Liban

Liban is a country in the Levant region of the Middle East, located on the eastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea. It is bordered by Syria to the north and east and by Israel to the south, with a short coastline along the Mediterranean. The capital and largest city is Beirut. Liban covers about 10,452 square kilometers and has a highly diverse population.

Geography and climate are shaped by the Lebanon Mountains, which run parallel to the coast, and the Anti-Lebanon range to the east. This creates a narrow coastal plain and varied landscapes, from rugged highlands to fertile valleys. The climate is Mediterranean, with wet winters and hot, dry summers; higher elevations receive snowfall in winter.

Population and society: The country hosts a mix of religious and ethnic communities, including Muslims and Christians, along with smaller Armenian and other groups. The official language is Arabic; French is widely used in administration and media, and English is common in education and business. The population includes a large number of refugees from neighboring conflicts, especially Syria.

History: The area has ancient roots in Phoenician city-states and later formed part of successive empires. Under Ottoman rule for centuries, Liban gained independence in 1943. A long civil conflict from 1975 to 1990 led to political reforms under the Taif Agreement and postwar reconstruction. Since then, the country has faced regional tensions, wars, and economic challenges, including a severe financial crisis and the 2020 Beirut port explosion.

Politics and economy: Liban operates as a constitutional republic with a confessional political system. The economy relies on services, banking, tourism, and remittances but has struggled with currency instability and electricity shortages. The government has pursued reform with international support.

Culture and heritage: Libanese cuisine, music, and literature reflect a Mediterranean crossroads. Archaeological sites such as Byblos, Baalbek, and Tyre are recognized UNESCO World Heritage Sites.