Pro-Syrian demonstrations in Lebanon
Pro-Syrian demonstrations have broken out in several Lebanese cities hours after Syria announced a phased withdrawal from its western neighbour.
Hundreds of loyalists took to the streets in several Lebanese towns on Saturday to declare support for Syrian President Bashar al-Asad and his allies, after a plan to pull out Syrian forces from Lebanon was announced.
“With our blood, with our souls, we redeem you Bashar,” the crowds, hoisting Lebanese and Arab flags, chanted in Beirut, Tripoli, Nabatiya and Chtura. They also chanted the name of President Emile Lahoud.
Thousands of opposition protesters were in central Beirut, celebrating the withdrawal announcement earlier.
Loyalist parties, including the Hizb Allah resistance group, called a meeting for Sunday to discuss the announcement.