Lebanon

Lebanon, officially the Lebanese Republic (Arabic: الجمهورية اللبنانية, al-Jumhūriyyah al-Lubnāniyyah; French: République libanaise), is a country in Western Asia. It is bordered by Syria to the north and east and Israel to the south, while Cyprus lies to its west across the Mediterranean Sea.

Geography: Lebanon's landscape is characterized by its mountainous terrain, particularly the Lebanon Mountains that run parallel to the coast. The Bekaa Valley, a fertile agricultural region, lies between the Lebanon Mountains and the Anti-Lebanon Mountains along the Syrian border. The country possesses a relatively short coastline along the Mediterranean Sea. Its capital and largest city is Beirut.

History: Lebanon's history is complex and marked by periods of independence, foreign rule, and internal conflict. The area was historically inhabited by the Phoenicians, a maritime civilization that flourished in the region for centuries. It later came under Roman, Arab, and Ottoman rule. After World War I, Lebanon became part of the French Mandate for Syria and Lebanon. It gained independence in 1943. The country experienced a devastating civil war from 1975 to 1990, leaving a lasting impact on its society and infrastructure. The presence of various religious groups, including Maronite Christians, Sunni and Shia Muslims, and Druze, has contributed to the country's diverse cultural and political landscape.

Politics: Lebanon operates as a parliamentary republic with a confessionalist system of government, where political power is shared among the different religious communities. The President is traditionally a Maronite Christian, the Prime Minister a Sunni Muslim, and the Speaker of Parliament a Shia Muslim. The National Assembly, or parliament, is responsible for electing the President and enacting legislation. Political instability and sectarian divisions have been persistent challenges in Lebanese politics.

Economy: Lebanon's economy is largely service-oriented, with significant sectors including banking, tourism, and real estate. Agriculture also plays a role, particularly in the Bekaa Valley. The country has faced significant economic challenges in recent years, including high levels of debt, unemployment, and inflation.

Culture: Lebanese culture is a blend of Eastern and Western influences, reflecting its diverse history and location. Arabic is the official language, but French and English are also widely spoken. The country is known for its cuisine, music, and literature.

Demographics: Lebanon is a multi-religious and multi-ethnic country. The population is comprised of various religious groups, including Muslims (Sunni, Shia, Druze), Christians (Maronite, Greek Orthodox, Melkite Catholic, Armenian Apostolic, and others), and small numbers of Jews and other religious minorities. The exact proportions of each group are subject to debate and have been politically sensitive.