Islam Times - Violent clashes erupt in Lebanon over security chief assassination

Islam Times - Violent clashes have erupted between protesters and police forces in the Lebanese capital Beirut, as the country holds a funeral for its recently assassinated internal security chief.

On Sunday, police forces fired tear gas to disperse crowds in the capital.

Security forces prevented protesters angry over the assassination of Wissam al-Hassan, from attempting to storm the office of Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati. The protesters demanded the resignation of the premier.

Meanwhile, the Lebanese opposition has called for anti-government protests, rejecting dialogue unless the government quits over the assassination.

However, many analysts blame Israel for the deadly attack, as Hassan had recently dismantled an Israeli spy cell in Lebanon.

The 47-year-old intelligence chief was killed in a car bomb explosion in a Christian neighborhood in the capital, on Friday. Seven others were also killed in the attack.

Lebanon’s government declared Saturday a day of mourning for the victims of the incident.

The Lebanese resistance movement Hezbollah has condemned the bomb attack, describing it as an attempt to destabilize Lebanon and its national unity.