Lebanon: Demonstrators gather in Tripoli and Saida October 24

Event

Demonstrators gathered in Tripoli and Saida on Saturday, October 24, to denounce controversial caricatures of the Prophet Muhammad. In Tripoli, protesters marched through central streets, and in Saida a car convoy was organized that circulated the city, along with a rally in the downtown area of the city.

The rallies follow a beheading in France of a teacher who allegedly showed cartoons of the Prophet Muhammad during his class. French Prime Minister Emmanuel Macron has called the teacher a quiet hero, and his comments prompted the demonstrations. Seven people have been charged over the death of the teacher.

Further protesters regarding the issue are possible in Lebanon in the near term. A heightened security presence and associated disruptions are to be anticipated in the vicinity of protest sites.

Advice

Those in Lebanon are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.