0:00 Intro

5:19 2004 - 2005

11:50 Mar Mikhael Agreement

20:23 Sided opposition

27:29 Sectarianism

37:07 Fault

50:41 Protesters

1:02:24 Blast

1:08:54 Baabda

1:12:18 Iran's security in Lebanon

We're with Alain Aoun for Episode 315 of The Beirut Banyan.

Click to watch:

https://youtu.be/klKtZcfxk9Q

We discuss the buildup to March 14, 2005, the political decisions taken in the aftermath of the Syrian army's withdrawal from Lebanon, and the wider role of sectarianism while pursuing national aspirations.

Our conversation includes the geopolitical burden on local affairs, looking back at forced national unity, and protester demands following October 17, 2019.

We also discuss the port blast's implications on sovereignty, a diplomatic way to challenge Iran's security needs in Lebanon, and voter concerns while campaigning in Baabda district.

Alain Aoun is MP candidate in Baabda district.

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Music by Marc Codsi. Animation & illustration by Sana Chaaban.