Beyond Beirut, Islamists Advance

Attacks on bars and alcohol vendors are threatening Lebanon’s vibrant nightlife.

By Mona Alami

"BEIRUT, Jun 8, 2012 (IPS) - Cities in the North and South of Lebanon have witnessed a rise in the number of attacks targeting bars and alcohol vendors, a relatively new phenomenon in a country famous for its vibrant club scene......

For journalist Kassem Kassir, the incidents -- whether in the South or North -- are symptomatic of the growing Islamisation of Lebanese society.

"There is a rise in religiosity among both Shias and Sunnis, which is expressed in different ways depending on the region. The attacks have very different signatures in the North and South and are not necessarily the acts of organised factions," he said, though he acknowledged he has heard of the Amr Bil Maarouf wu Nahi al-Mounkar......"