LevantTime .

The American military operation against the jihadist group Daesh (Islamic State or IS) launched last Friday to Saturday night follows the attack perpetrated on Saturday, December 13, by the terrorist organization against American and allied forces in Syria. This attack was carried out by a member of the Syrian security forces, embarrassing the Damascus government, which is trying to get closer to the United States. While "more than 70 targets" were hit across the country, US President Donald Trump spoke of "very heavy reprisals". Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth announced on X that it was a "direct response" and a "declaration of vengeance" after the attack on Saturday that killed two American servicemen and a translator in Syria.

The “Gathering of Lebanese Shia” sent a message to Pope Leo XIV stating that the Lebanese State’s exclusive control of weapons “is the essential foundation for building a strong and just State.” Supporting peace “in accordance with Arab initiatives and international legitimacy,” the Gathering stressed its commitment to “acting exclusively under the authority of the State and the rule of law, and to supporting everything that strengthens its presence.” The “Gathering of Lebanese Shia” brings together academics, journalists, senior professionals, and Shiite citizens known for their sovereigntist stance, fundamentally opposed to Hezbollah’s political project.