The instability of Lebanon's sectarian balance enables…

The instability of Lebanon's sectarian balance enables hostile states or groups to use Lebanon as a staging ground for attacks against Israel.

The PLO, following its expulsion from Jordan in September 1970, sets up its major base of operations in southern Lebanon from which it attacks northern Israel.

The presence of more than two hundred and thirty-five thousand Palestinians is a source of tension and conflict in Lebanon, as it had been in Jordan.

Palestinians have few rights, and most work for low wages in poor conditions.

Palestinian guerrillas continue to carry out attacks against Israel.

Israel counters with raids, primarily into southern Lebanon.

The Lebanese government seeks to restrict the activities of the Palestinian guerrillas, which lead to sporadic fighting between the Lebanese army and the guerrillas.

Yasser Arafat becomes commander in chief of the Palestinian Revolutionary Forces in 1971.