Lebanon: Protesters block roads in Beirut July 6 /update 122

Event

Protesters blocked several roads in Beirut on Monday, July 6, amid further demonstrations against the deteriorating financial situation in Lebanon. The demonstrators created roadblocks across the capital using burning tires and other items. Various unions and other groups also gathered across the capital on Monday. Members of the taxi drivers' union gathered outside the Interior Ministry in the Sanayeh area of Beirut. Meanwhile, laid-off teachers also held a sit-in demonstration in front of the Ministry of Education and laid-off cement workers brought their mixers with them to a gathering in Martyrs' Square.

Further demonstrations are likely in the near to medium-term, with a heightened security presence and transportation disruptions to be expected near protest sites.

Context 

Recent protests have been denouncing ongoing economic hardship in Lebanon, the fall in the value of the Lebanese pound, and the rise in the cost of goods. The value of the Lebanese pound hit a record low on the black market on June 30, as the government raised the price of bread and announced that soldiers would stop receiving meat in their meals. Supermarkets have been pictured with empty shelves and retailers have closed stores following a rush to purchase goods, such as candles, flour, and yeast, amid rising prices.

Advice

Individuals in Beirut are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.