape.22, 23, 24, 25, 26 In addition, shepherds 15 murder of four Shia Muslims by are sometimes arrested by Israeli Lebanese and Syrian Sunnis. forces in the border regions of south Lebanon. Notably, however, politically But illicit transactions are also cause correct Lebanese parlance refers for periodic abductions. In August to such arrests as "abductions."27 2013, Lebanese businessman Fathallah Similarly, a relatively "unique" type of al-Hayyali was kidnapped from the kidnapping involves the abduction Bekaa, allegedly because of his of children by a parent. This form of involvement with drug trafficking.20 kidnapping is interesting because In another strange event, two each occasion highlights the steep German nationals were abducted social cost the Lebanese must bear November 2, allegedly following by entrusting their personal lives to failed negotiations with drug dealers religious courts that take a number of in the Bekaa. The Germans were later different approaches to the subject of released after paying $3,000 (rather child custody.

18 "Three Syrians taken in tit-for-tat e. Lebanon kidnapping." The Daily Star. October 5, 2013. http:// dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2013/Oct-05/233686-three-syrians-taken-in-tit-for-tat-e-lebanon- kidnapping.ashx#axzz2o1HeR4CP 19 Rakan al-Fakih. "Weekend of abductions and killings rattles Bekaa Valley, north Lebanon." The Daily Star. August 5, 2013. http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2013/Aug-05/226295- weekend-of-abductions-and-killings-rattles-bekaa-valley-north-lebanon.ashx#axzz2b51J4pV5 20 "Businessman kidnapped in east Lebanon." The Daily Star. August 3, 2013. http://www.dailystar. com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2013/Aug-03/226155-businessman-kidnapped-in-east-lebanon. ashx#axzz2b51J4pV5 21 "Germans briefly kidnapped in e. Lebanon released." The Daily Star. November 2, 2013. http:// dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2013/Nov-02/236616-lebanese-soldiers-clash-with-gunmen-2- people-killed.ashx#axzz2o1HeR4CP 22 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Nov-24/278739-lebanese-man-arrested-for- kidnapping-raping-ethiopian-woman.ashx 23 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Nov-24/278754-family-claims-tripoli-woman- rescued-not-abducted.ashx, http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Nov-25/278824- in-laws-of-abducted-tripoli-woman-demand-her-return-deny-charges.ashx 24 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Dec-18/281502-abductors-to-free-east- lebanon-school-girl-after-hezbollah-intervention-teacher.ashx 25 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Dec-24/282163-girls-disappearance-sparks- kidnapping-in-north-lebanon.ashx 26 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2015/Jan-04/282989-kidnapper-releases-east- lebanon-schoolgirl-abducted-for-marriage.ashx 27 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Jul-31/265576-israel-releases-kidnapped- shepherd.ashx

98 99 In a December 2013 report published State authorities, very few of whom by Control Risks, an international consider that something wrong security consulting firm, Lebanon is taking place. On the contrary, was ranked sixth in the world for risk abduction, whether criminal or of kidnapping.28 Neither this ranking political in nature, seems to be nor the ongoing abductions seem Lebanon's legacy. As such, it is simply to effect the Lebanese public or "tolerated."

28 "Report ranks Lebanon sixth in kidnapping risk." The Daily Star. December 14, 2013. http://www. dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2013/Dec-14/241054-report-ranks-lebanon-sixth-in-kidnapping- risk.ashx#axzz2o1IP9Gp1

98 99 Blank Page Chronology of Selected Abductions

2013 January 9 6 » During raids being conducted near the » Dr. M. Sukkariyye was shot in the back as he northern Bekaa village of Dar al-Wasiaa, the tried to escape from three men who were trying LAF freed A. Abu Hassan (see 4 February to kidnap him near Shaath (North Bekaa). entry).

23 » A child was kidnapped by his mother in » Two children were kidnapped by four armed Mouallaqa (Bekaa) due to a family conflict. men as their grandfather was driving them to school in Aramoun (South of Beirut). It appeared 10 the kidnappers had been hired by the mother of » Businessman N. Youssef was freed (see 6 the children. February entry).

February 20 1 » Four men kidnapped 13-year-old M. » Four armed men kidnapped Lebanese citizen Awada from outside his home in the upscale F. Metri outside his home in Mansouriyyeh (North Beirut neighborhood of Ramlet el-Bayda. Mount Lebanon). 23 » N. Nassar was kidnapped on Terbol-Ferzol » N. Nassar remains captive (see 1 February (Bekaa) while he was traveling to work. entry), and his kidnappers continue sending messages threatening to kill him should the $2 3 million ransom not be paid on time. » A ransom of $70,000 was demanded for F. Metri. He was found later at the southern 25 entrance to Baalbek. » After payment of a $132,000 ransom, 13- year-old M. Awada is set free. 4 » A. Abou Hassan (of Palestinian descent) was 27 kidnapped on the Jalala-Chtora road (Bekaa) » The ISF announced that it had arrested by three armed men. three people between February 19 and 22 and charged them with kidnapping. The 6 kidnappers of N. Youssef were among those » While traveling to the Abou Aswad apprehended. neighborhood (South) from home, businessman N. Youssef was kidnapped when a car March intercepted his vehicle. The kidnappers later 4 demanded a ransom of $3 million. » A security spokesperson disclosed to » The Riyak-Terbol (Bekaa) road was blocked to as-Safir newspaper a list of 87 people protest recent kidnappings. suspected of various kidnappings.

PB 101 10 in Rashayya (South Bekaa). The kidnappers » In response to the supposed kidnapping threatened to murder the boy if his father of Islamist Sheikh Orfan Maarabouni in the failed to pay the debt he owes the Bekaa (last seen on March 3 as he was kidnappers. The boy was ultimately released. leaving for Syria), a group of his supporters blocked the main road to the Masnaa 3 border checkpoint between Lebanon and » Taxi driver J. al-Khawli was kidnapped Syria. Other roads were simultaneously in Dawra (east of Beirut), and a $50,000 blocked in North Lebanon. ransom was demanded for his release.

13 » S. Hamwi (see 1 April entry) was freed » M. Efram, the General Manager of an after payment of a large ransom. agricultural research center, was almost » Sunni/Shia tension and the wave of kidnapped near his home in Ksara (Bekaa). kidnappings in Bekaa north subside after As the would-be kidnappers broke the Hussien Jaafar contacts his parents by windshield of his car and tried to drag him phone. The phone call occurred in parallel through, Efram shot at his assailants and with a meeting between Future Movement forced them to flee. Secretary General Ahmad Hariri and a member of the Jaafar clan. 15 » S. Yazbek was arrested in Baalbek for » Thanks to mediation by Baalbek's kidnapping F. Mitry. Sunni Mufti, several Sunnis who had been abducted were freed by the Jaafar family. 18 » Another member of the group that 8 kidnapped F. Mitry was arrested. » Orsal officials and Jaafar family members met at an LAF intelligence office to discuss » Hussein Jaafar, a member of the North the ongoing series of kidnappings between Bekaa-based Shia Jaafar clan, was the parties. kidnapped outside Orsal. The event sparked reciprocal kidnappings between the Jaafar 10 clan and Sunni families in Orsal. » After a weeklong kidnapping, J. al-Khawli was freed after a $12,000 ransom was paid. 25 » Kidnappings continued between the 11 Jaafar clan and their Orsal neighbors. » In the ongoing kidnappings between the Orsal and the Jaafar clans, the Orsalis 27 abducted three of their Jaafari antagonists. » A. Bou Shahin was kidnapped in Baalbek, and the kidnappers sought a $1 million In response, the Jaafar clan kidnapped one ransom. Substantial political effort was used of its Orsali foes. to secure his freedom. 12 30 » Officials from North Bekaa continued to » According to media information, the work toward a “truce” in the kidnapping ransom for A. Bou Shahin (see 27 March "war." A delegation from Orsal arrived on entry) was reduced from $1 million to the Syrian side to pay the ransom for Hussien $50,000. Jaafar’s freedom.

13 April » The Orsal/Jaafar kidnappings stopped 1 when Hussien Jaafar was freed after » Eight Syrians were kidnapped at Wadi payment of a ransom. The 12 remaining Khaled (North). abductees were set free and turned over to the LAF. » Syrian national S. Hamwi, son of the head of the Syrian Red Crescent, was kidnapped 15 in Adonis (east of Beirut). » Hussein Jaber’s family claimed they were » J. Nasereddin, a minor, was kidnapped phoned by an unknown individual who told

102 103 them that Hussien had been kidnapped at 27 Deir Zahrani (South) and that a ransom was » I. Imad, who was kidnapped May 21 from demanded. Later, the LAF arrested Hussein Deir al-Ahmar-Shlifa (Bekaa north), was in a Beirut restaurant when it was discovered freed by members of the LAF's intelligence that he had faked his kidnapping to extort branch. He was found in neighboring Younin money from his father. (Bekaa north). » In Laboue (Bekaa north), an ambulance 16 that was transferring Syrian national A. Idriss » The LAF arrested the head of a from Syria to Lebanon was hijacked and the kidnapping gang, Lokman Mokdad, who patient kidnapped. along with others was responsible for the kidnapping of J. al-Khawli. » Mohamad Loulou was kidnapped from in front of his shop in Saadneyal (Bekaa). 17 » A Syrian refugee claimed that his 17- 28 year-old daughter had been kidnapped in » The kidnapping of Syrian citizen M. Abbasiyeh (South) by an unknown Syrian Radwan Addibas from outside his home in group. She was later found handcuffed and Ksara (Bekaa) was foiled. unconscious near an orchard in the same area. June 1 27 » The ISF forced the release of Mohammad » Eight Syrians who were kidnapped Samir Al-Hamwi, son of the head of the April 1 in Wadi Khaled were set free. They Syrian Red Crescent. explained the abduction as an attempt by the father of an individual imprisoned in 2 Syria to trade them for his son. » Three Lebanese and two Syrians were arrested in Aley for planning to kidnap a May Syrian citizen and trade him for a detainee 9 in al-Quseir. » A Jordanian citizen reported to the police station in Chtaura (Bekaa) that two 5 men and a girl kidnapped him as he was » Retired ISF member H. Bourji and Y. leaving Rafic Hariri Airport. They freed him Arayyis were abducted on the Baalbek- after stealing his passport. The investigation Beirut highway. A ransom of $70,000 was disclosed a financial dispute between the demanded. alleged victim and his kidnappers. 6 20 » Armed men mistakenly kidnapped » Ahmad Jaafar and his cousin, Mahdi George Lishaa from Ras Baalbek and took Jaafar were kidnapped in the al-Quseir him to Syria. The kidnappers thought he countryside (Syria). Notably, stories about was Kanj Ghannam, a farm owner, and the incident were quite different. While a ransom of $500,000 was sought from some sources claim the individuals lost their Ghannam’s family. way while heading to a Lebanese village inside Syrian territory, other sources assert 11 that they were lured into the kidnapping. » Khaled Fouad Hamou claimed at the Chtaura (Bekaa) police station that his 23 father, Syrian citizen Fouad Hamou had » Five female bartenders (one Brazilian been kidnapped by an unknown group. The and four Ukrainians) were kidnapped from a kidnappers demanded a $1 million ransom. nightclub in Zahle (Bekaa). » Retired ISF member H. Bourji and Y. Arayyis were released after a ransom of » B. Attallah, who was kidnapped from $50,000 was paid. Zahle (Bekaa) early in the day, was freed by LAF intelligence personnel. He was found in » A minibus owned by an Orsal citizen an abandoned house in Dar al-Wassiaa—a and filled with Syrian citizens disappeared stronghold of the Jaafar clan. in (Shia) Maqneh (Bekaa)—a stronghold of

102 103 the Mokdad clan. Media sources indicate July that members of the Mokdad clan were 2 responsible and that they had already » Mohammad Tofayli, who was kidnapped turned over the abductees to Hezbollah. from Nahle, was reported to be in Rankous (a Syrian village near the Lebanese border). 12 Some rumors hold that his kidnapping is » The driver of the minibus intercepted the linked to an illegal fuel oil smuggling business. day before in Maqneh was released. The fate of the eight Syrians kidnapped in retaliation is still unknown. 13 » Lebanese police foiled the kidnapping of 3 a Kuwaiti citizen in Bhamdoun (South Mount » After escaping two previous kidnapping Lebanon) by a three-member gang. One attempts, Kanj Ghannam escaped a third of two Syrian suspects was arrested but the when the kidnappers misidentified his car. other escaped. 5 14 » Mohammad Tofayli was released after his » In Ras Baalbek (Bekaa), the LAF foiled the relatives abducted eight herdsmen from the kidnapping of George and Kanj Ghanam kidnappers' family. Following negotiations, an by four individuals associated with armed exchange took place in the Syrian village of Syrian opposition groups. Jarajir.

15 15 » After a $35,000 ransom was paid, Fouad » Contact was lost with K. Fosseyan while he Hamou (see June 11 entry) was released at was in Orsal. the Marj crossway (Bekaa). 24 16 » An 11-year-old girl was kidnapped in Byblos » Three Bengali citizens kidnapped another (North of Beirut) for ransom. Bengali (a KSA Embassy employee) from Beirut and took him to Sarafand (south). 25 They telephoned the KSA Embassy and » An LAF intelligence patrol freed the 11- demanded a ransom. year-old girl who had been kidnapped from Byblos (see 24 July entry). During the chase, 17 the girl was shot in the back. Her mother and » An LAF team raided a house and freed two Syrians were arrested. the Bengali kidnap victim (see June 16 » K. al-Atrash (Sunni from Orsal) was entry). kidnapped on the Shia-dominated Bazaliyye- Laboue road. 19 » Security sources mentioned that two aid 26 workers en route to Orsal were kidnapped in » The LAF arrested two individuals in (Shia) Laboue (Bekaa). Brital (Bekaa). They were en route to the Syrian border via Orsal along with two Dominican 20 girls they kidnapped earlier from nightclubs. » Pro-Hezbollah MP al-Walid Sukariyyeh They intended to traffic the women. hands over to the Houjairy family one of its members who had been kidnapped » K. al-Atrash was released (see July 25 previously by the Jaafar clan. entry.

26 30 » Mohammad Tofayli was kidnapped » Nermin Jamal’s family reported in Abi near Zahle. In response, the Tofayli family Samra that she has been missing for three kidnapped eight Syrians in Nahle (Bekaa). days from her home in Bahsa (Tripoli).

27 August » M. Loulou was released after a month 1 long kidnapping. » Syrian B. Ammouri claimed that four armed

104 105 men kidnapped his father from a parking lot in kidnapped three Syrians from the outskirts Jdita (Bekaa). of Brital. The incident was in response to the abduction of three Ismail family members on » Contact was lost with Youssef Mounif August 11 by armed Syrians (Bekaa). Mokdad, a resident of Maqneh, after his minibus was found empty near Orsal. Reports 14 indicate that he is part of the reciprocal » A. Maarouf reported in Zahle that his kidnappings that involve the Mokdad and expatriate Brazilian brother Sh. Maarouf was residents of Orsal. missing.

3 16 » Three residents of Baalbek and one from » Under LAF supervision, abductees from Brital were kidnapped in Orsal. the Ismaeil family were exchanged between » In retaliation for the kidnapping of Brital and the Syrian village of Asal al-Wared. Youssef Mokdad, members of the Mokdad family kidnap Hussien Al-Houjairy 20 » F. Hiyali’s car was found empty and » Sh. Maarouf was released at the Serein burned along Riyaq Road. Hiyali was crossroads (Bekaa) after a $115,000 ransom kidnapped earlier in Ferzol (Bekaa). was paid.

5 22 » More kidnappings take place between » Syrian M. Khafili was kidnapped outside the Mokdad and Orsal families. his home in Housh Al-Harimeh (Bekaa). » An agreement was reached that September stipulates the release of 17 Syrian nationals 9 from Flita (a Syrian village near the » Syrian A. al-Azeb was kidnapped in Lebanese border) in exchange for Youssef Taanayel (Bekaa) Mokdad—after which 10 Orsal residents would be freed. 12 » Syrian citizen A. Hassoun reported that 6 his brother Ibrahim had been kidnapped » K. Fosseyan, who was held in Flita (Syria) in Zahle (Bekaa) by five armed men who after being kidnapped in Orsal (Lebanon), dragged him from his car. was released and returned to his parents in Zahle. 17 » Syrian J. Ammouri was released after » LAF intelligence arrested two Syrians being kidnapped in Jdita. and a Lebanese who were involved in kidnapping operations. 9 » The “Imam Rida visitors,” a previously 18 unknown group, claims responsibility for the » A Turkish man was thought to have kidnapping of a Turkish pilot and his co-pilot been kidnapped when his rental car was on the airport highway. The kidnapping of found in Maamelten (an area in east Beirut these two Turkish nationals is linked to the renowned for its nightlife). Investigation abduction in May 2012 in North Syria of a disclosed that the individual had left group of Lebanese Shia returning from Iraq Lebanon via Rafic Hariri Airport. after a religious pilgrimage. 24 11 » Attorney R. Dalloul was kidnapped in » After an exchange of abductees, Youssef Zahle (Bekaa) by armed men after he was Mokdad was released and turned over to spotted using an ATM. The kidnappers the Ras Baalbek LAF Intelligence station. demanded a $200,000 ransom. Concurrently, the Mokdad family released the 10 abductees they were holding. 26 » Attorney R. Dalloul was found in a house 13 in the Zahle industrial zone. Security forces » The (Shia) Brital-based Ismail family raided the location and released him.

104 105 29 kidnapped near the Nahr Bared refugee » Wissam Al-Khatib was kidnapped along camp (North). the Karak-Moalaqa highway (Bekaa) and held for a $500,000 ransom. 5 » Palestinian businessman Y. Loubani was 30 released. No information was available » After a minor was kidnapped for about whether a ransom was paid. marriage, the roads to Sheikh Ayyash, Telmeiyan and Bourj Al-Arab were cut 10 (Akkar). » R. Labbadi was kidnapped at Mina (Tripoli), and his father received a text October demanding a $200,000 ransom. He was soon 3 freed by the LAF intelligence. » An armed group from Syria kidnapped Yasser Ismaeil outside Brital (Bekaa). 17 » Three Syrians were kidnapped while riding 6 a bus along the Hermel-Qobeyyat road » Six Syrians were kidnapped from Brital in (controlled by the Jaafar clan). response to the earlier kidnapping of Yasser Ismail. 18 » Minor Nidal Idriss was kidnapped from 10 Ayoun es-Samak while riding in a car with his » W. Benham was kidnapped from dad. He was later freed by security agencies Mansouriyyeh (North Mount Lebanon). (North).

15 20 » Wafer Jebrail Benham was released » Three Syrians who were kidnapped earlier without ransom in Naher el mout (east on the Hermel-Qobeyyat were set free. Beirut). The circumstances of his abduction and release were not disclosed. December 16 23 » In Brital, the Ismail family released seven » Two Brital residents were arrested and abductees they were holding in response to charged with kidnapping Wissam Al-Khatib. Yasser Ali Ghannam’s kidnapping. November » LAF intelligence raided the residences of 4 two individuals in Brital. They were suspected » Palestinian businessman Y. Loubani was of involvement in kidnapping operations.

2014 January Hawa, a businessman's son, after he was lured to 9 a remote region by a girl. The perpetrators, one » In a particularly odd situation, a Cadillac of whom worked for the father, were arrested. crashed into Rafic Hariri International Airport, after which a passenger in the car beat a 28 woman and kidnapped her two children before » Armed elements kidnapped three Syrian fleeing the scene. citizens outside Ras Baalbek (Bekaa).

12 29 » Two Syrian refugees on a motorcycle » Julien Antoun, the son of businessman attempted to kidnap a 12-year-old Orsal girl. George Antoun, disappeared. His car was found near Oyoun as-Samak (North), after which his 14 mother received a call demanding a $3 million » LAF intelligence foiled the kidnapping of G. Al- ransom.

106 107 February April 3 6 » M. Abdelmajeed kidnapped K. al-Saleh, his » S. Abed Al-Hak was released after being wife’s niece, 16 days ago in Akkar. kidnapped in Tripoli. A ransom had been » Clashes broke out near Sharawneh demanded from her parents. between armed men and the LAF while soldiers were searching for Julien Antoun in 13 the Jaafar stronghold. » M. Samir Holayhil was released when the LAF raided a house in Orsal. 5 » K. Al-Saleh was released by the ISF from an May apartment in Tripoli. 4 » Kh. Nashar, kidnapped previously in 8 Haour Taala, was released in Baalbek after » Julien Antoun was found on a road in mediation by regional clans (Bekaa). Bekaa north after a 15-day kidnapping. » Iraqi contractor W. Jabbour was kidnapped from Dawhat Aramoun (south of Beirut). 15 » Security forces foiled the kidnapping of a 14 businessman’s son, who was to be ransomed » M. al-Houjairy was kidnapped while en for $1 million. The Syrian leader of the gang route in his vehicle from Orsal to Baalbek. was arrested. His parents received a ransom demand of $100,000. March 1 15 » D. Darweshi was arrested for kidnapping » Iraqi contractor W. Jabbour was released minor L. Atiyyeh in order to marry her. at Hawsh an-Nabi after a $50,000 ransom was paid. Surprisingly, family member Majed 6 Al-Nashi was kidnapped during the exchange » T. Kaady was kidnapped along the road and a ransom was demanded. between the Riyak Air Force Base and the Bekaa Military headquarters. He was released 19 four hours later after mediation by Hezbollah » In Brital, the LAF raided the homes and the Amal Movement. of people suspected of involvement in kidnapping operations. 7 » M. Sakr, the son of a pro-Lebanese Forces June businessman, was kidnapped while en route 6 to school in Zahle (Bekaa). The kidnapping » A Saudi-Egyptian woman reported in caused a wave of protests which assumed Shmustar that her Egyptian husband, M. political-sectarian dimensions. Haykal had been kidnapped when a car filled with four armed men intercepted their 8 vehicle on the Hosh Bay Road (Bekaa). » M. Sakr was released less than 24 hours after being kidnapped. 9 » The family of Egyptian M. Haykal received 20 a telephone demand for a $100,000 ransom. » While G. Tehmazian was in his car in Shilfa (Bekaa), he was intercepted by three 10 other cars and abducted. George’s family » An armed group attacked a stone crusher is the only Armenian family in Baalbek. His near the border village of Ras Baalbek and brother announced that they had received a kidnapped six Syrians and two Lebanese. One phone call demanding a $50,000 ransom or of the Lebanese was held for ransom while Tehmazian would be taken to Syria. the others were freed.

21 12 » George Tehmazian was released early in » Armed elements penetrated the Syrian the morning. refugee camps outside Orsal and kidnapped

106 107 one of the residents. It appears that the 22 reason behind the kidnapping is infighting » Architect M. Al-Kadi was released a month among rebel groups. after being kidnapped.

July 26 2 » In Mashghara (Bekaa), the LAF arrested » After being held for 20 days, M. Murad was a five-member gang (four Lebanese and a released after a $40,000 ransom—negotiated Syrian) that specialized in kidnappings. by Orsal figures—was paid. 30 » The LAF arrested an individual described as » A Kuwaiti businessman staying at a hotel “dangerous outlaw” in Brital after raiding his in Baalbek was kidnapped, after which the house. He headed a gang that specialized in kidnapping for ransom. criminals demanded a $1 million ransom.

15 September » Palestinian M. Jaber was kidnapped from 4 Khraybeh (East Bekaa) » The body of Lebanese Orsali Kayed Ghadadah was found. The individual was 17 kidnapped several days before by a group of » Architect M. al-Kadi was kidnapped from Islamists said to be affiliated to ISIL. Laboue and taken to the outskirts of Orsal. » The LAF arrested a suspect in the 5 kidnapping of Palestinian Mohammad Jaber. » In Rahba (Akkar), an LAF intelligence patrol arrested Ali Mazen Allaw and accused him of 18 being involved in kidnapping for ransom. » Architect M. al-Kadi’s family organized a conference to raise awareness about his 6 kidnapping. » Thirty-six days after he was taken prisoner during the Orsal battle, Abbas Medlej 23 became the second military member to be » After a ransom of $100,000 was paid, executed. Pictures of his decapitated body Palestinian M. Jaber was released a week were posted to social media sites. Members after his abduction. of the Medlej family and their affiliates blocked the town’s roads and kidnapped 27 Orsal residents A. Breidy and H. Fliti. » Syrian Abed al-Karim Al-Ali was freed during an LAF raid in Hillaniyeh. He was 8 kidnapped earlier from Hillaniyeh (Bekaa » Armed men kidnapped Saadnayel north) resident Ayman Sawwan. In response, Saadnayel residents (overwhelmingly Sunni) 28 gathered along the town’s road and began » Ziad Khadra reported that his father, inspecting the IDs of passing minibuses. Muhyedeen Khadra, had been kidnapped Ultimately, the drivers of four minibuses from from Orsal. A ransom was demanded on pain Baalbek were kidnapped. A fifth kidnapping of the father's death. was prevented by Lebanese security forces. The two sons of Ayman Sawwan told the August media that they would not free the 8 – 13 5 abductees they continue to hold nor would » Syrian M. Mudawwar reported in Bayader they remove their roadblocks until their father al-Adas (South Bekaa) that his uncle, Abed is released. al-Muniem Mudawwar had been kidnapped while en route from Rafic Hariri Airport. His 9 wife later received a phone call from the » Ayman Sawwan was released, and LAF kidnappers demanding a $50,000 ransom. intelligence drove him back to Saadnayel. Interestingly, some reports said that in order 7 to put pressure on the kidnappers, security » M. Al-Halawani was released after a agencies “arrested” the wives of those $200,000 ransom was paid. suspected of kidnapping Ayman Sawwan.

108 109 10 2 » Syrian citizen Jamil T. Wiesh reported in Tripoli » Syrian citizen A. al-Mostafa reported at the that he, his wife and his daughter were lured to Broumana police station that his son, Yassin Wadi Khaled (North) on August 31 with an offer had been kidnapped, and that a $3,000 of immigration visas for Australia. The family ransom had been demanded. was kidnapped upon their arrival and held until » Four armed men kidnapped (Christian) T. a $15,000 ransom was paid. Wehbe from outside the Orsal Municipality building. 11 » Orsal residents A. Breidy and H. Fiti were 12 released by the (Shia) al-Masri family in Hsour » LF supporters blocked all roads leading to Taala (see September 6 entry). Zahle to demonstrate solidarity with the family of T. Wehbe, who was kidnapped several days 15 ago in Orsal. » A group of people in a Nissan 4X4 kidnapped Palestinian businessman 14 Mohammad Khaled Ismail from outside his » T. Wehbe was released following payment home in Al-Ansar (Baalbek). of the $50,000 ransom.

16 18 » Palestinian businessman M. Ismail was » Khaled and Mostafa Houjairy were released after political pressure was applied. kidnapped after four vehicles surrounded Houjairy’s building in Taalabaya (Bekaa). 17 » An armed group entered the farm of 20 Mohammad Khalil Houjairy in Wadi Humayyed » The Houjairy family blocked the Taalabaya- (Orsal) and kidnapped his son, an army first Saadneyal road and erected tents to protest Adjutant Kamal. They also stole several cows. the kidnapping of Khaled and Mostafa The farm is two kilometers from an army center. Houjairy. Concurrently, Ahmad Khaled Houjairy was kidnapped on the Baalbek highway. 20 » The kidnapping of (Sunni) Orsal resident 25 Abdallah Breidy in Awzai (Dahiyeh) increased » T. Nehmeh, a Christian from North Lebanon local tensions. He was freed a few hours after working at the officer's club in Jounyieh, was his kidnapping. kidnapped in Bab Tabbeneh. The kidnappers demanded that measures being taken by the 23 LAF against some Tripoli neighborhoods be » Syrian citizen A. Saleh was kidnapped from lifted in exchange for his freedom. outside the Dar al-Amal Hospital in Baalbek. The kidnappers demanded a ransom of 26 $270,000. » Several armed individuals tried to kidnap LAF Adjutant Fayez al-Ammoury while he 29 was on leave at his home in Bab Tabbeneh. » Qatari mediation with Syrian rebels outside He escaped the attempt thanks to the Orsal succeeded in freeing First Adjutant Kamal intervention of some of his colleagues. Houjairy. November October 13 1 » LAF intelligence arrested a group of » A group of armed men attacked the farm kidnappers during an exchange (kidnapped belonging to Kanj Ghannam at Wadi Al- vs. ransom) in Deir Zannoun (Bekaa). Kheshen (outside Ras Baalbek). A Syrian janitor, Hassan Tlouj was kidnapped, and some of the 18 vehicles were stolen. » Armed individuals operating along the » Masked men tried to kidnap an LAF soldier Lebanese-Syrian border area abducted an in Beddawi, but the kidnappers fled to the LAF first adjutant, who was en route to his post Beddawi camp when an LAF patrol passed in Wadi Humayyed (outside Orsal). He was nearby. released two hours later.

108 109 23 11 » The ISF commander in Tripoli announced » Security services arrest M. Dandach, a the release of O. and I. Abbous, who had rather famous kidnapper (for ransom) in the been kidnapped in Tripoli for “family reasons.” Bekaa region.

25 12 » An armed group kidnapped retired first adjutant M. Houjairy from the shop he owns in » Syrian Wafaa al-A’lky reported in Bayader Ras al-Sarej (Orsal). They took Houjairy and a al-Adas (South Bekaa) that her husband, Syrian toward the outskirts of town. Syrian Ahmad Namany had been kidnapped by an armed group. 26 » Retired first adjutant Mohammad Ahmad 22 Houjairy was released. » Fatima M., a minor from Fnaydik (Akkar), left school on Monday 15 but did not return December home. The family investigated and responded 6 » Mohammad and Bassam Houjairy, as well by kidnapping Mashour D. from Shekka, as Mohammad al-Atrach—all of whom had where they believed their daughter was been kidnapped by armed groups operating hiding. After family mediation and assistance along the Bazeliyyeh-Laboue road—were by security forces, Mashour was released and freed. the girl returned home….

110 PB The Contentious Political Football of Lebanese Real Estate Who Owns What...and Where?

Vehement debates over land and squelched when they lost political its transfer between Lebanese and traction, the only discussion on the non-Lebanese—and between subject that has persisted centers Lebanese from different sects—are on sales of “Christian lands.” Aside certainly nothing new. Having from being easy to convince been at the heart of the Lebanese Christian politicians eager to please experience since 2007 (the year their constituents that the matter Hezbollah found itself swimming is disconcerting, a major factor in Iranian-donated cash following in that debate became evident its war with Israel), purchases of when the topic evolved into a land by Hezbollah stopped being cause advocated by the Maronite the focal point of those discussions Christian church. The topic became during the period covered in this so divisive that by the end of 2010, report.1 That outcome may be MP Boutros Harb (Lebanon's Minister explained variously. For instance, of Labor at the time) suggested Druze leader Walid Jumblatt, a bill that would freeze inter- who championed a campaign to confessional real estate transactions denounce Hezbollah's efforts to for 15 years, as he believed it would establish settlements—touted as preserve “Lebanon’s cohabitation residential compounds—intended and diversity.” to expand its physical presence, establish some strategic points and Today, however—owing to the connect the dots between its Beirut, prevailing level of political tension southern and Bekaa strongholds.2 In and the fact that Lebanon's Lebanon, however, the contentious Christian community has largely matter of real estate involves been marginalized politically—when more than tensions between the Muslim-Muslim real estate squabbles Shia-Sunni-Druze communities. do surface, they involve Shia Yet because these "intra-Muslim" and Sunni (Sunni Lebanese have debates over real estate were accused their Shia counterparts of

1 Farrell, Shane. "Hezbollah's controversial land acquisition." Now. January 4, 2012. https://now.mmedia. me/lb/en/reportsfeatures/hezbollahs_controversial_land_acquisition 2 Even the Sunday Telegraph felt compelled to report on the issue: “Hizbollah buys frontier land to attack Israel.” August 12, 2007. http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/1560119/Hizbollah-buys- frontier-land-to-attack-Israel.html

PB 111 "appropriating" Lebanon’s capital, mounting Christian frustration.5 As traditionally a Sunni/Greek Orthodox part of that same campaign, political settlement) or Druze and Shia (such activist and journalist Pierre Atallah as Walid Jumblatt accusing Hezbollah published “The Room of Freedom – The of establishing settlements in the Story behind the Subjugation of the Chouf area of Mount Lebanon). Thus, Lands of the Christians in Lebanon,” Lebanon's real estate issue extends a book which apparently serves as beyond inter-sectarian exchanges to the movement's manifesto. Since encompass a social dimension as well.3 then, not only has Harakat al-Ard In parallel with the heated debate kept the real estate issue alive, but over the national wage scale, that it has also used successive media characteristic propelled the subject of releases to denounce what it considers real estate to unprecedented levels of questionable transactions, including interest during the period covered by those undertaken by some churches. this report. The most visible, yet certainly not The most intriguing and illustrative the only aspect of this issue relates development in Lebanese real estate to public condemnation by various became evident during a press Christian groups of the transfer of conference coordinated by Harakat “Christian properties” to "other" al-Ard (the Lands Movement) at the Lebanese and non-Lebanese— Catholic Media Center on July 24, mainly (Sunni) people from the 2013. Even today, the group's stated Gulf.6 One report stated that as of objective remains "[confronting] April 2012, 110 million square meters the sale of Christian lands to non- (m2) of Christian land had been Christians," as the organization holds sold to non-Christians, a condition that such transactions are “causing that progressed to something of a a demographic shift [in the country] “cold war” between those involved. and [deepening]…confessional Christians often took the offense segregation.”4 Interestingly, the against other Christians willing to initiative is named after a 1976 sell their property. In one instance, Palestinian action that protested the the walls in the historically Christian confiscation of their lands by Israeli quarter of Ain al-Rummaneh (and authorities. This “Palestinian reference” other quarters at risk of real estate can be considered indicative of the "sprawl" from neighboring areas)

3 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Feb-15/247440-christian-land-issue-raises- decades-old-anxieties.ashx 4 Pierre Atallah, an-Nahar, 23 July 2014. 5 While the Palestinian al-Ard Movement (The Land Movement) emerged under completely different circumstances, the linguistic kinship between the Lebanese and the Palestinian reference to the “land” (as a last resort) is particularly interesting vis-à-vis Christian propaganda publicized at the beginning of the civil war which characterized the Palestinians as seeking to “steal” Lebanese land by settling on it. Today, it appears that Lebanese Christians are sharing the same land-oriented ideology as the Palestinians. http://www.yourmiddleeast.com/features/alard-the-seed-of-the-palestinian- struggle_11306 and https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Al-Ard 6 The issue assumed an “existential” dimension when it was discovered in June 2012 that Saudi Prince Muqrin bin abd al-Aziz had acquired 3 million m2 in the Kesrwan region—the heart of “Morounistan”— known as “The hill of the Cross!” Several of the prince's Lebanese friends convinced him to sell it back to a Lebanese Christian. See: https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/archive/saudi_prince_to_sell_dlebta_ land_to_a_lebanese

112 113 were spray-painted with crosses and it enables the Maronites to remain the slogan “To keep our church bells politically correct and appropriately ringing, do not sell your land.” respectful of the political "kings" of the community without being part of their Yet the tendency to sell land is not "royal courts." confined to individuals. Indeed, some Christian religious orders were Beyond changes in land ownership “tempted” to put up for sale parcels through regular sales, “Christian of land in areas where their parishes lands” in Lebanon suffered yet have become insignificant or simply another challenge as land owners no longer exist.7 In August 2013, the (typically Lebanese expats or their Lands Movement visited Patriarch Rai relatives) often fail to pay sufficient to give him a memo that “detailed “attention” to their Lebanese assets. [the sale of] 6.55 million square meters According to an-Nahar, hundreds of of land.” In response, “Maronite parcels of land changed ownership Patriarch Rai stressed the need to through traditional channels by using restrict the [sale] of lands belonging to counterfeit powers of attorney. The Christians.”8 Since then, the Maronite an-Nahar article focused on a case church has continued to take that involving Lebanese-Australian Assaad position. Interestingly, however, the Touma, who purchased a piece of land issue incited squabbles among land on the eve of the civil war but left the various Christian denominations. Lebanon once the violence started. In October 2014, the Maronite League He returned in 2014 intending to sell (essentially a secular Maronite lobby) his parcel but discovered that he was organized the “My Land, My Identity” no longer its owner. To recover his conference.9 Lands Movement head land, Touma had to commence legal Talal Douweihy, also a member of the proceedings!10 League, boycotted the conference despite mediation attempts by Real estate the Maronite Patriarchate (under as a political messenger whose patronage the conference While real estate is a source of conflict was held) after he accused the among various Lebanese sects, it may league's leadership of appropriating also serve as means of exchanging and marginalizing the efforts of the political messages. For instance, Lands Movement. This intra-Maronite several days after Patriarch Bechara kerfuffle says a great deal about Rahii returned from a controversial the importance of land issues within visit to the Holy Lands, a real estate Lebanese Maronite politics. In short, "incident" occurred.11 The issue

7 This frequently updated compilation addresses various cases of “land dismissal” from a Christian perspective: http://www.10452lccc.com/reports/real%20estatereports.htm 8 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2013/Aug-30/229266-patriarch-warns-against- selling-christian-lands.ashx 9 http://www.memoryatwork.org/public/uploads/files/rei-ap-annahar-20140708-6.pdf 10 How Assaad Touma's land was sold while he was in Australia! A counterfeiting mafia stealing land from Lebanese expats.” an-Nahar. June 11, 2014. 11 “Lebanon in uproar over Maronite patriarch's planned visit to Jerusalem.” Jerusalem Post. October 5, 2014. http://www.jpost.com/Diplomacy-and-Politics/Lebanon-in-uproar-over-Maronite-patriarchs- planned-visit-to-Jerusalem-351837

112 113 involved resuming construction on is waning rapidly. Accordingly, the a house situated on land that was best outcome would be a slowdown the focal point of a dispute between in this trend. the Maronite Church and Hezbollah- backed Shia residents of Lasa, a Real estate and public interest village located in the heart of Mount Beyond the intra- and inter- Lebanon's Christian land. Lebanese sectarian factors noted above, and political pundits soon concluded following resurgence of the debate that the incident had more to do over public wage scale hikes and with the issuance of a practical how they could be funded, most reprobation to the patriarch than with Lebanese became familiar with the construction per se. The accuracy the issue referred to in the local of that analysis is a moot point since patois as "seaside properties." The it illustrates how land can be “toyed topic centers on the exploitation of with” in Lebanon's tense sectarian public lands that run along coastal environment. In typical Lebanese or riverfront areas. These areas fashion, the incident was contained, are prime targets for squatting but not before its message had been by influential "private" individuals received successfully. An antithetical (who enjoy political "protection") example involved Hezbollah and or private companies (who also its Christian ally, the Free Patriotic benefit from similar safeguards) Movement led by General Michel who manage beach resorts—which Aoun. When a substantial tract of are sometimes conscripted for land (80,000 m2) in Hadath owned use by State institutions for "vital" by a group of Shia businessmen was functions such as impromptu army "recovered" by the Maronite League, barracks or municipality "annexes." the sellers easily made a profit of $13 It is indeed no secret that most of million; however, the incident again the residences and businesses that demonstrates the underlying political have been built along Lebanon's dimensions of the issue.12 Notably, coastline were constructed illegally. without Hezbollah's intervention, More to the point, the practice of that recovery would have been developing properties on State- impossible. Of course, the details of owned land is pervasive, as the the matter become clearer when "seaside properties" issue represents all the facts are examined. Located one of the most flagrant forms of east of Dahiyeh, Hadath is considered corruption in Lebanon. According to a political stronghold of General some experts, the income generated Michel Aoun, and returning that illegally by these lands amounts to land to the “Christians” helped Aoun bolster his credentials as a defender a paltry $10 million annually (not of Lebanese Christian interests. But including the immense fines the State while some parcels of land may could levy). In contrast, appropriate still be recovered, the reality is that and legal exploitation of these same Christian presence and influence in areas has the potential to generate Lebanon and elsewhere in the region annual revenues that approach $800

12 https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/archive/536598-maronites-redeem-land-from-shiites-in-hadath

114 115 million! For a State with a public debt problems have not yet prompted approaching US$75 billion, such an disputes on a grand scale. But simply influx of homegrown funding would because this issue has not assumed be nothing short of miraculous…. 13 greater dimensions at the sectarian/ national level, the matter is far from While small real estate issues settled. On the contrary, real estate continue to provoke altercations issues in Lebanon are a remarkably (sometimes bloody, particularly in accurate indicator of the things that rural areas), complex real estate might happen in the country.

13 In November 2012, the minister of public works held a press conference to publicize a report that identified individuals squatting on and exploiting those properties. On December 5, 6 and 7,al-Akhbar published the full report including detailed tables and maps.

114 115 Blank Page Nominal Success in Abating Violence against Women

Although domestic violence has long Karam al-Bazzi allegedly beat Roula since been a problematic issue in and her five daughters frequently. Lebanese society, until recently, even According to al-Monitor, Roula was discussions about the matter were the 24th woman to have been killed generally considered taboo. Within in that manner in Lebanon during the last several years, however— the past three years. Accordingly, thanks to the advocacy efforts of her death prompted a series of several (primarily women-oriented) protests and calls for change. Of NGOs—public debate that centers particular importance, Roula became on domestic violence has gained emblematic of beaten women in substantial acceptance. An interesting Lebanon thanks to efforts by her own aspect of the public attention being family. focused on the issue (as expressed in the media) is the position of the family The point can also be made that and the micro-social context within the years-long awareness raising which a given incident occurs. While and advocacy work undertaken by many such incidents garner very little several NGOs and other civil society mainstream media coverage because actors culminated with the case of they are typically covered up by the Roula Yaccoub. Although a draft law family (or by micro-social pressure), that aimed to "protect women from others are indeed publicized. domestic violence" was submitted to the parliament in April 2010, it was not One of the first incidents to attract until July 22, 2014 that it won approval widespread media attention was the by joint parliamentary committees alleged "honor crime" murder of a under the title “Bill for the Protection of girl by her brother in south Lebanon. Women and Family Members against Actually, when the man learned that Domestic Violence.” Obviously, the his sister was seven months pregnant decision to include "family members" with his child, he stabbed and stoned helped make the bill more palatable her to death and then discarded her to those who still resisted such body in the Wazzani River. Controversy legislation. over domestic violence was sparked again following the July 8, 2013 When the legislation was finally voted murder of Roula Yaccoub by her into law on April 1, 2014, it became husband in Halba, north Lebanon. a landmark event in Lebanese legal

PB 117 circles. Nevertheless, local organizations the Sunnis to pay a political price. such as “Kafa ("Enough") Violence In contrast, the Shia establishment & Exploitation” and the “National provides political representation to Coalition for Legislating the Protection both mainstream and “right-wing” of Women from Family Violence” Shia—under the watchful eyes of expressed disappointment that the bill Hezbollah and the Amal Movement.1 was amended. It is also interesting to note that the Upon its passage, the bill defined parliamentary session during which marital rape as “not explicitly the law was passed is among the criminalized as an assault by itself; very few legislative sessions held by rather it is the harm that accompanies the Lebanese parliament in recent it that is penalized.” The likely reason years. Approval of the law required for that change was the vehement representation by a number of opposition to the law expressed parliamentary blocs, especially the by many of the country's religious Muslim MPs, which gave them an leaders—especially those within opportunity to demonstrate their Muslim circles. As former grand Sunni openness and liberality in the face of Mufti Sheikh Mohammad Rashid mounting Islamist trends in Lebanon Qabbani stated as recently as 2011 and the region. In that sense, casting when the initial drafts of the law were a vote in favor of the law was being discussed, “Muslims in Lebanon tantamount to casting a political vote refuse a draft law that violates “against” rather than “for” the issue. Sharia derived from the Quran and Hadith, which protect and safeguard While the murder of Roula Yaccoub women and families in our society.” had a somewhat "positive" outcome Interestingly, while no “official” Shia because it motivated Lebanese stand was publicized by the High society and lawmakers to take action Shia Council (equivalent to the Sunni on the subject of violence against Fatwa), its position was certainly no women, other incidents reminded more liberal. Aside from a few Shia citizens that simply protecting clerics who clearly expressed support women from physical violence was for a law that would criminalize not enough. In effect, other types violence against women, the Shia of violence against women may establishment essentially "hid" behind be advocated or even condoned the Sunni stance on the matter. by legislative rulings regarding It should be understood that the marriage (particularly Muslim issue goes far beyond “violence marriages). According to UNRWA against women,” as the official Sunni gender protection coordinator establishment is under far more Helene Skaardal, “Gender-based pressure from its “right wing” than violence has become a new hidden is its Shia counterpart. Indeed, any dimension of the Syrian conflict” due significant concessions regarding to the anxieties and increased levels this gender related issue would force of stress from which the refugees are

1 For a general overview of the Muslim positions, see Farah Jahmy's "Representatives of the Muslim communities in Lebanon: For the violence against women” on the Janoubia.com website, July 29, 2011.

118 119 suffering. In January 2014, the United urged Lebanese who witness domestic Nations disclosed that it had helped violence to contact the authorities 38,000 people deal with sexual assault rather than simply wish the victim well. and gender-based violence in Syria While posters along roadsides have during 2013.2 In the ensuing period, the become common in recent years, the (forced) acceptance by Lebanese ABAAD initiative marked the first time society of the need to discuss issues an anti-abuse campaign had been typically considered off limits has televised. expanded beyond women. Today, the topic of child abuse is also being The mere presence of the law mentioned…. mentioned above is a successful example of a "foreign-funded" In many ways, 2013 and 2014 seemed advocacy campaign, and broad like "banner years for women" in advertising campaigns certainly helped Lebanon, but in reality, more incidents the issue gain greater importance of domestic violence occurred during among the Lebanese. At the same that time. On the positive side, such time, however, the law probably incidents were being reported more exists today because the issue is often by women and other witnesses, not exclusively political in nature. and more is being heard about Nevertheless, the negative side effect violence against women since the of the parliament having passed topic is no longer taboo. In fact, topical this law—after it had been watered television advertising campaigns were down—is that it will be exceedingly launched during the period covered difficult to sustain related advocacy by this report. An ad sponsored by efforts and/or amend the law over time one of the advocacy organizations unless more violence is committed!

2 https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/archive/536598-maronites-redeem-land-from-shiites-in-hadath

118 119 Blank Page Examining Ain al-Helwe and Other Camps Palestinian “Capitals of Exile” in Lebanon

According to the United Nations refugee camps, particularly at Ain al- Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), Helwe, a camp adjacent to Saida. there are currently around 450,000 Palestinian refugees registered With a population of around in Lebanon.1 UNWRA estimates 70,000, Ain al-Helwe is the largest of that about half the Palestinian Lebanon’s Palestinian camps and population lives in one of Lebanon’s is considered by some to be “the 12 recognized Palestinian refugee capital of Palestinian exile.”3 The camps, “all of which suffer from moniker refers not only to Ain al- serious problems, including poverty, Helwe’s size, but also to its unique overcrowding, unemployment, status among the camps in Lebanon. poor housing conditions and lack Following attacks in May 1985 on of infrastructure.” The organization Beirut's main Palestinian camps also reports that within its five (Bourj al-Barajneh and Shatila) areas of operation (Gaza Strip, by the Amal Movement and the West Bank, Syria, Jordan and Sixth Brigade of the then-fractured Lebanon), Lebanon has the Lebanese Army, mainstream “highest percentage of Palestinian Palestinian political and military refugees living in abject poverty,” power shifted to Ain al-Helwe. The and the recent influx of some camp came under severe pressure 50,000 Palestinian refugees from during the ensuing 15-year period Syria has exacerbated an already of Syrian “tutelage” in Lebanon but delicate humanitarian situation.2 has remained uniquely autonomous Accompanying this poverty is a long from external authority. Faced with history of violence, and the years the prospect of Hamas superseding 2013 and 2014 were no exception. Fatah as the principal Palestinian During that time, a number of violent power, external actors ultimately incidents occurred in and around the ensured that Fatah would retain that

1 “Registered” does not mean “resident.” The exact number of Palestinian refugees residing in Lebanon is subject to various estimates, ranging from 275,000 to 350,000 (Haya Binna interviews). 2 For the 50,000 refugees from Syria, see: http://www.unrwa.org/prs-lebanon. For all other quotations and figures, see: http://www.unrwa.org/where-we-work/lebanon 3 Haya Binna interviews, see also http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2013/03/ain-al- Helwe-looming-battle.html#. For Ain al-Helwe’s population, see: http://www.unrwa.org/ userfiles/2011100224730.pdf, although some estimates of its size are as high as 100,000 (see: http:// time.com/3829387/ain-al-Helwe-lebanon-isis/)

PB 121 authority—and independence. Over their respective militias have no time, the autonomy of Ain al-Helwe has shortage of willing members given benefitted several parties, especially the desperately high levels of Fatah, since it provides the group unemployment and relatively poor job secure assets in Lebanon and gives its prospects across the camps, even for backers the Palestinian faction they the highly qualified—potent conditions preferred. But the camp's exclusion which stem largely from Lebanese from Lebanese State control has also legislation that restricts Palestinians made Ain al-Helwe attractive to a from employment in numerous job variety of outsiders, including Islamist sectors.6 Thus, the formation and groups. For instance, a prominent Salafi development of factions and their leader took refuge there as long ago militias is encouraged by the camps' as the late 1980s, and since the early separation from the Lebanese State, 2000s, former Islamist sources have which arises not only from a Palestinian referred to it as the “heart of jihadist desire for effective self-governance, movements in the Levant.”4 Given the but also from the Lebanese creation of historical centrality of Ain al-Helwe, what one source terms a “ghettoized it will be the primary focus of this reality” for camp residents, in view of chapter (although other camps will be the pervasive and comprehensive mentioned periodically). From a more restrictions placed upon them.7 contemporary perspective, the camp’s volatile environment, aggravated As mentioned, Ain al-Helwe's "resident further by the radical Salafi-Islamist factions" now include several radical elements that have sought shelter or groups. This phenomenon has originate within its boundaries, has recently prompted concern on two made Ain al-Helwe the epicenter of the fronts: the increased aggressiveness most recent wave of camp violence. being exhibited by these groups towards their camp rivals, and the Ain al-Helwe and its Factions pronounced impact of the Syrian In the absence of strong, centralized crisis on the activities of such groups. governance, politics in the Palestinian This second issue involves not only the camps in Lebanon are affected by responses (that continue to be) made a number of competing influences to Hezbollah’s involvement in Syria and organizations, some of which by radical elements, but also Ain al- are camp specific. However, the Helwe’s attractiveness as a destination most universal and significant of for foreign Islamists, a particularly these influences is the Popular relevant issue given the surge of Islamist Committees, which are composed movements and activity that has of the most prominent local factions swept the region since the war in Syria in each camp.5 These groups and erupted. The camp's appeal to such

4 For the Salafi leader of the 1980s, see: http://www.mei.edu/content/impact-syria-conflict-salafis-and- jihadis-lebanon. For the latter quote, see http://www.mcclatchydc.com/2013/12/19/212190/concern- grows-in-lebanon-over.html 5 See pp.8-11, http://burawoy.berkeley.edu/Public%20Sociology,%20Live/Hanafi/Hanafi.Governing%20 Refugee%20Camps.pdf 6 See pp.21-22, http://www.ilo.org/wcmsp5/groups/public/---arabstates/---ro-beirut/documents/ publication/wcms_236502.pdf 7 http://www.mei.edu/content/impact-syria-conflict-salafis-and-jihadis-lebanon

122 123 elements has therefore stoked fear the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) that Lebanon will become increasingly in 2014 and died while in captivity, affected by Syrian "spillover." ostensibly because of a pre-existing health condition.11 Another renowned With regard to the factions present in radical group, Al-Shabab al-Muslim, Ain al-Helwe, Fatah has traditionally refers to an alliance among the more been the largest faction in the camp, radical Islamist elements listed above, although Hamas and several other particularly Fatah al-Islam.12 Islamist factions now threaten its status. These factions display varying degrees Rumors also persist about the presence of “moderation”; for example, the less of Jabhat an-Nusra in the camp. Of radical among them include al-Haraka particular note is a project made public al-Islamiya, Ansar Allah and al-Jihad in 2013, which intended to establish a al-Islami (the latter group headed by Lebanese branch of the group with Ain the “spiritual leader” of Islamists within al-Helwe as its base, but that outcome the camp, Sheikh Jamal Khattab).8 does not appear to have been The more extreme factions are led by achieved.13 More recently, reports Osbat al-Ansar, which is the largest and and rumors indicate that ISIL (Daesh) most powerful of the Islamist factions has tried to establish a foothold in Ain and has a history of violence against al-Helwe or another camp.14 Although various Lebanese and Western interests such rumors cannot be verified without (although in recent years this appears further investigation, they are indicative to have subsided).9 Others include Jund of the prevailing concern over foreign esh-Sham (which broke away from extremists, a sentiment shared by a Osbat al-Ansar in 2002), Fatah al-Islam security report leaked in February and a branch of the more international 2014, which warned of an “influx” of Abdullah Azzam Brigades.10 This latter extremists (including Syrians, Chechens, group was led by the late Majed al- Egyptians and Tunisians) into the camp Majed, reportedly a camp resident to join the Abdullah Azzam Brigades or until 2012, who was captured by Jund esh-Sham.15

8 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/May-13/256236-ain-al-Helwe-descends-into- further-violence.ashx#axzz3A9n1RwN8 9 For Osbat al-Ansar’s power, see http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2013/03/ain-al-Helwe- looming-battle.html#. For a list of its activities, see http://www.refworld.org/docid/5362299414.html. For its latest tendencies, see: http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/tr/originals/2013/09/lebanon-ain- Helwe-takfiri-groups-influence.html# 10 For Jund esh-Sham, see: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/6719635.stm. For Fatah al-Islam see: http://www.thenational.ae/world/lebanon-interrogating-head-of-al-qaeda-linked-group-responsible- for-iran-embassy-bombing. For Abdullah Azzam Brigades see: http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/ originals/2013/03/ain-al-Helwe-looming-battle.html# 11 For al-Majed’s death, see http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-25603499. For his reported residence in Ain al-Helwe, see: http://www.thenational.ae/world/lebanon-interrogating-head-of-al- qaeda-linked-group-responsible-for-iran-embassy-bombing 12 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Apr-28/254596-tension-between-rival- islamists-puts-ain-al-Helwe-on-edge.ashx#axzz3A9n1RwN8, al-Shabab al-Muslim referred to in this source by its English translation, “The Muslim Youth.” 13 http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2013/03/ain-al-Helwe-looming-battle.html 14 http://www.middleeasteye.net/news/leaked-security-documents-show-plots-attack-lebenon- 233642723 15 https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/blogs/politics/11037-impact-of-syrian-unrest-on-ain-al-Helwe- camp

122 123 Two more observations of some transient, as “manpower shifts” importance should be made between such groups occur quickly, regarding the factions in Ain al-Helwe easily and frequently. These changes (and in Lebanon’s camps in general). in allegiance are characteristic of the The first is that many, if not all of these Islamist milieu and contribute to its groups function as clients of local or exceptionally fluid nature. In fact, even regional patrons. Fatah and Hamas, some of the more established groups of course, are connected to their listed could easily be using a nom de parent organizations in Palestine, while guerre or have been infiltrated and/ many of the more radical elements or “hijacked” by a wealthier or better- are, or at least aspire to be linked connected faction. to wider Islamist movements (such as Jabhat al-Nasra).16 Meanwhile, Tension and Violence Hezbollah operates a well-known Within Ain Al-Helwe proxy, the Resistance Brigades, which As a preliminary remark to this is involved in the camp, and Syria's chapter, it should be noted that the al-Assad regime has well-documented more “random” acts of violence current and historical ties to several that occur within the camp are Palestinian factions. Patronage is usually unimportant. Fights over also provided to some factions by largely insignificant matters are various Lebanese security services. typical and frequently devolve into The importance of those links to the armed clashes, but that kind of security conditions in Ain al-Helwe are violence can be attributed to the not only acknowledged by Palestinian ghetto-like social makeup of the sources, but they also illustrate that camp. Thus, until those conditions despite official Lebanese policy that improve, these frequent altercations prevents State authorities from having will likely continue.18 Accordingly, a physical presence in the camps, that this text focuses primarily on the constraint does not preclude them politically driven violence the from exerting influence.17 An important camp experienced in 2013 – 2014. consequence of this widespread use For a timeline of the incidents that of proxies is that when considering the occurred, some of which are referred level of “moderation” of a particular to in this analysis, please consult the faction, it should noted that this is accompanying chronology. determined as much by the decisions and policies of their patrons as it is by As evidenced by the chronology any intrinsic ideological viewpoint or appended to this chapter, many other factor. of the clashes during the period covered occurred between Fatah The second observation is that and the various Islamist factions. although this document includes a The potential ramifications of that selective list of factions (above), that conflict are significant, largely due information should be considered to the possibility of an escalation

16 http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2013/03/ain-al-hilweh-looming-battle.html 17 Haya Binna interviews. For more on Hezbollah and LAF proxies within the camps, see the “Radical Factions and Hezbollah” section of this chapter. 18 Ibid.

124 125 in the violence and Fatah suffering since June 2013.21 Fatah is reported a comprehensive defeat—in which to have been under such severe case the influence of extremist groups pressure during these clashes that in the camp would likely increase Hamas felt it necessary to reinforce tremendously. Such a scenario could its traditional enemy with around 60 have profound effects on the camp— of its own fighters in a bid to prevent such as by enhancing its reputation significant extremist gains.22 This as an incubator for fundamentalism— example demonstrates the ability of which would likely precipitate forceful the Islamist factions to pose a serious intervention by an external party. military challenge to Fatah’s position, a contest that if successful could alter In fact, two incidents in recent years the camp’s environment considerably. serve as a precedent for just such an However, these examples also show occurrence should extremist elements the unwillingness of other parties— gain the upper hand in the camp. even those staunchly opposed to The first is the Nahr al-Bared conflict Fatah, such as Hamas—to allow the of 2007, in which the LAF conducted more radical elements to exploit that an assault against the newly formed ability to its fullest potential. Therefore, Fatah al-Islam, which had been while Islamist military superiority within attacking the LAF and sheltering in the the camps is indeed a valid concern, camp. The Islamists were eventually it is unlikely to endure unless it attracts flushed out, which demonstrated “the widespread popular support.23 LAF’s willingness to confront Palestinian However, as the LAF's assault on Nahr camps within Lebanon should they al-Bared demonstrated, the collateral be overrun by extremists presenting a and material damage associated with threat to Lebanese national security.”19 subduing those factions militarily is Unfortunately, the camp was reduced another matter entirely. to rubble in the process. The second is the series of clashes in Ain al-Helwe Yet not all Islamist groups in the that began on August 22, 2015 and camp are consistently and violently involved intense fighting between opposed to Fatah, such as the Osbat Fatah and certain radical factions.20 al-Ansar group, which commands a The violence followed the attempted significant presence in the camps.24 assassination of Fatah official Abu This is evidenced by the group’s role Ashraf al-Armoushi and coincided in the negotiations surrounding the with the arrest a week earlier of Sheikh development and formalization of Ahmad al-Assir, widely believed the March 2014 memorandum of to have been hiding in the camp understanding (even if that initiative

19 http://nationalinterest.org/commentary/lebanons-next-flashpoint-10118 20 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2015/Aug-22/312316-1-fatah-member-killed- in-clashes-following-assassination-attempt-in-ain-al-Helwe.ashx?utm_source=Magnet&utm_ medium=Entity%20page&utm_campaign=Magnet%20tools 21 For more on Assir, see the “External Violence linked to Ain al-Helwe” and “The Future of Ain al-Helwe” sections of this report. 22 Haya Binna interviews. 23 See “The Future of Ain al-Helwe” section for further discussion of popular support for Salafists. 24 http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2013/03/ain-al-Helwe-looming-battle.html#

124 125 soon proved ineffective) and by its been linked to allegiances relating actions following the death of Sheikh to this dispute. In one example, Orsan Suleiman in April 2014, when Mahmoud Issa—aka al-Lino—was it stormed the offices of Fatah al- dismissed from his position as a top Islam and Jund esh-Sham.25 While this security official in October 2013 underscores the potential for inter- allegedly because of his closeness factional conflict, it also emphasizes to Dahlan, a move that angered the moderate “peacekeeper” role many in the camp and provoked ire al-Ansar seems to have adopted in against Abbas.29 Disunity within Fatah this instance. Interestingly, one source and its officials inevitably followed. notes that in recent years, Osbat al- Such discord would likely weaken the Ansar and al-Haraka al-Islamiya have organization in the face of its Islamist acted as “negotiators in local feuds.”26 opponents, particularly as some of Thus, Osbat al-Ansar and other Islamist those involved appear to command factions like it may have the potential men who show more allegiance to to counterbalance the more radical them than to Fatah. groups as Hamas reportedly did during the August 2015 clashes between The risks posed by the continuing Islamists and Fatah (mentioned violence and tension in Ain al- above).27 Helwe have been recognized by the factional leadership, and efforts have The fragile political situation in Ain been made to combat it. Perhaps al-Helwe (as well as other camps) the most significant of these is the is also manifested by tension within Palestinian “elite security force,” which Fatah, although this has not erupted after much negotiation was eventually into large-scale violence. Tensions in deployed in Ain al-Helwe on July 8, Palestine between Mahmoud Abbas 2014.30 The apparent goal of that force and Mohammad Dahlan over the is to provide an effective and widely latter's alleged leadership ambitions endorsed method of maintaining seem to have affected Fatah in the peace in the camp and preventing Lebanese camps where Dahlan enjoys further infiltration by extremists.31 While support and influence.28 Appointments the exact factional composition of and dismissals of senior Fatah members that force is unclear, most reports in Lebanon (ultimately controlled by suggest that all major secular and the Palestinian Authority) may have Islamist factions within the camp are

25 For memorandum of understanding, see: http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/ Mar-28/251507-fatah-to-sign-neutrality-pact-after-islamists-agree-to-end-assassinations. ashx#axzz3A9n1RwN8. For events following the death of Sheikh Suleiman, see: http://english.al- akhbar.com/node/19589 26 https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/reportsfeatures/548045-ain-al-Helwes-violent-factionalism 27 However, for an alternative interpretation of the possible motives behind this “peacekeeper” role, see: http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/tr/originals/2013/09/lebanon-ain-Helwe-takfiri-groups- influence.html#, and http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/tr/originals/2013/09/lebanon-ain-Helwe-takfiri- groups-influence.html# 28 http://carnegieendowment.org/sada/2014/04/22/fatah-in-shadow-of-abbas-dahlan-conflict/h8se 29 http://www.gatestoneinstitute.org/4011/abbas-fatah# 30 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Jul-09/263192-joint-security-force-deployed- in-ain-al-Helwe.ashx#axzz3A9n1RwN8 31 http://time.com/3829387/ain-al-Helwe-lebanon-isis/

126 127 represented except Fatah al-Islam Lebanese organizations. Ain al-Helwe and Jund esh-Sham, although both is reportedly the nerve center of those seem initially to have made some operations, while “cells” have been concessions to its deployment.32 established in Burj al-Barajneh and As of the date of this writing, that Shatila.35 force remains deployed; however, its effectiveness at preventing inter- Such worries have been reflected in factional violence appears limited at reality, as several of the bombings best, as evidenced by the persistent that occurred in 2013 and 2014 were political conflict and numerous later traced to Ain al-Helwe. Adnan assassinations within the camp in Mohammad, who participated 2015.33 Furthermore, the radical groups in the Iranian Embassy bombing apparently resisted deployment of of November 2013, was a former the force in areas where extremist resident of the camp. Similarly, Nidal concentrations are strongest. That Hisham al-Mughayer, a participant in contention may have prompted one the Iranian Cultural Center bombing Palestinian source to characterize of February 2014, has family in the the force as little more than “traffic camp, and camp resident Naim police.”34 Abbas, a man deemed “the most dangerous terrorist in Lebanon,” was External Violence arrested in February 2014 after being Linked to Ain al-Helwe implicated in the planning of several In the past two years, concern bombings.36 Abbas was suspected over Ain al-Helwe has begun to of being a “leading member” of the expand to areas outside the camp's Abdullah Azzam Brigades group that boundaries. In a 2014 article, Mona claimed responsibility for both attacks Alami cited a Fatah source who on Iranian institutions.37 Moreover, explained that “dozens” of young several additional plots were foiled Palestinians have been trained based on information obtained from for suicide operations throughout Abbas after his arrest, giving further Lebanon. The same source indicated indication of the importance of the that the Syrian crisis has become man who seems to have used the an incentive for recruitment, and camp as his base.38 This underscores that Palestinian refugees are the the very real likelihood that the camp “bridge” between radical Syrian and plays some role in facilitating not just

32 See: https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/reportsfeatures/565138-the-dilemma-of-ain-al-Helwe, and for Fatah al-Islam/al-Shabab al-Muslim concessions to deployment see: http://www.dailystar. com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Jul-09/263192-joint-security-force-deployed-in-ain-al-Helwe. ashx#axzz3A9n1RwN8 33 http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2015/08/refugees-seek-lasting-peace-lebanon-ain-al-Helwe- 150830105256501.html 34 Haya Binna interviews. For extremists’ resistance to security force’s deployment, see: http://www. dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2015/Jun-13/301893-palestinian-factions-struggle-to-secure- joint-force-entry-into-ain-al-Helwe-neighborhood.ashx 35 http://www.mei.edu/content/impact-syria-conflict-salafis-and-jihadis-lebanon 36 For all three residents, see http://nationalinterest.org/commentary/lebanons-next-flashpoint- 10118?page=show 37 http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/02/19/us-lebanon-blast-idUSBREA1I0BQ20140219 38 http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/02/12/us-lebanon-qaeda-idUSBREA1B13520140212

126 127 the growth of extremism, but also its that fugitives and extremists consider manifestation through acts of terror. the camp a safe haven.

Clearly, Ain al-Helwe is gaining broad Radical Palestinian Elements significance. Following the LAF's assault and Hezbollah on Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir’s mosque and Much of the discussion surrounding followers in June 2013, rumors persisted radicalism within Ain al-Helwe has cited that Assir and his ally Fadl Shaker the impact it could have on relations sought refuge in the camp along with Hezbollah and the Shia community, with many of his surviving followers.39 and the potential confrontation that Despite Assir’s subsequent denial on may ensue from any deterioration in social media that he was hiding in the those relations. Such a confrontation could be sparked both by opposing camp, his eventual arrest in August positions on the Syrian crisis, and 2015 appeared to confirm those widely a more fundamental ideological held suspicions.40 Other fugitives said to opposition among Salafi groups to the have hidden in the camp include Tripoli vvery existence of organizations such militants Shadi Mawlawi and Osama as Hezbollah, which they consider Mansour, reported by The Daily Star "apostate." Considering the wave of to have been hiding in Ain al-Helwe bombings that rocked Lebanon in 2013 since late November 2014. In response, and 2014 (some of which have been Palestinian officials would not confirm linked to Ain al-Helwe) and targeted that Mawlawi (or Assir) were in the Hezbollah's areas and allies, that camp—despite claims by the LAF that it concern indeed has merit. Additionally, had strong intelligence to the contrary. the camp's location on the highway Notably, Mansour was eventually shot that links Beirut to Hezbollah's heartlands dead by security forces in Tripoli.41 In in the south is likely to intensify the related incidents, youths in the camp group’s anxiety in the event radical on December 2, 2014 protested media elements gain greater power within the claims that Ain al-Helwe had been camp.43 As noted in this chapter, further hosting terrorists, while rumors began Islamist gains are not impossible; indeed, spreading on January 3, 2015 that ISIL Hezbollah would likely be one of the (Daesh) members were hiding there.42 parties seeking to reverse the effects of Both incidents provide further evidence such changes if they occur.44

39 http://www.mcclatchydc.com/2013/12/19/212190/concern-grows-in-lebanon-over.html 40 Haya Binna interviews. For Assir’s denial, see: http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/ Dec-05/280007-assir-im-not-in-ain-al-Helwe.ashx 41 For Mawlawi and Mansour’s presence since November, see: http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/ Lebanon-News/2014/Nov-22/278541-mawlawi-mansour-in-ain-al-Helwe-camp-security-sources.ashx. For LAF reports and Palestinian lack of confirmation, see: http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon- News/2014/Nov-26/278949-camp-officials-investigating-mawlawis-presence-in-ain-al-Helwe.ashx. For Mansour’s death, see http://www.ibtimes.com/how-al-qaedas-syrian-affiliate-jabhat-al-nusra-trying- take-northern-lebanon-1901604 42 For protests, see: http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Dec-02/279646-ain-al- Helwe-residents-denounce-campaign-to-distort-camps-image.ashx. For ISIL rumors, see: http:// www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2015/Jan-03/282970-isis-seeking-bases-inside-lebanon- security-chief.ashx?utm_source=Magnet&utm_medium=Related%20Articles%20widget&utm_ campaign=Magnet%20tools 43 http://www.mcclatchydc.com/2013/12/02/210311/fleeing-syrian-rebels-accused.html 44 Journalist Mona Alami states that the camps’ “power paradigm” has shifted toward the Islamists. See: http://www.mei.edu/content/impact-syria-conflict-salafis-and-jihadis-lebanon

128 129 From a Palestinian perspective, al- intelligence—which also maintains Jihad al-Islami leader Sheikh Jamal influence within the camp. While it is Khattab stated that Hezbollah believed that disagreements have provokes and oppresses the local occurred between LAF intelligence population via its proxy Resistance and Hezbollah over the handling Brigades operating in Saida. Khattab of some situations within the camp, warned that a worst-case scenario Hezbollah relies on the LAF to some in Palestinian-Hezbollah relations extent for influence in Ain al-Helwe. could be something akin to the Notably, the LAF has the advantage “War of the Camps.”45 Furthermore, of controlling the military court under the same article quotes Lebanese which many Palestinians are due security sources as saying that several trial, and which may consequently of the groups in Ain al-Helwe would be used for purposes of coercion or be prepared to fight in Saida should bribery.48 Hezbollah take actions similar to those of 2008, when it briefly took control of Perhaps the most renowned large swaths of west Beirut.46 Hezbollah proxy is the aforementioned Resistance Brigades, Khattab’s reference to Hezbollah’s which is composed largely of non- use of proxies touches on what has Shia forces loyal to the party.49 This become an important feature of group appears to have a generally its relationship with the Palestinian complex relationship with the factions camps. As noted by Al-Jazeera, inside Ain al-Helwe. Some reports Hezbollah has maintained its indicate that the Brigades have been influence in the camps (which would recruiting significant numbers of otherwise have been lost following personnel from Ain al-Helwe and its Syria’s departure from Lebanon in Taamir neighborhood (apparently the 2005) in an effort to counter Sunni principal Salafist area in the camp).50 elements.47 The use of proxies is a However, the group also seems to considerably less provocative means have provoked substantial ire among of accomplishing this outcome the Salafists, as some of its members compared to direct intervention by were targeted for assassination in Hezbollah. One interesting approach Ain al-Helwe, the most publicized to doing this is through its relationship instance of which was the murder of with the LAF—principally LAF Marwan Issa in early April 2015.51

45 See the “Ain al-Helwe and its Factions” section of this report for a brief description of the War of the Camps. For Khattab quotes, see: http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Jan- 09/243527-palestinians-fear-war-with-hezbollah.ashx#axzz3A9n1RwN8 46 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Dec-15/281135-police-arrest-2-over-ain-al- Helwe-attack.ashx 47 http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/features/2013/05/20135791049958517.html 48 Haya Binna interviews 49 https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/reportsfeatures/564784-hezbollah-unlikely-to-drop-resistance-brigades and http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Apr-04/252252-hezbollah-reactivating- resistance-brigades-in-sidon.ashx 50 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/Article.aspx?id=227771#axzz3A9n1RwN8 51 This article cites five assassination attempts in Ain al-Helwe against Resistance Brigades members in 2015: http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2015/May-05/296842-specter-of- assassinations-revived-in-ain-al-Helwe.ashx.

128 129 Two other incidents give further disagreement” rather than political insight into tensions possibly related undertones was responsible for the to Hezbollah’s allegiances within the clash.55 camps. On April 7, 2014, eight people were killed in clashes in Mieh Mieh, a A second incident, which occurred on small Palestinian camp located east of June 30, 2014, involved gunfire on the Saida. The violence reportedly began fringes of Beirut's Shatila camp between when members of Ansar Allah, a group supporters of Arab Movement Party led by former Fatah official Jamal head Shaker Berjawi, and a group Suleiman attacked the headquarters of Palestinians who may have been of Ahmad Rashid Adwan, also a serving as security personnel within the former Fatah official and leader of the camp. The casualties included two Shuhadaa Al-Awdah group. Adwan, people killed and four injured, and the his bodyguard and two of his brothers situation was eventually resolved by the were killed in the attack.52 What makes LAF.56 Berjawi, seen by some people as that attack significant is thatAnsar a tool of Hezbollah, has been identified Allah, a group with “strong Salafi-jihadi as an ideal candidate to lead a credentials,” is considered a close ally Sunni militia proxy under Hezbollah of Hezbollah, with Al-Sharq al-Awsat influence.57 In 2008, his organization quoting a Mieh source as having switched allegiances from March 14 to stated, “Jamal Suleiman is a supporter March 8 and has since been involved of Hezbollah since his defection from in at least two other violent incidents Fatah in 1989 and is close to the Shiite (May 2012 and March 2014), both movement. He heads a large armed of which took place in Beirut against group in the camp.”53 For its part, anti-Assad factions (possibly Salafists Shuhadaa al-Awdah is a relatively new in the latter incident).58 In recent militia composed largely of former years, Berjawi has moved his party's Fatah members and financed by headquarters to the fringes of Shatila, Mohammad Dahlan.54 Fatah sources which may indicate “the importance of were quick to say that a “personal the camp’s support.”59 However, police

52 For details of the attack and the belligerents, as well as Ansar Allah allegiance to Hezbollah, see: http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Apr-08/252650-palestinian-camp-clashes- shake-security-in-south.ashx#axzz385prlUx6. 53 For the “strong Salafi-jihadi credentials” quote, see footnote no.25 on: https://www.ctc.usma.edu/ posts/the-syrian-spillover-and-salafist-radicalization-in-lebanon. For al-Sharq al-Awsat quote, see: http://www.aawsat.net/2014/04/article55330961 54 See “Tension and Violence within Ain al-Helwe” in this report for details of strife within Fatah involving Dahlan. For Shuhadaa al-Awdah details, see: https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/lebanonnews/540421- new-palestinian-militant-group-in-ain-al-Helwe 55 http://www.aawsat.net/2014/04/article55330961 56 For details of clashes, see: http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Jun-30/262133- one-killed-two-wounded-in-beirut-shootout.ashx#axzz385prlUx6. For Shatila personnel on opposing side see: http://www.naharnet.com/stories/en/136967-2-dead-several-hurt-in-clash-at-shatila- palestinian-camp. 57 For the perception of Berjawi as a tool of Hezbollah/Amal, see: http://english.al-akhbar.com/ node/7542. For his suitability to lead a Hezbollah proxy see: http://www.atimes.com/atimes/Middle_ East/NE23Ak02.html 58 For Berjawi’s switch in allegiance, see: http://www.washingtoninstitute.org/policy-analysis/view/ syrias-crisis-reaches-beirut. For the May 2012 clash, see: http://www.atimes.com/atimes/Middle_East/ NE23Ak02.html, for March 2014, see: http://www.naharnet.com/stories/en/123548 59 http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/features/2013/05/20135791049958517.html

130 131 sources noted that the violence was careful to let the LAF take the lead, related to drug trafficking.60 particularly since Hassan Nasrallah stated that interference in the camps Speculation on any specific motives constituted a “red line” for Hezbollah.61 among the belligerents in these two incidents (particularly Berjawi) would Ultimately, this line of argument can probably be unjustifiable given the lack refer to the view that Hezbollah's of evidence. However, it may be noted image and prestige rests with its status that they demonstrate the existence as a member of the “Resistance,” of tension in refugee camps other of which the Palestinian cause is a than Ain al-Helwe and the capacity crucial component. Thus, Hezbollah's and willingness of reputed Hezbollah credentials (and the ideology upon proxies to act within these camps— which it was founded) would suffer even if Hezbollah did not instigate the if it attacked the Palestinians and incidents. Accordingly, such clashes betrayed their cause. Saidel notes that are indicative of the continuing relations between the two parties have aggression being directed at Hezbollah already become strained by the Syrian from certain radical factions, the crisis, as evidenced by the burning reason for which seems in part to be of Hezbollah-provided aid in Ain al- motivated by its use of proxies. Helwe in May 2013. Similarly, during the battle of al-Quseir in spring 2013, Alternatively, while the indications Hezbollah and Hamas may have been noted above may seem ominous, the pitted against each other indirectly likelihood of a conflict developing due to the support Hamas provided to between Hezbollah and its Palestinian the opposition. According to Saidel, counterparts has been disputed. it is unlikely that Hezbollah would risk Writing for The National Interest, aggravating those relations further. Nicholas Saidel notes that a number The desire for a non-confrontational of restraints could prevent such a resolution to this issue by Hezbollah conflict. For instance, Hezbollah has (and other Shia elements) is also strong ties (both current and historical) somewhat apparent in the March to the Palestinians, as evidenced by 2014 memorandum of understanding the support it gave them in the “War concluded by the Ain al-Helwe of the Camps.” Saidel also argues that factions, Hezbollah and Amal. Saidel the precedent for Hezbollah’s actions notes that while the memorandum should a radical Sunni uprising take would probably prove insignificant place in the camps was set in 2007 at in the event of an escalation (as is Nahr al-Bared (when Fatah al-Islam the case regarding the prevention of rose up in a manner similar to what inter-factional clashes), it is nonetheless could occur in Ain al-Helwe). In that evidentiary of the desire to avoid situation, Hezbollah was extremely conflict.

60 http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Jul-01/262224-beirut-refugee-camp-clashes- kill-3.ashx#axzz385prlUx6 61 For all Saidel commentary, see: http://nationalinterest.org/commentary/lebanons-next-flashpoint- 10118?page=show. While there have been strong indications that Hezbollah aided the army in its 2013 battle against al-Assir, the circumstances of that conflict were different; it did not occur in Ain al-Helwe, nor was it focused on the Palestinians (Haya Binna interviews).

130 131 The Future of Ain al-Helwe future; however, in the two closest The issue of radicalism within the precedents to a future extremist camps has received a great uprising in the camps, the extremists deal of coverage during the last did not enjoy the support of the wider several years, and the matter has population. become increasingly important with developments outside Lebanon, In writing this report, Haya Bina asked most significantly the Syrian crisis. a Palestinian school director at one of However, some people argue that the larger camps to predict what Ain the phenomenon remains an issue of al-Helwe might look like in 2025. He relatively limited extent. A July 2013 replied: CTC report notes that despite a recent increase, support for radical Salafists I don’t think there will be a camp among the general Sunni population anymore! There is a growing does not seem to have taken hold. feeling among all Palestinians For example, the conditions that that the “right of return” is just facilitated Ahmad al-Assir’s rise to a fantasy. In reality, people are prominence before the June 2013 more likely to seek their own way clashes (such as an absence of strong out—whether in Lebanon (though Sunni leadership, the Syrian crisis and that’s no one's first choice) or Hezbollah’s involvement in that crisis) by escaping on a boat with the have not dissipated. Yet the continued dream of reaching a European lack of support for al-Assir outside his shore. And regardless of that, just own group indicates the absence look at the future of Saida. Can of a broad consensus. Thus, when you really imagine that with a al-Assir called on his fellow Sunnis successful cleanup of the Saida to join the fight, he received little if dumpsite, and Saida having its any real backing, even from other SOLIDERE, that the camp will Salafist groups. While the same report remain as it is today?63 mentions minor attacks on the LAF by the Bilal al-Badr and Jund esh-Sham While the timeline necessary for factions during the siege, it also notes such a transformation has likely efforts by Osbat al-Ansar, al-Jihad al- been vastly underestimated by Islami, Hamas and Fatah to support our interviewee, his reference to the LAF and keep the peace. Finally, the growing abandonment of the the report notes that a similar situation “right of return” is important, as arose with the Nahr al-Bared clashes of this concept may be regarded 2007, when Fatah al-Islam was isolated as part of the “glue” that until and left to fight on its own due to a now has held the camp together lack of external support.62 Of course, and preserved its extraterritorial the possibility remains that any or all character.64 Furthermore, his of these movements may benefit from reference to the future of Saida increased support sometime in the should be understood in a broader

62 https://www.ctc.usma.edu/posts/the-syrian-spillover-and-salafist-radicalization-in-lebanon 63 Haya Binna interviews. More information about the “Solidere” plan is available at http://www.solidere. com/. 64 Haya Binna interviews.

132 133 context. As in other parts of Lebanon, due to these factors. After all, this Saida is experiencing significant would demand its isolation from its urban redistribution, which is being broader surroundings (already being driven by two primary factors: threatened by demographic shifts), first, sectarian redistribution in the and future commercial parties would greater Saida area that continues likely not stand for such a volatile to obscure existing Sunni/Shia area so close to their interests. demarcation lines, and second, the However, it should also be noted that vast real estate developments that, although this scenario is not beyond since the end of the civil war, have the realm of possibility, neither is it proved to be the point at which the often conflicting interests of the something that will occur in the near country's ruling “mafiocracy” are term. In the meantime, the “capital becoming blurred.65 As the school of Palestinian exile” will likely remain director suggested, Ain al-Helwe one of the foremost sources of may not retain its present condition threats to Lebanon’s stability.

65 Ibid.

132 133 Blank Page Chronology of Major Events at Palestinian Camps

2013 January Muslim Brotherhood) developed into a fight in 2 the Taamir quarter (Ain al-Helwe). » An explosive device was discovered at the entrance to a garage in the Hittin quarter of 14 Ain al-Helwe. The device was composed of 250 » A hand grenade was thrown toward a grams of explosives placed in a cup along with balcony in al-Manshiyyeh quarter (Ain al-Helwe) two wires. It was not rigged to explode. but caused only material damage.

17 18 » A hand grenade was thrown toward the » In Ain al-Helwe, a hand grenade was thrown premises of the Palestinian pro-Assad regime as- toward the home of former Fatah el-Islam Saiqa organization. Although the attack caused member (Palestinian) Mahmoud Ibrahim no injuries, the organization was later forced to Mansour. In response, Mansour fired a weapon leave the premises so that Palestinian refugees toward the alley where he assumed the from Syria could be relocated there. attackers had fled. Following that assault, more » It was announced through loudspeakers grenades were thrown. across Ain al-Helwe that Palestinian Mahmoud Kamel Suleiman, a cousin of Ansar Allah leader 26 Jamal Suleiman was killed as a “martyr” in Syria » A grenade was thrown in the Hittin quarter while fighting on the side of some Islamist groups. and another in Hay az-Zeeb (Ain al-Helwe). In a public hall, the individual's family received "congratulations" on his "martyrdom." March 11 31 » An assassination attempt against Islamist » An argument between two individuals in Jund esh-Sham leader Bilal Bader failed. the Beddawi refugee camp devolved into a However, he and four others were injured in the shooting. Both men were injured along with attack (Ain al-Helwe). three passersby. » The assassination of Fatah Movement February member Khaled Ahmad al-Masri triggers clashes 4 in some quarters of Ain al-Helwe. The fights » A school affiliated with the Fatah Movement involved the Fatah Movement and supporters of in Ain al-Helwe was broken into. The security Fatah el-Islam. guards were handcuffed and seven Kalashnikovs were stolen. 13 » A grenade was thrown toward Tiri, the quarter 11 controlled by the Bilal Bader group. » An argument over politics between supporters of a Lebanese Sunni pro-Hezbollah April organization and others belonging to the 22 Jamaa Islamiyya (Lebanese offshoot of the » More clashes occur between members of

PB 135 Bilal Bader’s group and Fatah, and two people 28 are injured. » A Hezbollah public relations project in Ain al-Helwe that involved aiding Syrian and 24 Palestinian refugees from Syria backfires. The » A masked man caused panic on Fawkani refugees burned several aid containers to Street in Ain al-Helwe when he began shooting protest Hezbollah's interference in the Syrian randomly. A grenade was thrown in the same war. spot. More clashes took place later that night » Eleven teachers and students were injured June 17 when an explosion occurred near the Jabal » In Tiri (a quarter in Ain al-Helwe), a member of Tabor School in Naher al-Bared camp. the Fatah cadre was injured after being shot. 26 18 » A sit-in outside the UNRWA services office in Beddawi staged by Palestinians displaced from » In Jabal Beddawi, a real estate argument Syria turned violent. The refugees threatened developed into an armed fight during which to occupy the UNRWA office and its schools machine guns and rocket-propelled grenades and institutions if they failed to receive a rental were used. allowance or a place to stay. Representatives from various Palestinian factions intervened to July calm the crowd. 11 » LAF Intelligence stopped a car with Syrian 28 license plates as it was leaving the Ain al-Helwe » A grenade was thrown in the Ain al-Helwe quarter of Taamir. The car was supposedly vegetable market and random shooting heading to the Taware quarter (also in Ain followed. al-Helwe), where it was going to be booby- trapped with explosives for later use. » The removal of an illegal construction project in Wadi al-Nahle (Beddawi) resulted 15 in the deaths of three people (including an » Leaks by the security sources indicate that ISF member). Nine others were injured in a two people arrested in connection with a truck clash between the security forces and area filled with explosives seized by the LAF in Orsal residents. Some information indicates that the came from Ain al-Helwe. Both were Palestinians, illegal projects were intended to satisfy the and both were previously members of Fatah “real estate” demand caused by the arrival of Movement. steadily more Palestinian refugees from Syria. August 29 9 » Palestinian security forces scoured the » The arrest of a drug dealer in Beirut led to area around Ain al-Helwe's vegetable market accusations of his involvement in assassinations, following the explosion of a grenade and some attempted assassinations and shootings in the shooting. Ain al-Helwe camp.

May 12 2 » A member of the Fatah cadre was attacked » A bomb exploded in al-Manshiyyeh quarter as he was returning to his house in Ain al-Helwe. (Ain al-Helwe) and injured five people. September 19 2 » A fight occurred in Ain al-Helwe between » Palestinian pro-Assad organizations in the bodyguards of two competing Fatah Movement Burj Shamali refugee camp (Tyr) organized a leaders. Both were injured. demonstration inside the camp to show support » Clashes occur between members and for the regime and protest any foreign military supporters of Fatah Movement and Bilal Bader's action against it. Jund esh-Sham. The violence began when a Fatah building was attacked by the Bilal 8 Bader group. Heavy weapons were used and » An argument at a Hezbollah checkpoint at numerous injuries occurred. the entrance to the Burj al-Barajneh refugee

136 137 camp turns into a shooting. One Palestinian was of a resident of Ain al-Helwe who had been killed and five others injured. fighting in Syria.

October December 4 1 » An explosive device hidden in a garbage bin » A gunman shot Jund esh-Sham member exploded at the west entrance to Ain al-Helwe. Mohammad al-Saadi on Fawkani Street in Ain al-Helwe as well as a member of another 26 organization. Clashes between Fatah » Heavy shooting erupts in some quarters members and Jund esh-Sham erupted later of Ain al-Helwe. The firing was to celebrate and injured two civilians. the “martyrdom” of a Palestinian from the camp who had been fighting with the Syrian 3 opposition. » During the funeral for Mohammad November al-Saadi (mentioned above), a bomb 24 exploded which killed four people (including » A suspicious object was spotted in the the bomber). Taamir quarter of Ain al-Helwe near the home of a member of the pro-Hezbollah "Resistance 30 Brigades." Two Palestinians were later arrested. » A number of people gathered near the LAF checkpoint at the southern entrance to 26 Ain al-Helwe to protest tightened LAF security » An-Nusra Front announced the “martyrdom” measures. 2014 January April 2 7 » In cooperation with Palestinian factions, the » Fierce clashes occurred inside the Mieh LAF raided a complex in Jabal Beddawi near Mieh camp east of Saida which killed seven the Beddawi refugee camp. people and injured 10. The clashes involved pro- Nine people were arrested in connection with Hezbollah Ansar Allah and anti-Assad/Hezbollah terrorist activities that occurred in Lebanon. Katibat Shouhadaa al-Awda. The violence destroyed the nucleus of the latter organization. 12 » A Palestinian was arrested in the Rashidiyyeh 9 refugee camp. The individual was allegedly » A masked assailant opened fire in Ain al- planning to blow himself up at an LAF Helwe refugee camp on Sheikh Arsan Sleiman. Sleiman was a representative of an anti-Salafi checkpoint outside the camp. Islamic group known for its connections with the February Assad regime. 24 15 » Unknown masked assailants in Ain al-Helwe » Sheikh Arsan Sleiman passes away. shot dead a relative of Palestinian Hicham al- Mughayir, one of the two suicide bombers who 21 blew themselves up outside the Iranian Embassy » Ali Khalil, nephew and escort of Islamist leader on November 19. Oussama ash-Shahabi, was shot dead in the Safsaf quarter of Ain al-Helwe. March 31 May » Security sources revealed that a body 4 discovered in Jezzine (east of Saida) ten days » Tension returned to the Mieh Mieh refugee prior was that of a Palestinian man in his 30s, camp in Saida when elements from the Ansar who was a resident of Ain al-Helwe. The reason Allah movement took control of the Katibat behind the man's killing remained unknown. Shouhadaa al-Awda building.

136 137 8 members and elements of the Islamist Osbat » The attempted assassination of a Jund al-Ansar (from the large, Shreidy family). esh-Sham member sparks tension and violence in Ain al-Helwe refugee camp. 6 » A minor clash occurs in Mieh Mieh 12 following the slaughter of Katibat » Clashes take place between Bilal Bader’s Shouhadaa al-Awda members. supporters and members of the Fatah Movement. Six people were injured. 8 » A Joint Palestinian Security Force is 14 deployed throughout the Ain al-Helwe » An argument in Ain al-Helwe's vegetable refugee camp. market erupts into gunfire. August 17 7 » Soldiers manning an LAF checkpoint at » A grenade was thrown into Fawkani the eastern entrance to Ain al-Helwe arrest a Street in Ain al-Helwe. man disguised as a woman. 16 19 » Shaker, the wanted former singer and » Senior Fatah security officer Talal al- companion to Salafi Sheikh Ahmad al- Ordony survived an assassination attempt in Assir, appears in Ain al-Helwe. He was the Hittin quarter of Ain al-Helwe; however, accompanied by several bodyguards. Al-Ordony was assassinated in July 2015. 19 22 » A hand grenade was thrown into an » Islamist group Osbat al-Ansar conducted alley leading to the premises of senior Fatah a show of force outside its headquarters officer Khaled al-Shayeb, the commander of in the Ain al-Helwe refugee camp. The the newly formed Joint Palestinian Security event was apparently connected to the Forces. negotiations between various Palestinian factions and Lebanese authorities to form 20 a “joint security force” and deploy it in the » An argument in the Braksat quarter of Ain camp. al-Helwe becomes an armed clash.

June September 1 2 » The Mieh Mieh-based Ansar Allah group » An argument between two neighbors in releases a Palestinian from Ain al-Helwe. Ain al-Helwe devolved into armed violence. They arrested the individual earlier during an The altercation began when one of the men operation they conducted against Katibat tried to frighten birds away from the other's Shouhadaa al-Awda. roof.

6 7 » A family fight in Ain al-Helwe devolved » In response to the burning of an ISIL flag into gunfire, which injured three people. during a Lebanese television show, Islamist Palestinians set fire to a large wooden cross 12 near the vegetable market of Ain al-Helwe. » Tension spikes again in Mieh Mieh. 29 29 » A masked group carrying black flags took » An unknown individual opened fire on a control of the streets near Ain al-Helwe's group of Fatah members in Ain al-Helwe. vegetable market. One individual was injured. 30 July » A random clash occurred in the Braksat 2 quarter of Ain al-Helwe, and one person was » Sparks fly in Ain al-Helwe between Fatah injured.

138 139 October Hezbollah-affiliated Al-Manar TV announced 2 that Shady al-Mawlawy is being sheltered in Ain » Soldiers manning an LAF checkpoint at the al-Helwe. entrance to Ain al-Helwe spotted a balloon The LAF increased security at all of its floating nearby with ISIL (Daesh) written on it. checkpoints around Ain al-Helwe. 26 4 » According to An-Nahar newspaper, the LAF » A random fight in Beddawi refugee camp commander in south Lebanon disclosed to injures three people. Palestinian officials inside Ain al-Helwe that his agency had information that al-Mawlawi was in 8 the camp and urged them to “take appropriate » A masked gunman kills Fatah member Walid action.” Yassine in his shop on Fawkani Street (Ain al- Helwe). Two other people were injured. December 2 10 » The An-Nashra website reports that Salafi » Yassine's murder triggers clashes between his Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir and Shady al-Mawlawy family and the Ansar Allah group. are preparing to leave Ain al-Helwe after being pressured by the Palestinian factions. 24 » A Syrian-Palestinian refugee was whipped 4 by unknown individuals in the Taware quarter » Gunshots were heard in Taamir (Ain al-Helwe). (Ain al-Helwe) for having allegedly harassed the relative of a female refugee. 12 » A grenade was thrown at Jabal al-Halib near 27 the southeast entrance to Ain al-Helwe. » A minor fight took place on Fawkani Street (Ain al-Helwe) when a speeding car disturbed 13 residents. » A grenade was thrown in the Hittin quarter (Ain al-Helwe). November 3 17 » Security precautions were increased » A grenade was thrown at Jabal al-Halib dramatically near the Beddawi refugee camp and in Tripoli's Mankubin quarter following an 29 LAF operation in Akkar that led to the arrest of a » General Security announces the arrest of a terrorist cell. Palestinian in northern Lebanon on suspicion of transporting explosives to Ain al-Helwe. 19 » The mouthpiece of Osbat al-Ansar stated 30 that Islamist leader Shady el-Mawlawy, who fled » An explosive device targeted a Fatah Tripoli after clashes with the LAF, could not be premises on Fawkani Street. in Ain al-Helwe given the LAF's intense security » A clash occurred in the Taytaba quarter of measures in effect outside all Palestinian camps. Ain al-Helwe between the local committee and members of Fatah. 21 » Al-Jadeed TV confirms that Shady al- 31 Mawlawy and his family are in Ain al-Helwe. » A bomb in Ain al-Helwe failed to explode. The incident occurred as the Fatah movement 25 was celebrating its 50th anniversary in a march » Abed Fodda, a former Jund esh-Sham through the camp. member, survived an assassination attempt in A hand grenade thrown on Fawkani Street failed Safsaf quarter (Ain al-Helwe). to injure Talal al-Ordoni.

138 139 Blank Page Chronology of Major Politically Oriented, Security Related Events

2013

January 8 2 » Lebanese President Michel Suleiman » On May 2012, a group of Lebanese Shia announces his rejection of the electoral law pilgrims returning from a visit to Shia shrines in known as the “Greek Orthodox electoral law” Iran was abducted in northern Syria. The case (the legislation was suggested by a group dragged on for more than a year until the called the “Orthodox Gathering”). The law group was finally released in October 2013. suggests that each religious community should On this date, the families of the kidnapped elect its own MPs to the Lebanese parliament. participated in a sit-in outside the Turkish Airlines office in downtown Beirut. The event 11 was part of the series of activities they were » During a conference, former minister undertaking to secure the release of their Michel Edde states, “80% of Maronites are family members. living outside Lebanon.” 13 3 » Supporters of Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir stage » Hezbollah Secretary-General Sayyed sit-ins at various locations in Saida to protest Hassan Nasrallah asks the government to Hezbollah's weapons. negotiate directly with those holding the Lebanese Shia pilgrims. He also states that 17 Turkey, Qatar and Saudi Arabia have authority » Lebanon’s first civil marriage is announced. over the fighters in Syria, as they are providing The legality of the marriage is based on them with weapons and money. Decree number 60/1936, which dates back to » A cabinet session illustrated the deep the French mandate over Lebanon. chasm within the government between those advocating a positive approach to the 18 refugee issue and those advocating closure » Minister Faisal Karameh's convoy is of the Lebanese-Syrian border. The minister of attacked in Tripoli. interior suggests building camps. 20 4 » Prison authorities foil the attempted escape » Druze leader Walid Jumblatt visits the of 60 Fatah al-Islam inmates from Roumieh Maronite Patriarch and announces his Prison. discovery of a solution to the real estate dispute that has impeded full reconciliation 24 between Druze and Christians in Breeh » Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir and around 300 of (Chouf/Mount Lebanon). His solution his supporters travel from Saida (South) to facilitates the return of Christians to Breeh Farayya (Mount Lebanon) to enjoy the snow. after having been expelled from there some Christian residents of the area object and 30 years ago during the civil war. block the roadway. Security forces resolve the

PB 141 situation, after which Assir arrives in Farayya prayer in Beirut’s Sunni stronghold of Tarik and conducts some prayers. Jdideh. He threatens to halt “the siege of Orsal” by force. 25 » Several Sunni clerics condemn the civil 10 marriage: “[As] long as there is a Muslim alive » Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir visits Tripoli and meets in Lebanon, it will not pass.” several of the city's political and clerical figures. » UNHCR states that the number of registered 28 Syrian refugees in Lebanon is at 265,308. » An explosive device composed of 500 grams of TNT explodes under a car in Dahiyeh. 13 The incident occurred near an Ashoura » A group of protesters stops several Syrian gathering in Hayy es Sollom, which was fuel trucks at the northern al-Arida pass. They organized by the Amal Movement. Two people claim the fuel being carried will be used by are injured and significant material damage the regime's military. Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir results. announces that he will take to the streets to February prevent trucks from transporting fuel to the Syrian army. 1 » An LAF patrol hunting Islamist militant Khaled al-Humeid is ambushed in Orsal. Two 14 soldiers are killed and several others are » The eighth anniversary of the assassination of injured, one of whom is an officer. former Prime Minister Rafic Hariri was held under the slogan, “We will make the dream come » The Military Court's general prosecutor true.” For alleged security purposes, most of the files a lawsuit against Hezbollah member notable participants were absent. Through a Mahmoud al-Hayek. Al-Hayek is charged with video feed from Riyadh, Saad Hariri attacked attempting to assassinate MP Boutros Harb in Hezbollah and its weapons, and promised to his Badaro office on July 5, 2012. return to Lebanon to participate in the elections.

4 15 » The LAF strengthens its presence in and » A dispute arises between the LAF and Orsal around Orsal and arrests several individuals. residents, who are protesting the military activity » Former Prime Minister Saad Hariri urges Orsal there. residents to act reasonably and cooperate » Supporters of Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir set up with the LAF. roadblocks in Saida and declare that they will prevent any truck from transporting fuel to Syria. 5 » The Bulgarian minister of interior accuses 18 Hezbollah of the July 2012 Burgas attack, » A cabinet session planned to examine in which a bus filled with Israeli tourists was the rank and salary scales of public sector bombed. employees is postponed, allegedly due to inadequate identification of funding » Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir organizes a sit-in in sources. Trade union bodies announce an Saida to demand that the LAF cease what he open strike. calls “the siege of Orsal.” He states that any act against Orsal is an act against the Sunnis 19 of Lebanon. » A statement attributed to the Free Syrian Army promises to attack Hezbollah in Lebanon 7 if it continues to support the Syrian regime. An » Following a ruling made to expel a Syrian FSA spokesperson denies the authenticity of the defector, Lebanese President Michel Suleiman statement. vetoes the expulsion of any Syrian to Syria. » Clerics led by Bekaa Mufti Sheikh Khalil al- 20 Meiss visit Orsal to mediate the crisis. » A senior military investigative judge indicts former Information Minister Michel Samaha 8 and Syrian General Ali al-Mamlouk for plotting » Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir conducts a communal against Lebanon security.

142 143 » In a press conference, Sheikh Ahmad 5 al-Assir asks the security forces to clear a » Public sector employees demonstrate on number of apartments in Abra (east of Saida), the road to Baabda Presidential Palace. which he claims are being used by Hezbollah militants to observe his movements. He 8 threatens to take action himself if the state » Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir stages a sit-in at fails to do so. Saida's northern entrance.

22 11 » In his Abra (east of Saida) stronghold, Sheikh » In an interview, Lebanese President Michel Ahmad al-Assir appears with a gun alongside Suleiman states that 25% of Lebanon’s armed supporters to confront what he calls population is now composed of refugees. He armed Hezbollah members. urges the international community to help.

23 12 » An armed Islamist group breaks into a » The LAF stops a car near Sheikh Ahmad hospital in Tripoli and releases a detainee al-Assir’s mosque in Abra. This prompts rumors accused of shooting at Minister Karameh's of an LAF attempt to arrest Assir. As a result, convoy. many of his supporters block roads in Beirut and Tripoli. 24 » In downtown Beirut, Salafi groups stage 13 a sit-in to demand the release of Islamist » Supporters of Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir block detainees. The most prominent speaker is the Saida-Jezzine road at Abra to protest LAF Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir, who launches what actions near Assir’s Bilal Bin Rabah Mosque. he calls the "Uprising for Dignity." Assir calls for a sit-in that same day to halt what he terms the “siege” of the mosque. » Druze leader Walid Jumblatt states, “Hezbollah is fighting in Syria upon Iran’s 14 request.” » The eighth anniversary of the Cedar » Two people are killed in Wadi Khaled Revolution was marked by figures from (north Lebanon) when the Syrian army shells the March 14 Alliance visiting tombs of the the area. revolution's martyrs and holding a symbolic gathering at the statue in Sahet al-Horriye. 25 Another March 14 delegation visited Pierre » Trade union movements continue to Gmayyel's tomb in Bekfaya. demand that parliament examine the rank » Fuel tankers heading to Syria are set on fire in and salary scale and stage a sit-in outside the al-Baddawi (north) area. the central Bank. » A kidnapped child is released after his 15 parents pay a US$132,000 ransom. » Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir holds prayers in his mosque in Abra—without an LAF presence— 26 and calls for calm. » Al-Assir calls on his supporters to close a Shia cultural/religious center near Saida run 17 by a pro-Hezbollah cleric. » A group of Shiite youths in the Khandak al-Ghameeq neighborhood of Beirut assault March two Sunni sheikhs. This prompts roadblocks 1 and protests by Sunni youths. In a separate » During an uprising in Roumieh Prison, a incident, two more Sunni sheikhs passing by the number of ISF members are taken hostage Shia neighborhood of Cheyyah (Beirut)are also but are later released. assaulted.

2 18 » A senior Salafi figure from north Lebanon, » In several Sunni quarters of Beirut and other Sheikh ash-Shahhal, threatens to issue a areas throughout Lebanon, roads are blocked fatwa against those he believes are hurting overnight with burning tires to protest the the Sunni people. assaults on the Sunni sheikhs.

142 143 20 witnesses in the Special Tribunal for Lebanon are » Clashes in Tripoli leave one dead and six published on the Future Movement's website, Al- wounded. Mustaqbal newspaper and several other outlets. » Wanted Salafi militant Shadi al-Mawlawi of 10 Tripoli informs an-Nahar newspaper, “I will not » An explosive device inscribed with anti- obey the courts, and politicians owe me a lot.” Hezbollah slogans is supposedly discovered in Hay as-Sellom. 21 » Clashes resume in Tripoli. 11 » Syrian warplanes bomb the Orsal countryside 22 injuring 10 people. » A cabinet session ends without agreement on extending the mandate of (Sunni) ISF head » President Michel Suleiman deems it an Ashraf Rifi. With that incident as justification, unjustified attack and asks the LAF to provide Prime Minister Najib Mikati announces the the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with the details of resignation of his government. the incident. » Armed clashes continue in Tripoli. 14 » Syrian rebels shell the Shia villages of Haouch 24 as-Sayyed Ali and al-Qasr in Hermel. Two people » A member of the Bekaa's Shia Jaafar clan are killed and six injured. is kidnapped near Orsal. The Jaafar clan responds by kidnapping five people from Orsal. 21 » The LAF deploys to the neighborhood of » Shia villages in Hermel are shelled again. Jabal Mohsen in Tripoli in an attempt to halt » A sit-in is staged by families of the Islamist the clashes between Jabal Mohsen and Bab at detainees in Roumieh, while the detainees Tabbeneh. themselves also stage a sit-in in prison. 27 22 » In an interview with as-Safir newspaper » In response to Hezbollah’s involvement in conducted from France (where he traveled Syria, Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir announces the for security reasons), Tripoli Grand Mufti formation of “Free Resistance Brigades” that will Sheikh Malek as-Shaar says Hezbollah is fight in Syria. Meanwhile, Sheikh Salem ar Rafii responsible for the emergence of Sheikh announces a general mobilization to support the Ahmad al-Assir, and that the organization is Sunni residents of al-Quseir. manipulating events in Tripoli.

25 30 » Israel announces that it shot down a drone » A dispute in Bekaata (Chouf) between off the coast of Haifa. A spokesperson states the two Druze members of opposing political device was launched from Lebanon and that affiliations assumes dramatic proportions Hezbollah is to blame. before being categorized as a “random act of violence.” » The minister of interior approves the civil marriage contract of 10/01/2012 after its April approval by the top advisory body in the Ministry 1 of Justice. » Salafi Sheikh Salem ar-Rafii is targeted with a silenced pistol while leaving his 28 mosque in Tripoli. He escapes unhurt. » Clashes occur in al-Baddawi Palestinian refugee camp (north) due to an LAF/ISF attempt 6 to halt unregulated construction. Three people » MP Tammam Salam is coopted to form are killed (one of whom was a policeman) a government after winning 124 votes and 14 are injured. The construction boom in parliamentary consultations held by in Baddawi stems from multiple factors, such President Michel Suleiman. as the influx of refugees from Syria and the strong demand for apartments associated 9 with the persistent housing problem due to the » In a major hacking incident, the names of destruction of the Nahr al-Bared camp in 2007.

144 145 » UNHCR states that the number of Syrian 24 refugees has reached 440,000. » The LAF reinforces its presence in Tripoli, and the clashes begin to subside. May 1 25 » Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir appears in al-Quseir » Hezbollah Secretary-General Sayyed Hassan along with other rebels. Nasrallah confirms during the 13th anniversary of “Liberation Day” that Hezbollah is fighting in 6 Syria to prevent “Takfiri” from entering Lebanon. » Several people are injured in Taanayel due to clashes with the LAF. They were trying to 26 prevent fuel trucks from entering Syria. » Two explosive projectiles hit Beirut's southern suburbs. 9 » Hezbollah Secretary-General Sayyed 27 Nasrallah says Syria will provide his » Three projectiles launched by opposition organization with "game-changing" weapons. elements from Syria strike Hermel and kill a 17- year-old girl. » Three Lebanese nationals are said to have been killed in al-Quseir while fighting 28 alongside the Syrian opposition. » Three LAF soldiers are killed at their checkpoint in Wadi Humayed in the Orsal 12 countryside. » The UAE warns its citizens against traveling » More projectiles strike Hermel. to Lebanon.

30 19 » A casual dispute between youths from the » Clashes in Tripoli between Sunni Bab at- Shia Amal Movement and Palestinian youths Tabbeneh and Alawi Jabal Mohsen kill two escalates after the Palestinians display pro-Al- people and injure 20. Qaeda slogans. » Clashes break out in the Ain al-Helwe Palestinian refugee camp in Saida between 31 rival Islamist factions. » A parliament session that lasts just 10 minutes approves extension of the parliament’s » Sunni MP Khaled ad-Daher states in a mandate until November 20, 2014. speech that Iranians and Hezbollah members have infiltrated the ranks of the LAF. June 2 20 » Heavy clashes erupt between Hezbollah » Clashes resume in Tripoli. Two LAF soldiers fighters and Syrian rebels at the Lebanese- are killed and others are injured. Syrian border near Baalbek.

21 » Renewed clashes in Tripoli injure 14. » Clashes continue in Tripoli, with casualties rising to seven dead and more than 50 3 injured. » New sniping attacks in Tripoli kill six people and injure 40 (some of whom are LAF soldiers). » Three people are killed in Wadi Khaled by a » Pro-Hezbollah, Saida-based Sheikh Maher projectile launched from the Syrian side of the Hammoud survives an assassination attempt. border.

4 23 » A car belonging to pro-Hezbollah Sheikh » Clashes continue in Tripoli, with casualties Ibrahim Breidi (Qebb Elias, Bekaa) is set on fire. rising to 21 dead and 200 injured.

» In an address to the media, Major General 5 Ashraf Rifi calls Sunni fighters in Tripoli “the » After months of fighting, Hezbollah fighters protectors of the city” and states, “we are claim the strategic village of al-Quseir. Located proud of them.” southwest of Homs and 15 kilometers from

144 145 the Lebanese border, al-Quseir is important of Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir and the Hezbollah- because it straddles the Damascus-Homs affiliated “Resistance brigades.” The clashes highway. began after a car accident. » The LAF announces its implementation of a 20 new security plan in Tripoli. » Sunni protesters block several roads in Beirut » Salafi, Tripoli-based Sheikh Daee al-Islam as- and the Bekaa in support of what they call the Shahhal urges Sunnis to take up arms to confront “Siege of Orsal.” Hezbollah and the “Safavid Iranian” project. 21 6 » A projectile launched overnight from a town » LAF units clash with armed groups in Tripoli. northeast of the Lebanese capital hit a high tension electricity cable in Aley, southeast of 9 Beirut. The blast knocked out the cable causing » A Shia anti-Hezbollah group, The Lebanese several power outages. The army located Option, stages a sit-in outside the Iranian two launchers in the Mount Lebanon town of Embassy in Beirut to protest Iranian/Hezbollah Ballouneh in Kesrouan. involvement in Syria. The protesters are met Reports differ as to the attack’s target, with by Hezbollah supporters wielding sticks, and a Beirut’s southern suburbs, Baabda Palace and demonstrator is killed. the Ministry of Defense all being mentioned. » An “Islamic concert” is held in Saida and a rally takes place in Tripoli to condemn 23 Hezbollah’s involvement in Syria. » Heavy clashes occur between the LAF and supporters of Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir. 10 » Roadblocks are set up in various parts of » A bomb explodes on the Beirut-Damascus Lebanon in solidarity with Assir. highway near the border town of Masnaa. The target may have been a vehicle transporting » In Jlala (the Bekaa), an explosive device is Hezbollah members to Syria. discovered near the headquarters of the pro- Syrian regime Arab Baath Socialist party. The LAF 11 dismantled the device. » Nine projectiles hit in and around Hermel. » UNCHR announces that the number of registered Syrian refugees has now reached 12 553,000 and that another 80,000 are waiting to » A Syrian army helicopter attacks Orsal's be registered. municipal building. In a rare response, Lebanese President Michel Suleiman condemns the attack. 24 » The clashes in Abra end when the LAF takes 14 control of Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir’s headquarters. » In a speech to mark Hezbollah's Wounded Al-Assir and some of his assistants escape. Day, Hezbollah head Hassan Nasrallah states that Hezbollah’s engagement in Syria is a » A meeting is held between the incumbent “strategic decision,” and that his organization prime minister and former Lebanese prime entered Syria after other Lebanese parties did ministers in the Grand Serail. They issue a so. statement affirming their support for the LAF and denying that it is menacing the Sunni » In his Friday speech, Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir community. calls for the arming of poor Sunnis. » In a televised interview, former Prime Minister 16 Saad Hariri affirms his support for the LAF and » Four members of the Shia Jaafar and Amhaz urges that every non-State organization in clans who were smuggling fuel between Syria Lebanon be disarmed. He also calls for the and Lebanon are found dead in the Orsal prompt extension of LAF head General Jean countryside. The news spreads tension in the Kahwaji’s mandate as LAF commander. region. 25 18 » The Future Movement bloc holds an » Clashes erupt in Abra between supporters exceptional meeting at the residence of

146 147 MP Bahiyya Hariri in Majdaloun (Saida). The car detonates at the entrance to Hermel. When statement issued after the meeting condemns an LAF patrol arrives, another bomb detonates, any attack against the LAF, but urges the LAF injuring a soldier and an officer. A third device is to take over all non-State security headquarters discovered and dismantled. and apartments. The army was also called on to limit elements of the pro-Hezbollah 9 “Resistance Brigades” in Saida. » A booby-trapped car loaded with 35 kg of explosives detonates in a parking lot in the Bir 27 al-Abed area of Beirut's southern suburbs. Fifty- » In Abra, Hezbollah gives the LAF control over three people are injured. the apartment used by its members (which » A military investigation judge issues his prompted Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir’s complaints). verdict in the case of Captain Pierre Bashaalani » The LAF denies that Hezbollah participated in and Sergeant Ibrahim Zahraman, who were the battle of Abra. ambushed and killed in Orsal on February 1. He requests the death penalty for 37 people, 28 including Ali Houjeiry, the Orsal municipality » Two explosive devices are detonated on the head. Zahleh-Saadnayel highway (Bekaa). Apparently, a Hezbollah convoy had been targeted. 10 » A Syrian rebel group, “Brigade 313 Special » In Tripoli and Beirut’s Tarik el Jdeedeh, Missions,” claims responsibility for the Bir al- demonstrations are held by Islamist groups in Abed blast on 10 July. support of Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir. » The bodies of two Jaafar clan members are 29 discovered after they disappeared two months » The Sunni “Association of Muslim Clerics” calls earlier in al-Quseir (Syria). for civil disobedience in Sunni areas if demands to stop the “persecution of Sunni Muslims” and 14 to release the detainees in Roumieh are not » UNHCR states that the number of Syrian met. refugees registered in Lebanon has now reached 604,000. » Druze leader Walid Jumblatt expresses concern over what he calls the decline of 16 moderate Islam. » An explosive device detonates near July Majdal Anjar on the road to al-Masnaa border checkpoint between Lebanon and Syria, injuring 1 two people. Reports indicate that it targeted a » Tension in Tripoli following the LAF's arrest of Hezbollah convoy. a pro-Syrian revolution militant leads to roads being blocked. » Members of a family in Baysour (Chouf) attack their in-laws. Sunni Rabih al-Ahmad from » The Future Movement parliamentary bloc Akkar married Druze Roudaina M. from Baysour holds a meeting after which the statement is on July 2013 without the agreement of her made that they are still waiting for answers from family. Roudaina's brothers lured al-Ahmad to the LAF regarding what happened in Abra. their village under the pretext of reconciliation, and after beating him severely, they chopped 4 off his penis. » A video featuring Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir shows him calling on supporters to stage a sit-in » The Union Coordinating Body launches a on Friday (5 July). He also accuses Hezbollah of petition to demand parliamentary approval of a supporting the LAF during the June clashes in new ranks and salaries scale. Abra. 17 5 » Pro-Assad regime journalist Mohammad Darar » Supporters of Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir organize Jammo is assassinated. He was killed in his home a march in Saida. in Sarafand (south).

7 18 » An explosive device that targeted a civilian » Security authorities reveal that Jammo's

146 147 assassination was driven by personal reasons. the demobilization of LAF Commander The instigator of the crime is his Lebanese wife. General Kahwaji. » During a ceremony commemorating the 19 68th anniversary of the LAF, President Michel » Hezbollah front man Sayyed Nasrallah affirms Suleiman emphasizes the difficulty involved in that his organization's willingness for dialogue ensuring the coexistence of “legal and illegal is unconditional. He also affirms Hezbollah's military authorities” (he means Hezbollah arms) support for the LAF, since without it there would and criticizes Hezbollah’s involvement in Syria. be no State and no authority.” In a clear response to the president’s speech, three projectiles are launched later that day 20 from the Aramoun hills south of Beirut, and all » A woman in Beirut’s southern suburbs kills her three strike near the presidential palace in husband with the help of her children and a Baabda. Syrian accomplice. They cut up the body and discard it in a dump. 4 » A deadly blast in Sunni Darayya village 22 (Chouf) reveals a militant Islamist cell preparing » Speaker Nabih Berri urges former Prime Minister Saad Hariri to return to Lebanon and run explosive devices. for prime minister. » A wave of tit-for-tat kidnappings occurs » The European Union adds what it calls in northern Bekaa between residents of Shia “Hezbollah’s Military Wing” to its list of terrorist Makneh and Sunni Orsal. organizations. » Residents of al-Arida assault the General » Joint parliamentary committees approve Security border post after shots from Syria kill a the domestic violence bill in preparation for its defected Syrian soldier. submission to a plenary vote. 5 23 » A tape is broadcast in which Sheikh Ahmad » In Anjar, LAF intelligence arrests a Syrian al-Assir calls on his supporters to congregate citizen accused of detonating the explosive and stage a sit-in to demand the release of device on July 16. The blast supposedly targeted detainees from the June Abra clashes. He also a Hezbollah convoy. blames the Future Movement for his situation and addresses Hariri directly, saying “Enough, 24 liar.” » Hezbollah boss Sayyed Nasrallah states that the EU’s decision to list Hezbollah’s military wing 6 as a terrorist organization is worthless. » Armed demonstrations occur in Tripoli to protest the sentencing of Sheikh Tarek Merhi to 25 15 years in prison. Merhi had been associated » EU Ambassador to Lebanon Angelina with blasts that targeted the LAF, particularly Eichhorst visits Hezbollah’s Foreign Affairs one dating back to 2008. headquarters and meets the party's foreign » A loud explosion was heard near the affairs officer. headquarters of the Palestinian Popular » The Bulgarian Ministry of Interior identifies Front's general command in Naameh south of two suspects in the July 2012 Burgas blast by Beirut. Heavy gunfire was also heard after the publishing their photos. Both are Hezbollah explosion. No further information was available. members. 9 26 » At dawn, an armed group on the airport » MP Bahiyya Hariri, the aunt of Saad Hariri, visits road stops a bus carrying the crew of a LAF Commander General Jean Kahwaji for the Turkish Airlines flight. They kidnap the pilot first time since the June Abra clashes. She praises and copilot to force the release of Lebanese the LAF's performance. Shiite pilgrims kidnapped near the Turkish- Syrian border in May 2012. August 1 11 » Minister of Defense Fayez Ghoson delays » While a convoy was returning from Ras

148 149 Baalbek after a kidnap swap between the 22 Shia Mokdad clan and Orsal notables, it » Four projectiles are launched toward Israel was fired on as it reached Shia Labwe. An from an area near Tyr. individual from the convoy was killed and the » A masked gunman shoots and kills three head of the Orsal municipality Ali Houjeiri was people in Tripoli, one of whom is a pro- slightly injured. Hezbollah figure.

14 » The LAF announces that it has dismantled an » During an interview with al-Mayadeen explosive device in Maarakeh (near Tyre). TV, Hezbollah Secretary-General Sayyed Nasrallah reveals that Hezbollah is responsible 23 for detonating an explosive device in » Car bombs explode outside the Taqwa Labbouneh the week before. The device Mosque and the Salam Mosque in the northern targeted IDF soldiers who had crossed the city of Tripoli. Forty-five people are killed and border. over 500 are wounded. » MP Mohammad Raad, head of Hezbollah's » Security forces in Saida prevent a sit-in by parliamentary bloc, states that the 2012 supporters of Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir. “Baabda Declaration” was stillborn, and that nothing is left of it other than ink and 24 paper. The declaration called for Lebanon to » The Amal Movement announces that it disassociate itself from regional development. has postponed the planned August 31 rally in Nabatiyeh to mark the 35th anniversary of the 15 disappearance of Imam Moussa as-Sadr. » A car bomb exploded in the Ruweiss quarter of Beirut's southern suburb during 27 the evening rush hour killing 30 people and » Free Patriotic Movement leader Michel wounding more than 300. A group calling Aoun states that each of the Lebanese security itself the “Regiment of Aisha, Mother of the services is working alone without coordinating Faithful” posted a video on YouTube claiming with the other services. responsibility. 30 16 » A Military Court prosecutor charges several » Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan people, including a pro-Hezbollah Sunni sheikh, Nasrallah states in a speech that Hezbollah with the twin Tripoli bombings of 23 August. will confront the “Takfiri,” whom he says are targeting not just Beirut’s southern suburbs, 31 but all of Lebanon. He also states that in order » The Syrian navy arrests four Lebanese to defeat them, he is willing to travel to Syria fishermen off the coast of al-Arida, and then personally to fight for Hezbollah. releases them.

19 September » In an audio recording, Sheikh Ahmad al- 4 Assir attacks Hezbollah and Nasrallah, whom » The minister of interior visits Saida and he accuses of waging war against Sunnis arranges a reconciliation meeting between under the pretext of fighting the “Takfiri.”He the LAF's regional intelligence head and also deems the August 17 Rouweiss blast to regional head of the ISF. A dispute begun by be a consequence of Hezbollah’s crimes in the ISF had prevented a visitor from meeting Syria. with the LAF intelligence official.

21 8 » In a speech given at an honorary » At a Hezbollah checkpoint at the ceremony for LAF officers, LAF Commander entrance of the Burj al-Barajneh Palestinian General Kahwaji states that the LAF will fight refugee camp, an armed confrontation against terrorism and that he is not with one between Hezbollah and a wedding convoy sect against another. kills a Palestinian and injures a number of Palestinians and Hezbollah members. » Nabih Berri expresses concern that Lebanon is becoming the new Iraq. » An explosive device in Tripoli targets the

148 149 car of a pro-Hezbollah Sunni Sheikh. Of note, October that sheikh is close to the one involved in the 1 twin bombing of the mosques. » Hezbollah hands over its checkpoints at the entrances to Nabatiyeh (south) to the LAF and 15 ISF. » Tensions ratchet up in the Christian town of Zahle (Bekaa) as Hezbollah elements attempt 3 to extend their wired communication network » A new security plan for Tripoli is announced. across some parts of the town. 6 17 » The Central Committee of the Fatah » Armed clashes occur in Ain al-Helwe Movement in Ramallah, chaired by Palestinian refugee camp between rival Islamist factions. President Mahmoud Abbass, expels Mahmoud Issa (also known as “al-Lino”) from the » A sit-in by residents of the Christian village of movement. Al-Lino is known for his personal Lebaa (east of Saida) is staged to protest the ambitions and is very active in southern use of the village to shelter Syrian refugees. Lebanon's Palestinian camps. 20 8 » The minister of interior announces » In an effort to ease Sunni-Shia tensions, preparations to send 2,000 policemen to Hezbollah announces the dissolution of its Beirut’s southern suburbs. Saida branch of the “Resistance Brigades.” » Supporters of Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir organize a sit-in in downtown Beirut outside the 9 Mohammad al-Amin mosque. » Mufti of Tripoli Sheikh Malek as-Shaar returns to Lebanon after spending 10 months in 23 France because of death threats against him. » The security plan for Beirut’s southern suburbs He states that he consented to return only is announced, and the LAF, GS and ISF set up after security assurances were given. checkpoints. 10 24 » The Special Tribunal for Lebanon accuses a » Lebanese President Michel Suleiman delivers fifth Hezbollah member, Hussein Habib Merhi, a speech to the UN General Assembly in New of involvement in the assassination of former York. He affirms Lebanon’s neutrality in the Syrian Prime Minister Rafic Hariri. conflict and states that the country cannot afford more Syrian refugees, since they now 11 comprise a quarter of Lebanon's population. » Islamist militant Omar al-Atrash is killed along with some companions in an ambush 27 in the Orsal countryside. In addition to » More than 27 Lebanese drown while illegally unspecified terrorist acts, al-Atrash was attempting to enter Australia from Indonesia. accused of being involved with the booby- They were from villages in Akkar. trapped car in Beirut’s southern suburbs on 10 July and with launching projectiles toward that » The trials of the Islamists in the Nahr al-Bared area. case begins in a courtroom created inside Roumieh Prison (to accelerate the process). » A member of the Diab family is arrested in Jabal Mohsen by the intelligence services » In a press conference, pro-FPM Minister after emerging as a suspect in the twin Tripoli Jubran Bassil requests that Lebanon stop bombings of August 23. Tension spikes after receiving Syrian refugees and turn away the arrest and gunfire is exchanged between those it is hosting. He considers their presence the residents of Jabal Mohsen and Bab at- dangerous. Tabbeneh. 28 14 » A vocal dispute between a Sunni juice seller » A car bomb is dismantled in Dahiyeh. and Hezbollah operatives in Baalbek devolves into armed clashes that kill four and injure eight. » The ISF intelligence services announce The incident arouses Shia-Sunni tension. the names of seven Jabal Mohsen residents

150 151 accused of participating in the twin Tripoli 28 bombings of August 23. » Former minister and Future Movement senior Hassan Mneimneh states that LAF-run » The LAF claims to have discovered and checkpoints in Dahiyeh are a formality, and defused a booby-trapped car loaded with that security there is being controlled by some 50 kg of explosives in Beirut’s southern Hezbollah. suburbs. » An LAF unit deploys to Bab at Tabbeneh 17 (Tripoli) and comes under sniper fire. » It is announced that Syrian military intelligence officer Brigadier General Jamee 29 Jamee has been killed in Deir ez-Zour. Jamee » Calm returns to Tripoli after the LAF’s was the Syrian intelligence officer in Beirut deployment. during the years of Syrian presence, and his name had been mentioned in investigations 30 into Rafic Hariri's assassination. » The intelligence services call for an investigation into former MP Ali Eid (father of 19 Rifaat), based on the confession of his driver » The Lebanese Shia kidnapped in northern Ahmad Mohammad Ali. Syria and the Turkish pilots are released. 31 21 » A large device explodes in Jlala village » Five Syrian projectiles hit Hermel. (the Bekaa) near an LAF intelligence center. » Clashes in Tripoli injure six people. The clashes » Former MP Ali Eid refuses to be began when some TV stations broadcast an interrogated. The head of the Alawi Islamic interview with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Council Sheikh Assad Assi states that the request to question Eid is a humiliation for 22 the Alawite sect. » Clashes resume between Jabal Mohsen and Bab at Tabbeneh (Tripoli). November 1 23 » Two masked gunmen shoot and kill a » Clashes continue in Tripoli. Lebanese soldier in Tripoli and then escape.

25 2 » Clashes persist in Tripoli. » In Bab at Tabbeneh, three militants stop a » ISF General Director Brigadier General Ashraf bus carrying Alawi garbage collectors from Rifi holds a press conference at his residence Jabal Mohsen. They take the workers to an in Tripoli. He blames the Syrian regime and alley and shoot them in the legs. Hezbollah for the conflict in the city and states that he considers those fighting in behalf of Bab 5 at Tabbeneh to be the sons of Tripoli for their » Ali Eid, the leader of Lebanon's Alawi defense of that area. community, is accused of involvement in the bombing of two Sunni mosques in Tripoli. 26 » Clashes continue in Tripoli. 6 » MP Mohammad Raad, the head of » A conference focused on the challenges Hezbollah’s parliamentary bloc, issues a facing Christians in the Orient is held under warning to March 14 and others whom the patronage of Lebanese President Michel he states are “conspiring against the Suleiman. The concluding statement stresses resistance.” He also describes Ashraf Rifi as the need to halt Christian emigration and a militia leader who is covering up weapons advance dialogue between Muslims and smuggling to militias in Tripoli and Syria. Christians. » LAF intelligence apprehends Ahmad 7 Mohammad Ali, a driver for Alawi leader Rifaat » A senior military investigative judge issues Eid. Ali is a suspect in the twin Tripoli bombings a subpoena against former MP Ali Eid over of August 23. the Tripoli bombings of August 23.

150 151 10 25 » A group called the “Blood Guardians,” » Verbal and physical altercations break composed of the parents of those killed out in Université SaintJoseph between and injured in the Tripoli bombings of August students supporting March 8 and others 23, meets in Tripoli and asks that justice be in favor of March 14. The disputes were done. The group threatens to take unilateral triggered by graffiti on a wall facing the action if something is not accomplished. university. The image was a heart that included the name of Habib Shartouni, who 12 assassinated Maronite President-elect Bashir » Two people on a motorcycle kill Sheikh Gemayel in 1982. Saadeddin Ghiyyeh in Tripoli. Ghiyyeh was a member of a Hezbollah-affiliated group. 27 » Tension is evident on the St. Joseph 13 campus, and the university administration » Hezbollah Secretary-General Nasrallah decides to halt lectures for another day. appears in person (as opposed to a televised appearance) to mark Ashoura. 28 He accuses Saudi Arabia of impeding the » A false bomb threat against the Saudi formation of a new government in Lebanon. Embassy in Beirut arouses fear and panic at a nearby school. The school’s administrators 17 had received a phone call warning them » Clashes occur between the LAF and of an explosive device hidden near the militants in Bab at Tabbeneh. embassy, but nothing is found.

18 29 » A new security plan is launched in » Islamist groups block Masnaah Road Tripoli, followed shortly thereafter by the (which leads to the Lebanese-Syrian border) deployment of 500 ISF soldiers to Bab at to conduct Friday prayers and protest the Tabbeneh and Jabal Mohsen. arrest of Salafis by the LAF. » In Tripoli, residents of Jabal Mohsen 19 demonstrate their support for the Arab » One suicide bomber on a motorcycle Democratic Party and their displeasure with and another in a car set off explosions the assaults on their community. in Beirut’s southern suburb of Bir Hassan targeting the area outside the Iranian 30 Embassy. The explosion kills some 25 people » Another round of violence begins in including the Iranian Cultural attaché to Tripoli. Lebanon; 150 others are wounded. The Abdullah Azzam Brigades, a Lebanon-based » Renewed clashes take place between Al-Qaeda affiliate, claims responsibility. Jabal Mohsen and Bab at Tabbeneh (Tripoli). 22 » At dawn, the LAF claims to have December intercepted a car loaded with 400 kg of 1 explosives in Makneh near Baalbek. » Clashes continue in Tripoli, and the casualties include 10 people killed and over 23 60 injured. » A car bomb is discovered near Baalbek. » The LAF is given a new mandate to pacify Tripoli. 24 » Security forces identify the two bombers » An explosion in the Ain al-Helwe involved in the November 19 attacks as Palestinian refugee camp kills one and Mouin Abu Dahr, a Sidon resident from a injures four. mixed Shia-Sunni family, and Adnan Mousa Mohammad, a Palestinian from Bisarieh 2 (outside Sidon). Both were born in 1992 and » Clashes continue in Tripoli, with casualties were said to be supporters of Sheikh Ahmad rising to 16 killed and 110 injured, among al-Assir. them LAF soldiers.

152 153 3 » UNHCR states that the number of registered » In a televised interview, Hezbollah leader Syrian refugees is now at 842,000 (in addition Hassan Nasrallah declares that the Abdullah to the 52,000 Palestinians in the country who Azzam Brigades are responsible for the fled from Syria). Since Lebanon was already November 19 Iranian Embassy bombings. host to 350,000 Palestinian refugees, refugees He also claims that the General Directorate now comprise 30% of the overall population. of the ISF has been paying and offering logistical aid to fighters in Tripoli for several 17 years. » An explosion rocks a Hezbollah camp in the Bekaa, and an attack against a Hezbollah » Tension persists in the Ain al-Helwe facility in the Bekaa causes numerous Palestinian refugee camp after a device causalities explodes targeting Fatah senior Mahmoud Issa (aka “al-Lino”) while he attends the » A booby-trapped car loaded with around funeral of another Fatah member killed the 60 kg of explosives detonates on the outskirts day before. of the village of Laboueh in Baalbek, targeting a Hezbollah site. 4 » Projectiles fired from Syria strike Hermel, » Hezbollah senior officer Hassan Haolo al- with some hitting an LAF barracks and injuring Lakkis is assassinated in the parking lot at his several soldiers. house east of Dahiyeh. He was shot with a silenced pistol, which prompts Hezbollah to 19 accuse Israel. In the meantime, the “Ansar » An-Nusra Front in Syria leader Abu al-Omma Brigade” and “Free Sunnis in Mohammad al-Joulani appears in a televised Baalbek Brigade” both claim responsibility. interview with Al-Jazeera, which is greeted » The LAF reinforces its presence in Tripoli. with celebratory gunfire in Tripoli. » A video appears to show an-Nusra Front 5 affiliate “Marwan Hadid Brigades” and an- » A number of citizens, including armed Nusra Front itself launching projectiles at Salafi affiliates, gather in front of the LAF Hermel on December 17. The groups stated barracks in al-Qobba (Tripoli) to protest that they were targeting Hezbollah. LAF security procedures in the city. This is followed by gun battles between agitators 22 and the LAF, which kill one soldier and injure » A random altercation between two families another. evolves into Sunni-Shia fighting in the west Bekaa village of Sawire. Five people are killed. 6 » Clashes occur in Tripoli between Sunni 27 groups and the LAF. » A remotely detonated car bomb exploded at around 9:40 a.m. in the heart of downtown 15 Beirut killing former Lebanese minister » At 9:15 p.m., a suicide attack hits an LAF Mohamad Chatah, who was en route to a checkpoint at the entrance to Saida. Less meeting with the March 14 Alliance. Five than an hour later, a second suicide attack others were also killed and 70 more were strikes an LAF checkpoint in Majdalyoun, severely wounded in the blast. also near Saida. The attacks kill one soldier and injure three, and four militants are 29 killed in the ensuing confrontation (one » President Michel Suleiman announces that Palestinian, two Lebanese and one of Saudi Arabia has offered the LAF $3 billion unknown origin). One of those killed was worth of equipment from France. close to Iranian Embassy bomber Moeen Projectiles fired from south Lebanon strike Abu Dahr. northern Israel, and Israel responds by shelling » An LAF soldier from Sunni Akkar fires on an the supposed source of fire. Israeli patrol in an-Nakoura near the border killing an Israeli soldier. While no durable link 30 was established between these incidents, » For the first time ever, the LAF announces they certainly raise numerous questions. that it has fired on Syrian aircraft over Orsal.

152 153 2014 January statement about its leader Majed al-Majed 1 including the details of his death. It also states » LAF intelligence arrests Saudi national Majed that he supervised the trial run of the Iranian al-Majed accused of masterminding the Embassy bombing, and that the brigades will Qaeda-affiliated Abdullah Azzam Brigades. resume activities against Iran and Hezbollah to defend the Sunni people. 2 » Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir tweets an apology for » In Haret Hreik, the heart of Beirut’s southern not “communicating” more often due to the suburbs (Dahiyeh), a suicide bomber detonates security measures being focused against him. some 20 kg of explosives that had been placed in a Jeep Grand Cherokee. Five people are 15 killed and 77 injured. » LAF intelligence arrests Abdullah Azzam Brigades leader Jamal ad-Daftardar in Kamed 3 al-Laouz (the Bekaa). It also reports that it has » The Haret Hreik suicide bomber is identified as killed another individual named Mazen Abu Lebanese citizen Qutaiba as-Satem (aged 20) Abbass, who is supposedly affiliated with Fatah from Hnaider (Akkar). al Islam. » A Tripoli library that belongs to Orthodox Father Ibrahim as-Srouj is set on fire. As-Srouj had 16 been threatened because of an article critical » Official opening of the Special Tribunal for of Islam, which was falsely attributed to him. Lebanon. » The LAF officially announces the arrest of » In a Hermel (Bekaa) square, a suicide bomber Majed al-Majed, who was identified through detonates a Kia car loaded with approximately DNA testing. 35 kg of explosives killing four people and injuring 43. An-Nusra Front claims responsibility 4 and states that Hezbollah had been targeted. » The LAF announces the death of al-Majed » The Jamaa Islamiyya (Lebanese offshoot of due to health complications. the Muslim Brotherhood) and the Association » Clashes in Tripoli between Alawi Jabal of Muslim Clerics denounce the LAF's killing of Mohsen and Sunni Bab At Tabbaneh lead to Mazen Abu Abbass two days earlier in Kamed one death and seven people injured. al-Laouz. They hold a sit-in outside an official building near the village where the incident 6 occurred. » Two LAF soldiers are injured when a grenade is thrown at an LAF site in Tripoli. 17 » Speaking to Reuters, former Prime Minister 8 Saad Hariri affirms his readiness to participate in » Civil society organizations stage a sit-in near a coalition government with Hezbollah. the National Museum in Beirut to protest sedition » A bombing in Orsal kills nine people, five of and reject violence. whom are children from a single family. Thirteen others are injured. Orsal municipality head Ali 10 Houjeiry accuses Hezbollah of bombing the » In Tripoli, armed elements launch a missile at town. Hezbollah refutes the accusations, and an LAF site, which injures three soldiers. the LAF states that the attack was launched from the Syrian side of the border. 12 » Preliminary investigations identify the Hermel » Leaflets are distributed and protests take suicide bomber of January 16 as Hussein place in Orsal against the presence of Syrians in Ghandour, originally from Saida. He is suspected the town, which has increased competition for of having been a follower of Ahmad al-Assir. employment. » Clashes resume in Tripoli between Bab at 13 Tabbeneh and Jabal Mohsen. One person is » The Abdullah Azzam Brigades issues a killed and others are injured.

154 155 18 after being shot in the head with a hunting » More injuries are caused by the violence in weapon. Tripoli. 24 » The state of alert continues between » An-Nusra Front in Lebanon releases a the LAF and IDF in the Odaysse border statement threatening Hezbollah, asking Sunnis region following Israel's emplacement of an for their support and advising them to avoid electronic device in a border area. Hezbollah areas. » The LAF announces that the origin of the shelling that has reached Orsal, Ras Baalbek 25 and Fakehe is east of Orsal in an area that » A recording by an individual in Tripoli calling straddles the Lebanese-Syrian border. himself Abu Sayyaf al-Ansari is released. In it, » The LAF corrects an earlier announcement he pledges his allegiance to the Islamic State and states that the identity of the Hermel in Iraq and as-Sham, and calls on Sunnis to suicide bomber is not Hussein Ghandour. lend their support. Tripoli officials condemn the tape. 19 » Clashes resume in Tripoli. 26 » A group of Sunni clerics hold a sit-in outside 20 the Ministry of Defense to protest the arrest of » More clashes in Tripoli. Sheikh Omar al-Atrash (January 22). Speeches at the event condemn the LAF and accuse it 21 of hostility toward the Sunni sect. » A suicide bomber detonates a Kia car in Haret Hreik, just 60 meters from the blast that 28 occurred on January 2. An-Nusra Front claims » A luncheon is held in Tripoli to responsibility and states that the attack was commemorate Ahmad Diab, who several days in response to Hezbollah shelling in Orsal and earlier carried out a suicide operation against Syria. An-Nusra also urged Sunnis to prepare the pro-Assad army in Syria (January 25). themselves. 29 » A meeting in Orsal condemns the blast, » Lebanese citizen Youssef Medhat as-Saghir, and in particular, that it was revenge for the from Menieh (north Lebanon) is killed fighting bombing of Orsal. the pro-Assad army in Syria. » Clashes in Tripoli continue. 30 22 » A meeting is held in Tripoli at the residence » An Islamist group in Tripoli broadcasts a of Sunni MP Khaled ad-Daher. Attended by tape that excoriates former Prime Minister another Sunni MP and a number of Sunni and Future Movement head Saad Hariri clerics from the north and the Bekaa, it for seeking a coalition government with concludes with a statement attacking the LAF Hezbollah and asking the LAF to strike Tripoli and accusing it of being a tool of Hezbollah. with an "iron fist." The meeting was held in response to the arrest » Security forces arrest rapper Hussein of Sheikh Omar al-Atrash. Sharafeddin in Beirut’s southern suburbs. He was suspected of being a suicide bomber 31 because of his long, bushy beard and unique » Syrian regime forces shell Akkari villages attire. killing a Syrian and injuring four other people.

» The LAF intelligence services trap and kill February Palestinian Ibrahim Abdul Moati Abu Moailek 1 in the Bekaa. Moailek was affiliated with the » A suicide bomber driving a Jeep Grand Abdullah Azzam Brigades. Cherokee hits a gas station in Hermel killing » Calm returns to Tripoli. four people and injuring 27. An-Nusra Front claims responsibility. 23 » Sami Marroush, a former internal affairs 3 officer in the Progressive Socialist Party is killed » A suicide bomber with an explosive belt

154 155 blows himself up in a minivan in the Choueifat 22 area (south of Beirut). Although the vehicle » A suicide bomber detonates a Jeep Grand was not carrying passengers, the driver and Cherokee rigged with an estimated 125 kg a pedestrian are injured. of explosives at an LAF checkpoint at the entrance to Hermel. Three people are killed 10 (including an officer) and 17 are injured. An- » Roadblocks and protests occur in Tripoli Nusra Front claims responsibility. because of a statement misheard by a Shia cleric. During a sit-in staged by the 24 Shia Msheik clan in Choueifat to protest » Reports indicate that IDF warplanes the proposed release of Sheikh Omar al- attacked a Hezbollah site along the Syrian- Atrash, a cleric attending the meeting Lebanese border in the Nabi Chit area of the cursed “Omar” without specifying whether Bekaa. No further details about the attack are he meant al-Atrash or the Caliphe Omar bin available. al-Khattab…. » An-Nusra Front tweets a message to 12 Lebanese Sunnis urging them to stay away » At an LAF checkpoint in Labweh, the from Hezbollah areas and accusing Hezbollah LAF stopped a car from Yabrood that was of putting the LAF on the front lines to enable making its way to Beirut. The three female Hezbollah to battle Syrian Sunnis. passengers from Orsal intended to deliver » An investigative judge of the Military Court the booby-trapped car to would-be suicide requests the death sentence for Alawi leader bombers. Ali Eid for the role he played in the twin » The LAF intelligence services arrest bombings that targeted Sunni mosques in Palestinian Naiim Abbass, who is accused of Tripoli in August 2013. cooperating with terrorist groups. 25 13 » A car belonging to Youssof Mohammad » Fear of booby-trapped cars spreads in Hamadeh is burned in Bissarieh (south). The Beirut, Saida and the Bekaa as numerous son of the car's owner is suspected of having vehicles are now being checked. been one of the suicide bombers who blew themselves up outside the Iranian Cultural 15 Center. It was discovered later that the person » A new Lebanese government headed by in question is not one of the two bombers. Prime Minister Tammam Salam is formed. » Marwan Dimashkieh is discovered murdered. Dimashkieh was a member of the 16 Jamaa Islamiyya, and rumors indicate that he » The LAF says that it intercepted and wrote an anti-Hezbollah anthem titled "Dig defused an automobile rigged with 250 kg your grave in Yabroud." of explosives in the Ham countryside (south Baalbek). It was the second such event 26 within four days (the first was near Orsal on » A Hezbollah statement confirms that the February 12). Israelis attacked one of their sites in the northern Bekaa near the Syrian borders, but 19 that it caused no casualties. Hezbollah says it » Two suicide bombers in two cars blow will respond at a suitable time and place. themselves up simultaneously in front of the Iranian Cultural Center killing eight people 28 and injuring 130. Responsibility is claimed by » In a speech, Lebanese President Michel the Abdullah Azzam Brigades. Suleiman criticizes Hezbollah’s ideological rhetoric regarding the "necessary" partnership 20 between “the Army, the People and the » Abdul Rahman Diab, a senior member of Resistance.” Hezbollah had insisted on the Alawi Arab Democratic Party in Tripoli including that motto in the ministerial and the father of one of the men accused in statement to be issued by the new cabinet. the twin bombings of the Salam and Takwa mosques in Tripoli on August 23, 2013, is » Syrian warplanes attack the outskirts of assassinated. Clashes resume as a result. Orsal killing two people and injuring seven.

156 157 » Explosions rock the Shia village of Britel, an 15 attack later claimed by ISIL (Daesh). » Ordnance is launched toward Shia Nabi Osmane and Laboue from the Orsal countryside, » A senior military investigative judge and one person is killed. Laboueh residents requests the death penalty for Ahmad al- block the road to Orsal in protest. Assir and 53 other individuals in relation to the events in Abra. » A suicide bomber detonates a booby- trapped car in Nabi Osmane village (the Bekaa) March killing four people and injuring 11. An-Nusra Front 1 claims responsibility. » President Michel Suleiman describes » Several pro-Hezbollah groups conduct Hezbollah's motto (“Army, People, marches in some areas to celebrate the victory Resistance”) as being a hollow stereotype, in Yabroud, Syria. which prompts harsh responses from Hezbollah and its affiliates. » The 20th round of clashes in Tripoli continues. » The "Nuns of Maaloula" (Qalamoun) are » Information reveals the Orsal arrival of freed thanks to Qatari intercession which was militants and civilians from Yabroud, Syria. assisted by Lebanese General Abbas Ibrahim » The Laboue-Orsal road is blocked by Laboue (director general of the General Security residents. office). » Hezbollah responds sarcastically to 16 Lebanese President Michel Suleiman’s speech » Suicide attack against a Hezbollah patrol in of February 28. Nabi Sheet (northern Bekaa).

7 18 » Michel Sakr, the son of Zahle-based » Protests demanding the reopening of the pro-Lebanese Forces businessman Ibrahim Laboueh-Orsal road. They include roadblocks in Sakr, is abducted. Although the incident is Sunni quarters of Beirut and in Sunni areas along most probably criminal in nature, it spawns the Beirut-Saida road and in Tripoli. Posters of a wave of protests, sectarian tensions and Nasrallah are burned in Tripoli. street blockades. 19 8 » The LAF enters Orsal, establishing checkpoints » Michel Sakr is released. and conducting patrols. » Following a brief period of calm, clashes 10 resume in Tripoli. » Senior Palestinian Fatah officer Jamil Zeidan is assassinated in the Ain al-Helwe 20 refugee camp. » The government of Tammam Salam wins the vote of confidence. 13 » Another killing causes tensions to flare up 21 again in Tripoli. » Clashes continue in Tripoli.

14 22 » An IDF patrol operating in the Al-Bastara » An attempt to kidnap Archbishop Semaan farm (southern Lebanon) is hit by an Atallah, the Maronite pastor of Baalbek, is explosive device. Israel responds by shelling foiled. the area. An unverified and somewhat questionable claim of responsibility for the 23 attack is made by ISIL (Daesh). » Armed clashes take place near the Camille » The 20th round of clashes in Tripoli Chamoun Beirut stadium between supporters continues. of a Sunni pro-Hezbollah group and elements of the Future Movement. » Folkloric commemoration of March 14 Day. Former Future Movement member » In a video clip, Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir rips Fouad Siniora calls for dialogue and for Bahiya Hariri and the LAF, both of which, he Hezbollah’s withdrawal from Syria. says, are controlled by Hezbollah.

156 157 25 » A pro-Hezbollah Palestinian group attacks » An IDF patrol crosses the barbed wire an anti-Hezbollah, pro-Syrian revolution outside Aytaroun in south Lebanon and uses group in the Mieh Mieh Palestinian refugee dogs to search the Lebanese side of the camp. Eight people are killed and 11 are border. injured, most of which are members of the anti-Hezbollah group. 27 » Sami al-Atrash is killed during an LAF raid 8 of his hideout outside Orsal. Al-Atrash was » An LAF patrol is attacked in Qammoua accused of killing soldiers and using booby- (Akkar). An officer is killed and a soldier is trapped cars. injured. » A soldier is killed in Tripoli as the strife 9 continues. » An attempt is made to assassinate Sheikh Orsan Suleiman in the Ain al-Helwe refugee 28 camp. Sheikh Suleiman belongs to an anti- » Armed elements in Tripoli kill ISF Warrant Salafi association. Officer Butros al-Bayeh. 10 29 » The LAF commences its plan to catch » A suicide bomber targets an LAF (Shia) criminal outlaws in the northern Bekaa checkpoint outside Orsal killing three soldiers area, and efforts soon expand to include the and injuring four others. The “Free Sunni traditional outlaw strongholds of Britel and Brigade in Baalbek” claims responsibility and Haour Taala. The raids disclose that most of announces that the bomber was Abdul Qader those criminals had left the area several days Taan. earlier.

30 » Isolated violence takes place in Tripoli » A primed explosive device is defused in between the LAF and a number of wanted Tripoli. militants. » The Military Court issues an arrest warrant 31 for Alawi leader Refaat Eid, head of the » The LAF claims that it has defused a Arab Democratic Party. He is charged with booby-trapped car packed with some 200 involvement in terrorist actions. kg of explosives outside Orsal. » The National Dialogue Table meets at 14 the presidential palace without Hezbollah » The Twitter account of the “Free Sunni participation. Brigade in Baalbek” announces that the group is responsible for launching three April rockets toward the (Shia) village of Laboueh in 1 revenge for the actions taken by Hezbollah in » The security plan for Tripoli goes into Qalamoun. The LAF confirms that the rockets effect, and the residence of Refaat Eid, came from the Syrian side of the border. leader of the Alawi Arab Democratic Party, » The Maronite Patriarchate website is is raided. hacked, and visitors to the site are welcomed with Quranic verses. 2 » The LAF and other security services 19 continue to implement the security plan for » A meeting is held in the ministry of interior Tripoli. and is attended by Hezbollah senior domestic security officer Wafic Safa. The situation in 7 Tofeil (a Lebanese Sunni enclave in Syria) is » In an interview published in as-Safir discussed, to include the evacuation of its newspaper, Hezbollah Secretary-General Lebanese citizens. Nasrallah states, “we planted the explosive device that hit the IDF patrol in Shebaa in 21 the middle of last March, in response to the » A report issued by the UN High Israeli raid which targeted Janta.” Commissioner for Refugees states that the

158 159 number of registered refugees from Syria in 20 Lebanon now totals 1,024,063. » An LAF patrol is attacked in Tripoli, and eight soldiers, including an officer, are 23 injured. » The Lebanese parliament meets to elect a new president. Although it is attended by 124 22 MPs, there were 52 blank votes. Samir Geagea, » The session to elect a new president of the the March 14 candidate, received 48 votes, republic is postponed until June 9 due to the Pierre Helou, a centrist supported by PSP Druze lack of a quorum. leader Walid Jumblatt, received 16 and Amin » The ministry of interior asks refugees from Gemayel gathered 1 vote. Interestingly, 7 votes Syria to refrain from engaging in any political were for individuals who were presumably killed activity or gatherings due to Lebanon’s official by Samir Geagea. Notably, one envelope was decision to remain “disassociated” from the submitted without a paper. Speaker Nabih Berri Syrian conflict. announces postponement of the session until May 7. 24 » A farewell party is held in the Baabda 29 Presidential Palace for President Michel » A large demonstration takes place in the Suleiman. streets of Beirut to request that the parliament examine the rank and wages scale. 27 » Riots occur in Roumieh Prison. » Mahmoud al-Hayek, the individual accused of attempting to assassinate MP/ 30 Minister Boutros Harb, is killed during fighting in » Nabih Berri postpones the session to elect Syria. a president until May 7 due to the lack of a quorum. 28 » Clashes between the LAF and armed groups » Thousands of Syrians flock to the Syrian outside Orsal injure five soldiers. Embassy in Yarzeh (east Beirut) to participate in the Syrian presidential election. This causes May severe traffic congestion and total closure 7 of the Beirut-Bekaa road. The so-called » The session to elect a new president of the spontaneity of this massive event is false. republic is postponed until May 15 due to the » MP Walid Jumblatt invites former President lack of a quorum. Suleiman to introduce amendments to the Lebanese constitution. 8 » The LAF announces that several of the leaders 30 of Tripoli's armed factions have surrendered. » The council of ministers meets in the Grand Serail for the first time since the presidency 9 becomes vacant. » Attorney Tarek Shandab sues Hezbollah, Amal Movement and the Syrian Socialist National 31 Party on behalf of 56 families of victims of the » The minister of interior decides that every May 2008 armed incidents. displaced Syrian who returns to Syria as of June 1, 2014 and attempts to reenter Lebanon 12 will lose his/her refugee status. » The PSP health minister suggests the establishment of 36 sites to house refugees from June Syria instead of the 1,600 improvised sites. 4 » Armed clashes between Islamic groups in the » U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry visits Ain al-Helwe camp injure nine people. Lebanon, where he meets Speaker Nabih Berri, Prime Minister Tammam Salam and the 15 Maronite Patriarch. He calls for the election » The session to elect a new president of the of a new president and states that Russia, Iran republic is postponed until May 22 due to the and Hezbollah should contribute to ending lack of a quorum. the war in Syria.

158 159 6 allegedly planning to assassinate a senior » In a speech at the funeral of Sheikh Mustafa security figure in the north and intended to Kassir, Hezbollah head Hassan Nasrallah denies conduct terrorist acts. that his organization is aiming for a "three thirds" power-sharing solution (one third for the 26 Christians, one third for the Sunni and one third » Information is revealed which indicates for the Shia). Such an outcome, he stated, that Lebanese national al-Monzer Khaldoun would be the opposite of the formal, current al-Hassan provided the Rawshe bomber with 50-50 presence (half for the Christians and explosive belts. half for the Muslims). He adds that the French communicated the idea to the Iranians. 28 » The Amal Movement announces the 9 cancellation of all its Ramadan Iftars due to the » The session to elect a new president of the security situation. republic is postponed until June 18 due to the lack of a quorum. 30 » Armed clashes between anti-Hezbollah 18 Palestinian elements and a pro-Hezbollah Sunni » The session to elect a new president of the group occur in a neighborhood near the Shatila republic is postponed until July 2 due to the lack Palestinian refugee camp. of a quorum. July 20 1 » At the ISF's Dahr el-Bidar checkpoint » Lebanese Al-Qaeda-linked Sheikh Sirajeddin (entrance/exit for the Bekaa), a suicide bomber Zureikat (head of the Abdullah Azzam Brigades) detonates himself in a car loaded with 35 kg of threatens Hezbollah with more attacks if it does explosives killing an ISF member and wounding not withdraw from Syria. 33 other soldiers and civilians. The Director of » In the first case related to domestic violence, General Security, General Abbass Ibrahim, a court rules in favor of Tamara Harrisi and announces that he was the target of the attack. sentences her husband to nine months in prison » The intelligence services and General and a fine of LBP20 million for having committed Security forces raid two hotels in Hamra a violent act against her. (Beirut) and arrest a number of non-Lebanese individuals. 2 » The session to elect a new president of the 23 republic is postponed until July 23 due to the » At midnight, a suicide bomber blows himself lack of a quorum. up in his booby-trapped car in Shatila (northern entrance of Dahiyeh). A member of General 5 Security prevented the car from reaching its » The Maronite League, the main secular intended target, an act that kept casualties low Maronite association, organizes a conference (20 wounded in addition to the General Security to warn against the negative effects of member). Christians selling their land.

24 7 » The Abdullah Azzam Brigades claim » Families of the Islamists detained in Roumieh responsibility for the blasts in Dahr al-Baidar and Prison stage a sit-in in Tripoli's main square and Shatila. assign responsibility for the release of their sons to the Future Movement and its MPs. 25 » A Saudi suicide bomber is killed in a Beirut 8 hotel when he detonates his explosives. The » Israel commences a substantial military blast injures a number of General Security force operation against the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip. members who were raiding the hotel to arrest » A Palestinian Joint Security Force deploys to him. the Ain al-Helwe refugee camp. Its mission is to » The LAF announces the arrest of a terrorist guarantee the camp's security by working in cell in al-Qalamoun near Tripoli. The cell was conjunction with the Lebanese authorities.

160 161 » The Future Movement parliamentary bloc 20 denounces the random arrests being made » Al-Monzer al-Hassan, a suspect wanted for by the LAF in Tripoli. It also questions the terrorist crimes, is killed during a raid on a Tripoli effectiveness and equitability of the security apartment by ISF intelligence. plan in the (Shia) Bekaa north. » Tension builds in Tripoli following the arrest of Salafi leader Houssam as-Sabbagh. 10 » A gathering held at the residence of MP » The IDF enters Shuja'iyya, a populous Mohammad Kabbara in Tripoli denounces neighborhood of Gaza City. The action results in the random arrests being carried out by heavy fighting and human loss. the security forces in Tripoli. It states that continued persecution of Sunnis will lead to 22 an explosion. » A projectile is launched from the Shebaa neighborhood toward Israel but misses its 11 intended target. » Explosives are launched at dawn from Lebanese territory toward Israel. The LAF 23 arrests those involved, who are Lebanese » LAF soldier Atef Saadeddin defects while nationals from Sunni Hibbariyeh. serving in Orsal. In a videotape that surfaces later, Saadeddin announces his decision to » Sit-ins continue in Tripoli to demand the desert the LAF in order to join an-Nusra Front, release of detainees in Roumieh Prison. because he believes the LAF is being directed by Hezbollah to persecute Sunnis in Lebanon. 12 » Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir is heard in a » The session to elect a new Lebanese recording that decries the Future Movement president is postponed for the seventh time, until as a "liberal movement" that does not August 12, due to lack of a quorum. represent Sunnis. 24 » Three projectiles are launched overnight » Two projectiles launched from Sunni Kafar toward Israel from a field outside Qleileh Chouba (south Lebanon) toward Israel fail to (south Lebanon) near Tyre. reach their targets. » Clashes between Hezbollah and an-Nusra take place in the Anti-Lebanon Mountains/al- 25 Qalamoun area. » Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah appears in person on Jerusalem Day. 14 » More projectiles are launched toward Israel 31 from the Qleileh area. » In an interview with as-Safir newspaper, Druze leader Walid Jumblatt warns of the arrival in » A Lebanese criminal court releases Abdul Lebanon of ISIL (Daesh) ideology. He announces Latif Fneish (the brother of Hezbollah Minister that Druze and Maronites are on their way to Mohammad Fneish) after a bail of LBP 5 “extinction.” million is posted. Abdul Latif was arrested for counterfeiting medications. » The “Free Sunnis in Baalbek Brigade” tweets a threat to “clean” the Bekaa of Christians if they 16 fail to leave the area. » A projectile is launched overnight from the al-Arqoub area toward Israel. It falls short of its » In Mashghara (west Bekaa), Hezbollah buries target in Lebanese Khiyam. a senior military leader killed while fighting in Mosul (Iraq). 18 » Clashes continue between an-Nusra August Front and Hezbollah in the Anti-Lebanon 1 Mountains/al-Qalamoun area. » The Army Day national commemoration (during which new officers are commissioned) is » Bulgarian authorities announce that the cancelled due to the presidential vacuum. It is Burgas suicide bomber was Mohammad al- replaced with an internal function. Husseini, a Lebanese with French nationality, who is affiliated with Hezbollah. » In Ayrouniyeh (Akkar), the LAF arrests a

160 161 woman wearing an explosive belt. Her husband 6 had already been detained on terrorism charges. » An explosive device detonates in Tripoli killing one person and injuring 10. There is » The Military Court releases (Sunni) Sheikh conflicting information about the target, with Hussein Atwi, who was responsible for launching some saying it was the LAF and others that several rockets toward Israel. it was Sheikh Malek Jadide, president of the Association of Muslim Clerics. 2 » In response to the LAF's arrest of Syrian » Residents of Shia Laboueh village block the national (and an-Nusra Front leader) Imad road to prevent Qatari aid from being sent to Ahmad Jomaa, his supporters attack ISF civilians in Orsal, which they believe is intended positions in Orsal and capture 16 ISF members. for the rebels. In response, several roads are Clashes followed between the LAF and an- blocked in Sunni areas throughout Lebanon Nusra and other Syrian rebel Islamist groups. The (Saadiyat, Saadnayel and Majdel Anjar). LAF suffers heavy losses, including a number of » Former Prime Minister Saad Hariri announces soldiers listed originally as “missing,” but who are later disclosed to have been taken prisoner. that Saudi Arabia has offered Lebanon US$1 Tension spreads to Tripoli, and LAF positions there billion in aid to help fight terror and strengthen are targeted. the LAF and ISF.

3 7 » Armed confrontations continue in Orsal, » Calm descends on Orsal, and aid shipments and LAF casualties rise to 25 wounded and arrive. The rebels withdraw to the countryside, 13 missing. LAF Commander General Jean and negotiations continue for the release of Kahwaji announces in a press conference that the soldiers taken prisoner. the attacks had been prearranged and that » An-Nusra Front announces in a statement Jomaa has confessed to having planned to that it has withdrawn from Orsal. It adds a attack military sites. Kahwaji called on politicians warning against harming Sunnis. and clerics to pay attention to what is planned for Lebanon, but he also reaffirmed the LAF's 8 readiness to confront the Takfiri. He insisted » Former Prime Minister Saad Hariri returns additionally on the need to address the Syrian unexpectedly to Beirut from Saudi Arabia refugee situation, so that their camps do not after an absence of more than three years. become hotbeds for terrorism. He visits the grave of his father and then the » Hezbollah announces that it will stand beside Grand Serail to meet Prime Minister Tammam the LAF to confront the dangers. Salam. He announces that he has returned to implement the Saudi aid plan and that “if » The Association of Muslim Clerics tries to Hezbollah starts misbehaving we should not do negotiate a truce in Orsal. the same.” » LAF Commander General Jean Kahwaji states 4 that he is convinced that the soldiers taken » Clashes between rebels and the LAF continue prisoner in Orsal are still there. It is also revealed in Orsal. that the kidnappers are seeking the release of a » A delegation from the Association of Muslim number of Islamists imprisoned in Roumieh. Clerics enters Orsal to mediate, but some of its members are injured by gunfire. 10 » The election of a new Sunni Mufti ends » At the conclusion of the Council of Ministers a multi-year crisis within the Sunni clerical meeting, Prime Minister Tammam Salam establishment. announces that there is no room for dialogue, negotiations or political solutions with the Takfiris. 11 » An-Nusra Front broadcasts a videotape that » LAF Commander General Jean Kahwaji it claims shows two LAF soldiers announcing their discloses in an interview that the terrorists’ plan defection. was to expand in the Bekaa toward Akkar and the coast to form their own emirate. 5 » A ceasefire is announced in Orsal, and three 12 ISF soldiers are released. » The session to elect a new Lebanese

162 163 president is postponed for the tenth time, until releasing some prisoners, and respect the dignity September 2, due to lack of a quorum. of the refugees. » Deputy MP Nicolas Fattoush presents a draft » The Israeli military "Operation Protective Edge" law that aims to extend parliament’s mandate against Gaza concludes. for two years and seven months. 28 14 » ISIL (Daesh) broadcasts a video of a » In an interview with al-Akhbar newspaper, beheaded corpse, saying that it is the body of Hezbollah leader Nasrallah confirms that LAF soldier Ali Ahmad as-Sayyid (from Fneidek, its forces in al-Quseir and Qalamoun have Akkar). prevented ISIL (Daesh) from reaching Beirut and » A shipment of U.S. weapons destined for the coast. the LAF arrives at the port of Beirut. The official » ISF intelligence arrests a Lebanese national statement published by the U.S. Embassy links on charges of being behind the Twitter account the shipment to the developments in Orsal. of the “Free Sunni Brigades in Baalbek.” The FM-affiliated newspaper Al-Mustaqbal reports, 29 “Hussein Shaman al-Hussein, born in 1995, is a » The minister of interior states that Orsal is a Lebanese citizen from Baalbek’s Al-Sharawneh time bomb. neighborhood and is a member of Hezbollah.” 30 15 » An-Nusra Front announces that it has released Al-Manar TV broadcasts a speech by five Sunni soldiers. Hezbollah's Hassan Nasrallah, in which he calls for ISIL (Daesh) to be confronted, and that UN September Resolution 1701 is failing to protect Lebanon. 1 Rather, the country's protectors are the LAF, the » The LAF receives the body of LAF soldier Ali as- Lebanese people and the Resistance. He also Sayyid, who was among the LAF soldiers taken states that UNIFIL needs to be protected. prisoner in Orsal.

17 » Druze leader Walid Jumblatt calls for the trials » An-Nusra Front releases two of the policemen of jailed Islamists to be accelerated in order to it captured in Orsal during the August 2 clashes, ease tensions. and the Association of Muslim Clerics promises » Hisham al-Hajj, a Lebanese national from that more will be released. Tripoli, is killed in an ISIL (Daesh)led suicide operation in Iraq. Zakaria al-Ahmad, another 23 Lebanese from Tripoli, is also killed while fighting » An-Nusra Front broadcasts a videotape in with a rebel group in Syria. which nine of the LAF and ISF members being held prisoner ask Hezbollah to withdraw from 2 Syria. » The session to elect a new Lebanese » Two projectiles are launched from a southern president is postponed for the eleventh time, border village toward Israel. The IDF retaliates by until September 23, due to lack of a quorum. shelling the area from which the devices were launched. 5 » Israel detonates an electronic eavesdropping » A new videotape shows that seven LAF device it planted in the southern village of soldiers are now in the hands of ISIL (Daesh). Adloun following discovery of the device by Hezbollah members who were attempting 25 to dismantle it. The explosion kills a Hezbollah » A projectile is launched from al-Jarmaq (south member. Lebanon) toward Israel, and the IDF responds by shelling the area. » An-Nusra Front broadcasts video of the detained LAF soldiers and assigns responsibility 26 for their safety to Hezbollah. It also asks Sunnis to » ISIL (Daesh), which holds a number of LAF stop supporting the LAF. soldiers, threatens to kill one of them within 24 hours unless the Lebanese authorities accept 6 indirect negotiations and the principle of » ISIL (Daesh) announces that it has beheaded

162 163 Shia LAF soldier Abbass Medlej. Roads are establishing refugee camps along the blocked to protest the murder, and refugees Lebanese-Syrian border. from Syria evacuate some areas in fear of reprisals for the killing. 19 » An LAF vehicle in Orsal is hit by a 10 kg 8 explosive device that kills two soldiers and » Ayman Sawwan (from Saadnayel) is wounds three. An-Nusra Front accuses the LAF kidnapped in at Tibeh and a ransom is and Hezbollah of staging the attack. demanded. The main Saadnayel road is » A spokesman for an-Nusra declares that the blocked in response, and seven people from group has executed Shia LAF soldier Mohamed Baalbek are abducted but later released. Hamieh.

9 20 » After conducting raids in the Bekaa, the » An Israeli reconnaissance aircraft crashes LAF succeeds in rescuing Ayman Sawwan (see near the Lebanese-Israeli border. above), which gradually eases tensions. » A Hezbollah checkpoint in al-Khreibeh (near » The mother and sister of abducted LAF Baalbek) is hit by an explosive device. soldier Georges Khoury meet with him in the Orsal countryside. 21 » Druze leader Walid Jumblatt resumes his tour 10 of villages in the western Bekaa and calls on the » A sit-in is held and tents are set up in Druze to rebuild the mosques destroyed during Martyrs’ Square by the families of the Druze-Muslim disputes, essentially affirming that LAF soldiers taken prisoner. They are the Druze are Muslims as well. demonstrating for the release of their sons.

» Following a Ministerial Committee 23 meeting held to discuss the issue of refugees » The session to elect a new Lebanese from Syria, Minister of Social Affairs Rachid president is postponed for the twelfth time to Derbas declares that Lebanon will tighten October 9 due to lack of a quorum. the process associated with seeking refuge. » An attack on an LAF checkpoint in al- He again advances the idea of creating Baddawi kills one soldier. camps for the refugees.

24 11 » Gunfire in Tripoli hits a microbus carrying » The LAF claims that it detected a booby- several LAF soldiers. trapped car packed with 75 kg of explosives parked at the entrance to Orsal. 25 » MP Khaled ad-Daher criticizes the LAF's » LAF units raid Syrian refugee camps in Orsal intelligence services and appeals to the and arrest 450 people. Saudi king to withhold any aid originally » LAF Commander General Kahwaji visits the intended for the Lebanese army. During new Grand Mufti and updates him on LAF the Ministerial meeting, Ministers Nohad al- operations in Orsal. Kahwaji stresses that Orsal is Machnouk and Ashraf Rifi assert that Daher’s not under siege. words represent only his opinions and not those of the Future Movement. 26 » The minister of interior states that the 12 government will construct camps for Syrian » The LAF discovers a 200-gram explosive refugees even if there is no consensus on the device in a Saida square. initiative. » U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon David Hale » An-Nusra Front announces that no announces from the Grand Serail that his negotiations over the Lebanese prisoners of country will provide the LAF with Cessna war will take place until the situation in Orsal is aircraft using Saudi aid money. resolved. 17 » An armed group in Tripoli kidnaps two anti- » UN officials warn against the idea of drug policemen and detains them for two hours.

164 165 October military vehicle he used to desert—still loaded 5 with LAF weapons. » Clashes between an-Nusra Front and Hezbollah outside Britel kill 11 Hezbollah and 10 17 an-Nusra Front members. » Gunfire hits an LAF vehicle in al-Beereh (Akkar) killing one soldier. 7 » The minister of social affairs states that » Hezbollah detonates an explosive device Lebanon has stopped receiving refugees from near an IDF patrol in the vicinity of Shebaa Syria and that the construction of camps has Farms, which injures two Israeli soldiers. The been cancelled due to a lack of consensus. IDF responds by shelling Shebaa and the hills around Kfar Chouba. UNIFIL considers the 18 events a breach of UNSCR 1701. » A ceremony in the UNESCO palace organized by Minister of Interior Nohad 9 al-Machnouk takes place on the second » A motorcyclist shoots two LAF soldiers in anniversary of the assassination of General Rihaniyyeh (Akkar), killing one and injuring the Wissam al-Hassan. In his speech, the minister other. states that authorities are close to uncovering » The session to elect a new Lebanese the identity of the assassin and insinuates that president is postponed until October 29 due to Hezbollah and LAF intelligence are complicit in lack of a quorum. the failure of the security plan for the northern Bekaa. 10 » Defense Minister Sami Mekbel begins an » In an interview with the French newspaper Le official visit to Iran to negotiate military aid for Figaro, LAF Commander General Kahwaji warns of ISIL (Daesh) sleeper cells in Tripoli that benefit the LAF. from a Sunni support base. He states that the aim of the Syrian extremist opposition is to 20 open a safe passage to the sea through north » An-Nusra Front announces that LAF soldier Lebanon and ignite the rift between Lebanese Omar Khaled Shamita, who deserted on Shiites and Sunnis. October 18, is now the fifth LAF soldier to defect. Shamita is from Bab at Tabbeneh in Tripoli, and » According to a video, Mohamad Antar his brother was one of the LAF soldiers killed (from Tripoli) becomes the second LAF soldier to during the Nahr el Bared clashes in 2007. announce his desertion from the LAF in order to join an-Nusra Front. » An LAF raid in Aasoun (Dinneyyeh) leads to the arrest of a wanted criminal and suspected 11 ISIL (Daesh) commander Ahmad Salim Mikati. » LAF soldier Abdullah Shehade announces his desertion in order to join an-Nusra. 24 » Clashes between the LAF and extremist 12 Islamic groups in Tripoli injure 20 people, five of » A security solution is found in Tripoli. whom are soldiers. » Two Islamist leaders, Shadi al-Mawlawi and 25 Oussama Mansour, are “allowed” to leave » Armed confrontations between the LAF their Abdullah Bin Massoud Mosque in Bab and extremist Islamists continue in Tripoli and at Tabbeneh and head to an undisclosed expand to the ad-Dinneyeh and al-Mhammara location. areas. Casualties rise to six killed and 52 wounded. 14 » After disappearing four months ago, LAF 26 soldier Abdul Menhem Khaled (from an Akkari » The confrontations in Tripoli intensify. village) announces his defection in order to join ISIL (Daesh). » An expanded meeting at the residence of MP Abdul Latif Kabbara in Tripoli calls for 16 implementation of the Tripoli security plan, » LAF deserter Abdallah Shehade appears in for moderation by the LAF in the use of force a video released by an-Nusra Front with the and for support of the LAF.

164 165 » MP Khaled ad-Daher states that events in clan escapes. When the criminals reach the Tripoli are targeting the Sunnis. neighboring Christian village of Btadii, they break into the home of the Fakhri family and » The Association of Muslim Clerics demand the keys to their four-wheel drive condemns the LAF blockade of vehicle. When the family resists, they shoot neighborhoods in Tripoli and its use of and kill the father and mother and injure the “excessive force.” son. The incident prompts tremendous grief 27 and raises sectarian tension. » After several political intercessions, the LAF enters Bab at Tabbeneh and the clashes 17 in Tripoli stop. » The families of the surviving LAF soldiers being held prisoner establish a roadblock in 28 downtown Beirut after ISIL (Daesh) threatens » In a speech, Saad Hariri states that calls to execute more of the soldiers. The road is for a Sunni uprising in Lebanon do not reflect reopened after officials announce that some the beliefs of Sunnis. He also condemns the death sentences against Islamists have been incitement of soldiers to desert from the LAF. reduced.

29 19 » The session to elect a new Lebanese » The session to elect a new Lebanese president is postponed until November 19 president is postponed until December 10 due due to lack of a quorum. to lack of a quorum.

30 21 » LAF Commander General Kahwaji tours » Prime Minister Tammam Salam issues a military units in Tripoli and states that as long decree cancelling all Independence Day as the army is united, they should have no ceremonies due to the presidential vacancy. fear. 24 » Saad Hariri announces the allocation of » General Security arrests pro-Hezbollah US$20 million for those affected in Tripoli and singer Ali Barakat after he performed songs the north. that were antagonistic toward Saudi Arabia. November 25 5 » A parliamentary session to extend » Hezbollah recovers Imad Ayyad, a fighter parliament’s mandate until June 20, 2017 gains taken in Syria, by exchanging him for two the approval of 95 MPs. prisoners it had captured from the Free Syrian Army. 8 » LAF deserter Omar Khaled Shamita December surrenders to LAF intelligence. 1 » British newspaper The Daily Telegraph 14 reports that British forces are present at the » An LAF unit patrolling the Orsal countryside Lebanese-Syrian border near the (Christian) is hit by an explosive device which injures a village of Ras Baalbek. The soldiers are there to soldier and an officer. An-Nusra Front claims help the LAF control the situation and prevent the explosives were planted by Hezbollah. rebels from entering Lebanon. » During a security conference, the minister 2 of interior announces that 45% of kidnappings » An LAF patrol is ambushed by a terrorist and robberies are perpetrated by refugees group outside Ras Baalbek, and six soldiers are from Syria, and that 35% of those who live in killed. Lebanon are not Lebanese. » British Ambassador Tom Fletcher meets 15 with Speaker Nabih Berri and confirms British » During an LAF raid of the Shia village of Dar military aid to the LAF. The assistance includes al-Wassiaa (the Bekaa) to search for criminals, training and building watchtowers along the a group belonging to the powerful Shia Jaafar Lebanese-Syrian border.

166 167 » As-Safir newspaper reports that the LAF has the “blockade of Orsal” is unacceptable. He arrested a (former) wife of ISIL (Daesh) leader urges authorities to suppress activities intended Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. to stoke Sunni-Shia tensions that are occurring throughout the country. 3 » The session to elect a new Lebanese » Outside Orsal, an LAF explosives expert president is postponed until January 7, 2015 is killed while attempting to dismantle an due to lack of a quorum. explosive device that was meant for the LAF.

» Following the arrest of a number of wives 23 of leaders of Syrian rebel groups, Minister of » A long-awaited dialogue between Justice Ashraf Rifi announces that he is against Hezbollah and Future Movement begins at the arresting women and children. residence of Speaker Nabih Berri.

5 27 » An-Nusra announces that it executed (Shia) » A discreet commemoration is held to mark policeman Ali al-Bazzal. The announcement the first anniversary of the assassination of pro- raises tension in the Bekaa, the policeman's Hariri former Minister Mohammad Chatah. home. In response, members of the man's family kidnap several Sunnis from the 29 neighborhood. » The LAF strengthens its security measures to isolate Orsal from the nearby countryside. A » The Orsal countryside is bombed by the number of residents protest the measures. LAF during an attack against rebels who were allegedly trying to sneak into Lebanese 31 territories. » Separate statements made by the » An explosion in Orsal kills Hussein Ezzeddin, Lebanese Forces party and the Free Patriotic an individual wanted in connection with Movement announce that some 100 lawsuits terrorist actions. between them have been dropped. The actions are intended to facilitate a dialogue 10 similar to the fledgling Hezbollah-Future » Former Prime Minister Saad Hariri tweets that Movement meetings.

166 167 Blank Page he introduction to this report is titled “Stability Tvs. Instabilities.” When Hayya Bina completed its draft of this report in mid-2015, that title seemed an appropriate way to explain the conditions that affected Lebanon during the period covered (2013 – 2014). As we prepare for the release of that report later in the year, those conditions continue to impact Lebanon….

This report is composed of eight chapters, each of which addresses a topic that falls under the general heading, "Lebanon in Conflict." While these chapters range from border issues to domestic violence, they simply cannot address every detail considered under the heading "Stability vs. Instabilities." Despite that constraint, we hope our analyses of the topics covered, and the context provided by the chronologies associated with most of those subjects, help foster a better understanding of the ongoing dialectic between “Stability” and “Instabilities.” Moreover, we trust this work will contribute to a realistic and informed assessment of the viability of Lebanon's fragile equilibrium within the explosive regional framework.

Hayya Bina