19 Oct 2019 | 05:18 AM UTC
Spain: Lebanese solidarity protest in Madrid October 19
Protest due in Madrid on October 19 in solidarity with Lebanon; heightened security presence and associated transportation disruptions expected
Event
Members of the Lebanese diaspora have called for a protest in Madrid on Saturday, October 19, in solidarity with the ongoing opposition demonstrations in Lebanon. Participants plan to meet at 12:00 (local time) at the Paseo de la Castellana.
A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are expected near the protest site.
Context
On October 16, the Lebanese government approved tax hikes on tobacco products as part of its 2020 federal budget. Information Minister Jama Jarrah announced a 20 percent daily tax for individuals calling via the WhatsApp mobile phone messenger application on October 17. However, the announcement sparked spontaneous nationwide protests on October 17, forcing the government to revoke the tax proposal. Prime Minister Said Hariri subsequently declared a 72-hour deadline for political parties to solve the country's ongoing economic crisis.
Advice
Individuals in Madrid are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.
