Lebanese army storms complex after clashes
- 11 years ago
Lebanese forces stormed a complex holding gunmen loyal to a radical Islamist cleric in the city of Sidon.
At least 12 soldiers were killed in clashes between the military and supporters of Sheikh Ahmed al-Assir.
Several tanks and army vehicles were torched.
Sniper fire continued to hit nearby streets, so it was unclear how many buildings Assir's gunmen still control.
The city has been on edge since violence erupted here last week between Sunni and Shi'ite Muslim fighters, at odds over the Syria. Many in Lebanon fear that unrest across the border will further strain fragile sectarian relations at home, and could plunge Lebanon into another civil war.
At least 12 soldiers were killed in clashes between the military and supporters of Sheikh Ahmed al-Assir.
Several tanks and army vehicles were torched.
Sniper fire continued to hit nearby streets, so it was unclear how many buildings Assir's gunmen still control.
The city has been on edge since violence erupted here last week between Sunni and Shi'ite Muslim fighters, at odds over the Syria. Many in Lebanon fear that unrest across the border will further strain fragile sectarian relations at home, and could plunge Lebanon into another civil war.