Lebanon’s PM-designate begins consultations

Lebanon’s newly designated prime minister on Saturday began his consultations with parliamentary blocs to discuss the shape of the future government, The Associated Press reported.

Hassan Diab, a university professor and former education minister who was backed by the Hezbollah terrorist organization, was tasked on Thursday with the formation of a government amid ongoing nationwide protests against the country’s ruling elite.

The consultations began a day after scuffles broke out in Beirut and other areas between supporters of the outgoing prime minister, Saad Hariri, and Lebanese troops and riot policemen.

The ex-premier’s supporters were protesting Diab’s nomination. The scuffles left at least seven soldiers injured, according to AP.

Based on Agencies.