Political tension between the western-backed government of Lebanese Prime Minister Fuat Siniora and the Shiite Hezbollah party in opposition is fuelling fears of a new civil war.

Five days of campaigning and protests from Hezbollah followers demanding the resignation of the Lebanese government has culminated in street clashes and the death of a Shiite demonstrator, whose funeral on Tuesday drew thousands.

Violence between Sunnites and Shiites over the last two nights has left 21 injured.

Michel Suleyman, the Lebanese chief of staff, warned the government that the daily rallies and revolts may become uncontrollable at any time.

According to local news media, Gen. Suleyman said that the political impasse mixed with recurring security incidents with a “sectarian” character were a threat to stability.

The general has concerns over the impartiality of the military as tensions rise. He warned that in these circumstances the army would not be able to maintain complete control over the nation, reporters said.

Pleas for moderation came from Siniora, unwilling or unable to leave his office for security reasons.

Meanwhile, on Tuesday the Siniora government received words of support from leaders in Paris and Berlin.

A joint declaration from both leaders – German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Jacques Chirac – pressed the Syrian government to end its support of forces “which want to destabilize Lebanon and the region.”