Lebanon: Activists plan to protest outside Palais de Justice in Beirut Sept. 21

Event

Activists plan to protest outside the Palais de Justice in Beirut from 11:00 Sept. 21. Protesters are demanding the release of individuals who turned to bank robberies to obtain their frozen deposits. Dozens to hundreds of individuals could attend the demonstration.

Increased security and localized transport disruptions are likely near the Palais de Justice through the afternoon of Sept. 21. Clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out, particularly if demonstrators are overly disruptive or ignore police orders to disperse.

Context

Lebanon has been mired in an economic crisis for over two years since the value of its currency collapsed, and banks imposed severe withdrawal restrictions. Restrictions on withdrawals have led to much of the population being unable to pay for basic necessities. Consequentially, there has been a wave of armed robberies, with perpetrators demanding their savings be withdrawn. At least 11 such incidents took place Sept. 16; additional incidents are almost certain to occur.

Advice

Avoid the protest due to the potential for clashes. Heed the advice of security personnel. Allow additional time if traveling through the affected area Sept. 21.