Lebanon: A Convergence of Political Islam and Criminality

Kamal Salibi, a recognized Lebanese historian, described Lebanese society as "liberal and tolerant, traditional rather than zealous or fanatical in its attitude towards religion and political ideology." Unfortunately, the openness that defined Lebanon's success also led to its failures. Confessionalism, a fragile political environment resulting in a perpetually weak central government, and internal meddling by Lebanon's neighbors and imperial powers have framed its fractured history. The co...