Tensions in Lebanon rise again

Tensions rose in Lebanon, as protestors burnt tires and blocked roads as part of a strike with the aim of toppling Prime Minister Fuad Siniora's Western-backed government.

Security forces were on high alert amid fears of violent clashes.

However, the government urged people to go about their business as usual.

Meanwhile, Hezbollah chief Sheik Hassan Nasrallah said it will be a “national and decisive day” in the on-going power struggle between the government and the Hezbollah-led opposition.

It is still unclear how long the strike is expected to last.

Opposition protestors have been besieging the main government building since December 2006, and the atmosphere of tension has been rising and falling since then.