Yesterday, Lebanon-based Hezbollah party, and its Christian ally Michel Aun, decided to quit the coalition of the Lebanese unity government. As a result, the United States, Israel and France started diplomatic moves aimed at thwarting possible clashes between Hezbollah and Israel.

In related news, Arab League Secretary-General, Amro Mousa, urged Lebanon’s political leaders to act in a calm and a wise manner amidst the collapse of the Lebanese government, and the threat of a civil war in the country.

The Israeli army conducted an arrest campaign in the occupied West Bank, and kidnapped eight Palestinians, which Israel claims are wanted by its security forces. The kidnappings took place in Hebron, Bethlehem, Tulkarem and Jericho

Even amidst international condemnation, the takeover of the Shepherd Hotel in East Jerusalem by Jewish settlers continued yesterday. Settlers are now planning to build 50 more housing units, in addition to the 20 units already authorized, in the Arab neighborhood of Sheikh Jarrah.

That sums up our news for today, thank you for joining us from occupied Bethlehem, you have been listening to Palestine Today, from International Middle East Media Center. For more updates, please visit our website at www.imemc.org. This report has been brought to you by Husam Qassis and Ramona M.