Lebanese leaders agree political deal

Updated: 17:18, Wednesday, 21 May 2008

Rival Lebanese leaders have signed a deal to end 18 months of political deadlock, pulling their country away from the brink of civil war.

1 of 1 Lebanon Crisis sparked street battles
Lebanon
Crisis sparked street battles

Rival Lebanese leaders have signed a deal to end 18 months of political deadlock, pulling their country away from the brink of civil war.

The Western-backed government and the pro-Syrian opposition arrived at the deal after days of talks in Qatar.

Under the deal, the opposition - led by the Hezbollah political and militant group - will have the power of veto in a new cabinet of national unity.

It also paves the way for parliament to elect a new president.

The crisis turned violent two weeks ago when street battles between armed supporters of the factions left at least 65 people dead.

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