Polls open in Lebanon

Polls opened Sunday to elect a new 128-member parliament in Lebanon, in what was described as a decisive moment to determine the country's future alliances.

The election pits the current Western-backed ruling majority against the Lebanese Islamic Resistance Movement Hezbollah's coalition.

Some 587 candidates are expected to compete in a tight race for the favour of Lebanon's 3.2 million eligible votes.

The voting started at 7 am (0400 GMT) in some 5,200 polling stations across Lebanon and is scheduled to close at 7 pm (1600 GMT).

According to Lebanese army sources some 55,000 soldiers and internal security police have been deployed across the country to ensure a safe atmosphere for voters.

More than 200 international observers are overseeing the election.

Initial results are expected to be announced officially on Monday.