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Bassam Zaazaa

Beirut, Lebanon
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About Bassam
Bassam Zaazaa is a journalist presently based in Beirut, Lebanon, working as a freelance editor/journalist contributing with regional publications; Al Arabiya English, The National, Gulf News, Arab News & The New Arab. 
Veteran journalist with nearly 20 years of experience. 
Smart & wise news digger specialized in offbeat, trendy and humane stories. Core expertise is in crime and justice reporting having served as a Legal and Court Correspondent in Dubai for a decade. 
An excellent journalist with unparalleled skills when it comes to chasing street and peoples’ stories that move the hearts and inspires readers’ interaction. 
Exceptional chaser of funny/honey stories that draw smiles on readers’ faces.
Languages
Arabic English
Services
Feature Stories Content Writing Corporate Content
+5
Skills
Fact Checking
Portfolio

Jordanian cyclist on a mission to cross GCC countries to promote tourism

04 Apr 2024  |  arabnews.com
Jordanian cyclist Issa Al-Qazaqza embarked on a mission to cross GCC countries to promote tourism and spread a message of love and peace. Starting in Saudi Arabia on July 18, he visited several cities before reaching Qatar. His journey aims to promote Jordanian hospitality and tourism. Meanwhile, tensions in the Middle East continue with an Israeli strike in Syria and ongoing conflict in Gaza. International discussions, including between Jordanian and Irish foreign ministers, focus on the need for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid. Egypt's efforts to facilitate a truce and the UK's coordination on the crisis were also highlighted.

Palestinian Scout Association members volunteer to assist displaced people in war-torn Gaza

03 Mar 2024  |  Arab News
Over 150 members of the Palestinian Scout Association are volunteering to support children, women, and displaced families in Gaza amidst a humanitarian crisis following military actions. They are providing basic necessities, psychological support, and meals in cooperation with NGOs like World Central Kitchen. US troops are constructing a maritime pier to facilitate aid delivery, despite concerns about Israeli checkpoints and the risk of famine in northern Gaza. A senior Hamas official asserts that Israel's military objectives in Gaza will not be met. Meanwhile, Palestinian refugees in Cairo, including a businessman and a family, are finding ways to cope and maintain their culture through food businesses.

Amit Midha appointed global CEO of PIF company Alat

06 Feb 2024  |  arabnews.com
Amit Midha has been appointed as the global CEO of Alat, a company formed by the Public Investment Fund to enhance Saudi Arabia's technological sector and create investment opportunities. Midha, who previously led Dell Technologies' growth in Asia Pacific and Japan, aims to transform electronics and advanced industrials by establishing a sustainable manufacturing hub in the Kingdom, leveraging clean energy sources like solar, wind, and green hydrogen. Alat's focus is on sustainable manufacturing to help global companies reduce emissions and achieve carbon-zero manufacturing.

Palestinian Scout Association members volunteer to assist displaced people in war-torn Gaza

26 Oct 2023  |  www.arabnews.pk
More than 150 members of the Palestinian Scout Association are volunteering to support displaced people in Gaza, providing essential services and psychological support amid the ongoing conflict. The scouts, along with other NGOs like Sharek Youth Forum and World Central Kitchen, are helping to manage temporary camps and distribute food. The situation in Gaza remains dire, with significant displacement and casualties following Israel's military actions in response to Hamas's attacks. International efforts for a ceasefire continue, but a resolution remains uncertain.

Video of Lebanese PM mistaking aide for Italy’s Giorgia Meloni goes viral

25 Oct 2023  |  Arab News
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati mistakenly greeted an aide, Patrizia Scurti, as Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at Beirut Airport, leading to a viral video and social media uproar. The incident, which occurred during a welcome reception for Meloni, resulted in mockery and criticism of Mikati online. A source close to Mikati's office described the mistake as innocent, noting the resemblance between the two women. During her visit, Meloni inspected the Italian contingent at the UN Interim Force in Lebanon and expressed gratitude for their service.

Fans have mixed response to footballers expressing solidarity over Gaza conflict

23 Oct 2023  |  Arab News
Top-tier footballers like Mohamed Salah, Karim Benzema, and Noussair Mazraoui have sparked controversy by expressing solidarity with Gaza on social media, leading to mixed reactions from fans and suspensions or questioning by their clubs. Opinions vary, with some supporting players' rights to express humanitarian views, while others believe sports and politics should remain separate. The article also touches on other football-related news, including player suspensions, upcoming Premier League matches, and transfer activities involving major clubs like PSG, Real Madrid, and Barcelona.

Dogs can associate words with objects, study finds

10 Oct 2023  |  www.arabnews.pk
Dogs can understand that some words refer to objects similarly to humans, as evidenced by a study analyzing canine brain waves. Conducted at Eotvos Lorand University in Budapest, the research found that dogs activate a memory of an object when they hear its name, indicating a species-wide capacity to understand words referentially. The study involved analyzing brain activity in 18 dogs and showed different brain patterns when words matched objects compared to when they did not. Researchers plan to explore if this ability is specific to dogs or present in other mammals.

Besiktas club scraps promising footballer’s contract over dating app profile

10 Oct 2023  |  Arab News
Turkish footballer Emirhan Delibas had his contract terminated by Besiktas after being discovered with a profile on the Bumble dating app, which showed a discrepancy in his age. Delibas denied the profile was his, calling it fake. The club announced the termination was mutual, without specifying reasons. Opinions from various individuals highlighted the importance of a footballer's behavior both on and off the field, with some considering the club's decision harsh and unfair. Delibas has represented Turkey at various youth levels.

Brazil's Most Expensive Cow: Viatina-19 and the Future of Cattle Breeding

10 Oct 2023  |  Arab News
Brazil's cattle industry is exemplified by Viatina-19, the most expensive cow ever sold at auction, valued at $4 million. This elite cow symbolizes Brazil's ambitions to dominate the global beef market despite environmental concerns. The article discusses the economic significance of cattle breeding, the environmental impact of beef production, and the efforts to improve cattle genetics. Key figures include Ney Pereira, who co-owns Viatina-19, and President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who is working to open new markets for Brazilian beef. The article also highlights the challenges and criticisms of elite cattle breeding.

German football legend Matthaus pleases driver left dissatisfied by Neuer’s reward

07 Oct 2023  |  Arab News
Lothar Matthaus stepped in to please Albanian taxi driver Hazir S., who was dissatisfied with the reward given by Manuel Neuer for returning his wallet. Matthaus bought the signed Bayern Munich jersey for €1,000 and decided to auction it for charity. The driver had found Neuer's wallet containing €800 and two credit cards and returned it after a costly 120 km ride. The driver and fans criticized Neuer's reward as inadequate, while Matthaus's gesture was praised.

Israel on board with Gaza peace deal, as US airdrops begin

07 Oct 2023  |  www.arabnews.pk
Israel has broadly accepted a ceasefire deal with Hamas, contingent on the release of vulnerable hostages. The US has begun airdropping humanitarian aid into Gaza, where the conflict has resulted in severe civilian casualties and shortages of essential supplies. The ceasefire aims to create space for a more enduring peace and allow a significant increase in humanitarian aid. The conflict has seen extensive loss of life and destruction, with international efforts ongoing to secure a truce.

Families flee as fire breaks out in a 12-floor apartment building in Dubai

04 Oct 2023  |  Arab News
A fire broke out in Al-Meer Tower, a 12-story residential building in Dubai’s Barsha Heights, causing dozens of families to evacuate. The fire, which started on the seventh floor, was extinguished by fire crews within 21 minutes, with no casualties reported. Dubai Civil Defense and Dubai Police responded promptly, ensuring the safety of residents and managing the scene effectively. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Families flee as fire breaks out in a 12-floor apartment building in Dubai

04 Oct 2023  |  www.arabnews.pk
A fire broke out in Al-Meer Tower, a 12-story residential building in Dubai’s Barsha Heights, causing dozens of families to evacuate. The fire, which started on the seventh floor, was brought under control within 21 minutes by Dubai Civil Defense, with no casualties reported. Residents described the panic and quick evacuation efforts. Dubai Police managed the scene and rerouted traffic. The site has been handed over to authorities for further investigation.

Saudis save 2 Ukrainians trapped in ‘deceivingly dangerous’ Wadi Lajab

03 Oct 2023  |  Arab News
A group of Saudis rescued two Ukrainian tourists trapped in Wadi Lajab, Jazan, after they went swimming in a deceptively dangerous area. The rescue, led by the Fazaa Search and Rescue Team, was challenging and took about an hour. The incident, captured on video, has gone viral, earning widespread praise for the rescuers' bravery. The Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage and the Jazan Tourism Development Council have approved the valley as a tourist site, enhancing its appeal with rock climbing opportunities.

Investor in court for practicing unlicensed cosmetic medicine in Dubai

03 Oct 2023  |  Arab News
An investor in a medical consultation company faces up to three years in jail and/or a fine up to $542,700 for practicing unlicensed medicine in Dubai. The Dubai Healthcare Authority, acting on a tip-off, conducted a sting operation leading to the investor's arrest for administering cosmetic Botox and fillers without a proper license. Legal experts indicate that the suspect could face severe penalties if found guilty, including jail time and substantial fines. A hearing is scheduled for next month.

Footballer misses own wedding to be with new club

31 Jul 2023  |  Arab News
Sierra Leone forward Mohamed Buya Turay missed his own wedding to join Swedish football club Malmo. Turay's brother stood in for him at the ceremony, while Turay traveled to Sweden to start his new job. The footballer clarified that the wedding photos were taken in advance and that he plans to bring his wife to Sweden. The story highlights the balance between professional commitments and personal life.

3 arrested after scared Lebanese boy dies after seeing horror scenes filmed for TikTok

12 May 2023  |  Arab News
Three suspects have been detained in connection with the death of a six-year-old Lebanese boy, Mohamed Haydar Istanbuli, who suffered a heart attack after witnessing horror scenes being filmed for TikTok in Tyre. The suspects include two girls under 18 and a man operating a drone. The boy's father has lodged a criminal complaint, and further investigation is underway. Cardiologist Dr. Afif Khafaja, who conducted the autopsy, suggested that the boy might have had an undiagnosed medical condition. The incident has raised concerns about filming permissions and safety.

Jordan restaurant offers mansaf-lovers an opportunity for a nap after meals

30 Mar 2023  |  arabnews.com
A restaurant in Amman, Jordan, named 'Moab,' offers beds for customers to nap after eating the traditional high-fat dish mansaf, which is known to cause drowsiness. The idea began as a joke but has become a practical feature for diners. The restaurant's location and the cultural significance of mansaf are highlighted, along with the owner's son Musab Mubeideen's comments on the dish and the restaurant's unique service.

Couple whose siblings died in Beirut blast turn tragedy into romance

17 Mar 2023  |  arabnews.com
William Noun and Maria Fares, both 28, found love after the tragic Beirut Port explosion in August 2020, which claimed the lives of their siblings Joe Noun and Sahar Fares, who were volunteers at the Beirut Firefighting Brigade. The couple, who met during protests and memorial services, announced their engagement and plan to marry next summer in Noun's home village, Mechmech. They intend to honor their late siblings by naming their future children after them.

French couple cycle into Kingdom after 5,000km in the saddle

12 Mar 2023  |  Arab News
A young French couple, Ariane Prodon and Leo Fourure, embarked on a yearlong cycling adventure, covering over 5,000 km and traveling through eight countries before arriving in Saudi Arabia. They expressed their appreciation for the hospitality and safety they felt in the Kingdom. The couple plans to explore the natural areas, mountains, and deserts of Saudi Arabia, avoiding crowded cities. They have a three-month visa and intend to stay until the end of Ramadan.

Lebanese teacher turns home into classroom as colleagues’ strike rages on

25 Feb 2023  |  arabnews.com
In response to a strike by Lebanese public school teachers over wages amidst a financial crisis, Sawsan Mohammad Diab, a teacher from Zawtar El-Gharbiyeh, has transformed her home into a classroom to continue educating her seventh and eighth graders. Diab offers these classes free of charge, motivated by a sense of duty and the educational needs of her students. Her initiative has inspired other teachers to adopt similar measures, ensuring that students remain engaged in learning despite the disruptions caused by the economic situation and the ongoing strike.

Lebanese astrologer predicted an Arab team in World Cup semifinals

11 Dec 2022  |  Arab News
Lebanese astrologer Layla Abdullatif accurately predicted Morocco's advancement to the World Cup semifinals, as well as Saudi Arabia's victory over Argentina in the group stages. Known for her precise forecasts, Abdullatif shared her predictions on Instagram and YouTube, garnering viral attention. Despite her success, she insists on relying on intuition rather than claiming to read the future. Her prediction of Morocco's success brought joy to fans across the Arab world and Africa. Abdullatif, who has a history of notable predictions including the assassination of Lebanon's Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri, refrained from making a prediction for the World Cup final but expressed her best wishes for the team.

Lebanese woman set on fire by husband in row over unwanted pregnancy dies in hospital

17 Aug 2022  |  Arab News
A pregnant Lebanese woman, Hana Mohammed Khodor, died in hospital after being beaten and set on fire by her husband for refusing to have an abortion. The incident occurred in Tripoli, Lebanon, and her husband, identified as A. A., was arrested while attempting to flee the country. Khodor's family had sought financial support for her extensive medical treatment. The Lebanese Internal Security Forces were involved in the arrest.

World Cup hospitality website lists Palestine, not Israel, as country

11 Aug 2022  |  Arab News
The official FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 hospitality website lists Palestine instead of Israel, sparking reactions from various stakeholders. Arab football fans praised the move as a recognition of Palestine, while Israeli media raised concerns. The decision was seen as a political statement, with some comparing it to the international support for Ukraine. Opinions varied, with some viewing it as a moral victory for Palestinians and others questioning its practical impact.

Lebanese woman set on fire by husband over unwanted pregnancy

06 Aug 2022  |  Arab News
A Lebanese woman, Hana Mohammed Khodor, is in critical condition after being set on fire by her husband, A.A., over an unwanted pregnancy amid Lebanon's economic crisis. Khodor, who was five months pregnant, suffered full body burns and lost her baby. She is on life support and requires extensive medical treatment, with her family unable to afford the costs. The Lebanese Internal Security Forces have arrested the husband, who was planning to flee the country. Doctors at Al-Salam Hospital are providing care and have waived their fees, but the family still faces significant financial challenges.

Lebanese man offers kidney for sale on Facebook to pay for wife’s treatment

09 Jul 2022  |  Arab News
Khalil Adnan Al-Dghayli, an unemployed Lebanese man, is willing to face jail time for organ trafficking by offering his kidney for sale on Facebook to fund his wife Sarah Al-Hussein's treatment for Crohn's disease. The family is in dire financial straits, with Al-Dghayli unable to cover hospital bills and monthly medication costs of $400. Lebanon's economic crisis exacerbates the situation, with patients struggling to afford treatments. Some NGOs and the UN, which covers 80% of the hospital bill since Al-Hussein is Syrian, have offered assistance. Al-Dghayli, who has lost faith in Lebanese officials, is determined to do whatever it takes to save his wife, who recently gave birth to their daughter.

Egyptian man who stabbed female student to death to be hanged

07 Jul 2022  |  arabnews.com
An Egyptian man, Mohamed Adel, will be executed by hanging after being convicted by Egypt’s Al-Mansoura Criminal Court for the premeditated murder of his female colleague, Nayera Ashraf, by slitting her neck at Al-Mansoura University. The murder, which occurred on June 20 and involved Adel using a knife, sparked widespread outrage. The court's decision was influenced by the opinion of the republic’s grand mufti and the Shariah. The rapid legal proceedings are seen as a deterrent to similar crimes. The case is subject to automatic appeal. The incident was part of a disturbing trend of femicide in the Arab world, highlighted by the murder of Jordanian student Iman Irshaid in Amman.

Man ‘broke off engagement over fiancee’s botched cosmetic surgery’

15 May 2022  |  Arab News
A man ended his engagement after his fiancée's botched cosmetic surgery left her disfigured. The woman, who also quit her job and lost interest in marriage, sued the Dubai-based polyclinic and the surgeon for $111,000 in compensation. The court found the surgeon guilty of malpractice, causing a 10 percent permanent disability to her nose, and held the polyclinic liable for allowing the incompetent surgeon to operate. The primary court awarded her $14,000, a decision upheld by the Appellate Court, with further appeals possible.

Lebanese activist shown shoving energy minister turns himself in

26 Apr 2022  |  Arab News
Elie Haykal, a Lebanese activist and member of the Lebanese Forces, turned himself in to police after a video of him shoving Energy Minister Walid Fayyad went viral. The incident occurred outside a diner in Beirut, and Haykal is seen delivering a message to Fayyad before pushing him. The act was mostly criticized on social media, despite Fayyad's unpopular performance, as he is known to travel without security. Information Minister Ziad Al-Makary stated that ministers condemned the assault and called for legal action. Haykal's lawyer, Ralph Tannous, mentioned that Haykal could be tried for misdemeanours and did not rule out the possibility of a waiver from Fayyad.

Lebanese woman labeled ‘uncivilized’ for shooting and killing dog in front of her children

15 Apr 2022  |  arabnews.com
A Lebanese woman faced public outrage and potential legal action after a video of her shooting and killing a dog in Lebanon's Western Bekaa Valley went viral. The Minister of Agriculture, Abbas Al-Hajj Hassan, called for an investigation, and lawyer Antoine Kanaan noted the act is punishable under animal welfare laws, though the penalties may be seen as insufficient. The woman claimed self-defense, stating the dog had previously bitten her daughter. Animal activist Ghina Nehfawi and the NGO Animals Lebanon called for her punishment, and legal action is being pursued by contacting Judge Iyad Badran.

Lebanese soldier arrested on suspicion of killing dentist over ‘unsatisfactory’ treatment

15 Feb 2022  |  Arab News
A Lebanese army soldier was arrested for fatally stabbing dentist Elie Jasser in Ablah village, Bekaa Valley, after his fiancee's tooth pain persisted post-treatment. The incident, captured on CCTV, has sparked outrage and calls for capital punishment on social media. Jasser, a new father and Saint Joseph University graduate, was pronounced dead at a hospital. The suspect admitted to the crime and will face further questioning. The Lebanese Internal Security Forces are handling the investigation.

Lebanese man who used force to retrieve $50,000 bank deposit released on bail

05 Feb 2022  |  arabnews.com
Abdullah Al-Saii, who took hostages and threatened to blow up a bank in Lebanon to withdraw $50,000 of his savings, was released on bail. The incident occurred at the BBAC in Jeb Jannine, where Al-Saii was armed and demanded his money, citing refusals due to the economic crisis. After a nearly five-hour standoff, the bank agreed to give the money to his wife, and Al-Saii surrendered. He remains uncharged, with the possibility of facing misdemeanor charges. Judge Amani Salama's decision to release him and allow him to keep the money was met with social media praise, with Al-Saii being called a 'national hero'.

Lebanese bank staff want security beefed up after hostage standoff

22 Jan 2022  |  arabnews.com
Bank employees in Lebanon are demanding increased security following a hostage situation at the Bank of Beirut and Arab Countries branch in Bekaa Valley. Abdullah Al-Saii, armed with a gun, a grenade, and benzene, held over 10 people hostage to withdraw $50,000, citing previous denials due to the economic crisis. The standoff ended peacefully after negotiations. Bank staff, feeling unsafe, are calling for more security, recounting numerous attacks since the financial crisis began. Branch manager Wael Imad criticized banks for not protecting employees from the fallout of denied withdrawal requests.

Lebanese man who threatened to blow up bank that withheld his money begins hunger strike

19 Jan 2022  |  Arab News
A Lebanese man, Abdullah Al-Saii, began a hunger strike after being arrested for taking hostages and threatening to blow up a bank in an attempt to withdraw his own $50,000. The incident highlights the severe financial crisis in Lebanon, where banks have blocked access to accounts. Al-Saii's actions have garnered support on social media, with some viewing him as a national hero. The judiciary's quick action to confiscate the money from his wife has been criticized, reflecting broader discontent with the banking system and legal responses in the country.

Iran’s football team faces social media ridicule over bulky luggage at Beirut airport

10 Nov 2021  |  Arab News
Iran’s national football team faced ridicule on social media for carrying excessive luggage upon arrival in Beirut for a World Cup qualifier match. Speculations included accusations of smuggling military equipment to Hezbollah. The Lebanese Football Association and airport security officials denied any wrongdoing, emphasizing the team's need for sports equipment and food. Interior Minister Bassam Mawlawi called for an investigation into the matter. The incident highlighted Lebanon's political divides, with some supporting the Iranian team and others criticizing the social media backlash.

Israel’s new leader to present Iran plan in first White House visit

23 Aug 2021  |  Arab News
New Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett plans to propose a new strategy on Iran during his first visit to the White House, urging President Joe Biden not to revive the 2015 nuclear deal. The visit aims to establish a positive relationship between the two leaders, contrasting with the previous tensions under Netanyahu. Bennett emphasizes the urgency of stopping Iran's nuclear advancements and plans to present a detailed strategy to Biden. The Biden administration, while opposing further expansion of Israeli settlements, is not expected to press Bennett on Palestinian statehood during this visit. Rising tensions along the Israel-Gaza border may impact the visit.

Lebanese politician in Beirut blast investigation under fire over daughter’s wedding

14 Aug 2021  |  Arab News
Youssef Fenianos, a former Lebanese minister under investigation for the 2020 Beirut blast, faces public outrage for requesting anti-riot police at his daughter's wedding to prevent protests. The incident highlights widespread anger towards Lebanon's ruling class amid economic collapse and ongoing power and fuel shortages. Fenianos, charged with negligence and possible intent to murder, has yet to appear before the investigating judge. The Internal Security Forces defended their decision as standard procedure, while public figures and activists condemned Fenianos's actions as disrespectful to blast victims' families.

Electricity crisis deprives Lebanese fans of their beloved European football

13 Aug 2021  |  Arab News
Lebanese sports fans are facing the disappointment of missing much of the European football season due to widespread electricity blackouts and diesel shortages amid the country's economic collapse. Many fans were unable to watch the UEFA Super Cup match between Chelsea and Villarreal due to power failures. Outraged residents have blocked roads in response to the central bank's decision to stop subsidizing fuel imports. Some fans are putting the situation into perspective, recognizing that the lack of electricity affects essential daily tasks more significantly than missing football games.

Heroic Beirut nurse reunited with babies she saved from port explosion

04 Aug 2021  |  www.arabnews.pk
Pamela Zeinoun, a nurse celebrated for rescuing three premature babies during the Beirut port explosion, was reunited with the children on the first anniversary of the disaster. The explosion, which devastated St. George Hospital University Medical Center and killed 22 people there, left a lasting impact on the city. Zeinoun's heroic actions were captured in a viral photograph, and the reunion was a poignant moment reflecting the resilience and recovery of those affected.

Heroic Beirut nurse reunited with babies she saved from port explosion

04 Aug 2021  |  Arab News
Pamela Zeinoun, a nurse celebrated for saving three premature babies during the Beirut port explosion, was reunited with the children on the first anniversary of the disaster. The explosion, which devastated St. George Hospital University Medical Center and much of Beirut, killed over 200 people and injured thousands. Zeinoun's heroic actions, captured in a viral photograph, involved rescuing the infants from the wreckage and carrying them to safety. The reunion was a poignant moment, highlighting the ongoing impact of the catastrophe on the victims and their families.

Amid Lebanon’s drastic fuel shortages, the rare sight of a woman petrol station attendant brings hope

12 Jul 2021  |  Arab News
Amani Mneimneh, a 21-year-old woman, has become a symbol of hope in Lebanon amid the country's severe fuel shortages and economic collapse. Defying social taboos, she works as a petrol station attendant in Saida, a job traditionally seen as male-dominated. Her story gained widespread attention after an acquaintance posted photos of her on Facebook, leading to an outpouring of support and some criticism. Despite the challenges, Mneimneh is proud to support her family financially and remains committed to her work.

Expatriate workers at gas stations in Lebanon face insults, threats and assault amid fuel shortage

24 Jun 2021  |  Arab News
Lebanon is experiencing severe fuel shortages amid an escalating economic crisis, leading to violence and threats against expatriate gas station workers. Many workers, primarily from Bangladesh, Egypt, Syria, and Sudan, face insults, physical assaults, and even death threats from frustrated customers. The devaluation of the Lebanese currency has drastically reduced their earnings, prompting many to consider returning home. Authorities are attempting to address the crisis, but the measures are seen as temporary solutions. The situation has led to significant social instability and security concerns.

Mother and four daughters killed as they looked for fuel amid Lebanon’s petrol shortage

23 Jun 2021  |  Arab News
A Lebanese mother and her four daughters were killed in a car accident involving a military vehicle while searching for fuel amid Lebanon's severe petrol shortage. The family was preparing to travel to Beirut airport to pick up the daughters' father, who was returning from working abroad. The accident, which also resulted in the death of their driver, occurred due to a vehicle attempting to bypass a petrol queue. Lebanon is experiencing massive fuel shortages, exacerbating the country's economic crisis and leading to numerous traffic accidents.

Gebran Bassil ‘coerced’ my father to apologize, says Lebanese woman hailed for confronting MP

22 Jun 2021  |  Arab News
Yasmine Masri, a Lebanese woman, confronted MP Gebran Bassil, accusing him of corruption and responsibility for Lebanon's economic collapse. Despite facing physical threats and her father being coerced into apologizing, Masri remains defiant. The incident highlights widespread anger towards Lebanon's ruling elite, with Bassil, linked to President Michel Aoun and Hezbollah, symbolizing the country's corrupt politicians. Masri's actions have garnered support from civil society and public figures like artist Elissa.

First woman weightlifter to represent Lebanon at the Olympics: ‘My dream has become a reality’

14 Jun 2021  |  Arab News
Mahassen Hala Fattouh, the first female weightlifter to represent Lebanon at the Olympics, expresses her gratitude and pride in qualifying for the 2021 Tokyo Games. She aims to break her personal records and hopes to inspire other Lebanese women and girls. Lebanon's caretaker sports minister, Vartine Ohanian, congratulated her on this historic achievement. Fattouh, who is based in the US, is ranked first in Asia and 12th in the world, promising a special performance at the Olympics.

Lebanese woman assaulted by bodyguards after shaming lawmaker Gebran Bassil in public

13 Jun 2021  |  Arab News
A video showing a Lebanese woman, Yasmine Al-Masri, being assaulted by bodyguards of Gebran Bassil, head of the Free Patriotic Movement, went viral after she publicly shamed him. The incident, which occurred at a restaurant in Al Batroun, sparked widespread social media outrage. Bassil's media office denied the assault, claiming a peaceful response to foul language. The event led to trending hashtags and public condemnation of Bassil's actions, with notable figures like TV host Ghada Eid and artist Elissa voicing their support for Al-Masri.

Legendary Lebanese football coach, Adnan Al-Sharqi, who won 11 league titles in a row, dies aged 80

01 Jun 2021  |  Arab News
Adnan Al-Sharqi, a legendary Lebanese football coach and former player, passed away at the age of 80 after battling cancer. Known for his long association with Al-Ansar Sporting Club, Al-Sharqi led the team to 11 consecutive league titles and numerous other victories. His death has prompted widespread tributes from fans, former teammates, and the football community, celebrating his significant contributions to Lebanese football.

Lebanon: woman and lover arrested for stashing drugs in husband’s car in bid to frame him

03 May 2021  |  Arab News
A wife and her lover were arrested in Lebanon for planting drugs in the husband's car to frame him. The husband, stopped by police in Tabarja, was found with 11 bags of narcotics but denied ownership. Further investigation revealed the wife and her lover's plot. Both were detained, and the case is under further investigation.

Lebanon’s Ramadan sweet makers latest to take aim at beleaguered central bank governor

20 Apr 2021  |  Arab News
Ahmad Daouk, a sweet shop owner in Beirut, has gained attention for his sarcastic sign blaming Lebanon's central bank governor, Riad Salameh, and other officials for the country's economic collapse. The financial crisis has severely impacted the affordability of traditional Ramadan treats, with the Lebanese pound losing over 80% of its value. Daouk's sign, which mocks the officials, has sparked a debate on social media, highlighting the widespread frustration and economic hardship faced by many Lebanese citizens.

Lebanese Nurse Saves Newborns After Beirut Explosion

08 Oct 2020  |  The National
Pamela Zeinoun, a nurse at St George Hospital University Medical Centre in Beirut, became a national heroine after rescuing three newborns from the hospital following the devastating Beirut port explosion. Despite being thrown by the blast, she managed to stay calm and, with the help of a father and doctors, retrieved the babies from under steel shelves. The hospital, located near the explosion site, suffered significant damage, with staff casualties and injuries. Zeinoun and others navigated blocked exits and damaged stairs to evacuate, eventually walking five kilometers to find transport to another hospital for the babies. Her actions were driven by the fear of losing the infants and ensuring their safety.

https://english.alarabiya.net/en/features/2020/08/16/Business-owners-suffer-blow-as-Beirut-explosion-wrecks-caf-s-galleries-livelihoods

https://english.alarabiya.net/en/features/2020/09/30/Largest-pumpkin-in-Middle-East-harvested-in-Lebanon-after-120-days-on-the-vine

Lebanon’s former beauty queen throws wedding party amid ban

02 Aug 2020  |  Arab News
Miss Lebanon 2015, Valerie Abou Chacra, held her wedding party with businessman Ziyad Ammar in Bkerke, Lebanon, despite a government-imposed lockdown to prevent the spread of coronavirus. The wedding, which was led by Maronite Patriarch Cardinal Mar Bechara Boutros Al-Rai, sparked controversy as it appeared to violate the ban on social gatherings. The Health Minister, Dr. Hamad Hassan, mentioned in a televised interview that seven wedding functions had been granted permission with specific protective measures. However, it was unclear if Abou Chacra's wedding was among these exemptions. The Interior Ministry reiterated that social gatherings were banned during the lockdown, and permissions could be revoked for any violations. The incident received mixed reactions on social media and raised questions about the enforcement of lockdown regulations.

Suicides in Lebanon Spark Outrage Amid Economic Crisis

20 Jul 2020  |  The National
Lebanon is facing a severe economic crisis that has led to a series of suicides, sparking public outrage. The most publicized suicide occurred in Beirut's Hamra area, where a man shot himself and left a note, drawing attention to the dire situation. The crisis, exacerbated by the pandemic, has pushed a significant portion of the population below the poverty line, with the Lebanese pound losing value and basic goods becoming unaffordable. Protests against the government's handling of the situation have been ongoing since last October. The article also mentions other recent suicides linked to the economic hardship. Experts, including economist Sami Nader, warn that without reforms and international assistance, particularly from the IMF, the situation could worsen.

Lebanon's Garbage Collectors Strike for US Dollar Salaries Amid Economic Crisis

25 May 2020  |  GulfNews
In Lebanon, hundreds of garbage collectors, including South Asians and Lebanese, went on strike to demand their salaries in US dollars due to the country's economic crisis and the devaluation of the Lebanese pound. The strike involved a sit-in at a waste collection company's office and escalated to clashes requiring police intervention. The economic downturn, exacerbated by COVID-19 and capital controls, has severely impacted expatriate workers, leading to job losses, salary cuts, and payment issues. Embassies from Bangladesh, India, and Sri Lanka are involved in addressing their citizens' concerns, with many workers seeking repatriation. The Lebanese General Security announced plans to organize evacuation trips for foreign laborers in coordination with embassies.
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