Fresh clashes reported in Beirut

(original photos contributed to this blog by Abdul Latif Fawaz from Beirut)

Press TV reports:

Fresh clashes have reportedly erupted between supporters of rival political camps in Lebanon after a brief lull on Friday evening.

Fierce armed clashes broke out between supporters of the Lebanese government and the opposition in the neighborhoods of al-Jadida, Kornish al-Mazra and Cola Bridge.

Gunmen also attacked the residence of Omar Karami, the former Lebanese Prime Minister and a supporter of the opposition in the city of Tripoli.

Hariri and Druze leader Walid Jumblatt are under the army's protection at their homes in western Beirut.Prime Minister Fuad Siniora and several ministers are also holed up in a downtown office, surrounded by troops and police.

The unrest has also spread to Sidon, 48 kilometers (30 miles) south of Beirut, as armed clashes broke out late on Friday.

On Friday, the UAE evacuated its nationals via Syria, amid deteriorating situation in the country.

Meanwhile the Lebanese minister of Youth and Sports denied the reports that Premier Fuad Siniora is stepping down and said his government is legitimate and it will continue its work.