Lebanon: Activists plan to protest outside Palais de Justice in Beirut Jan. 19

Event

Activists plan to protest outside the Palais de Justice in Beirut from 13:00 Jan. 19 to demand justice for victims of the Beirut Port explosion. Protesters allege that officials are obstructing the investigation into the August 2020 blast that killed at least 200 people and wounded some 6,000 others. Dozens to hundreds of individuals could attend the demonstration.

Increased security and localized transport disruptions are likely near the Palais de Justice the afternoon of Jan. 19. Clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out, particularly if demonstrators are overly disruptive or if they ignore police orders to disperse.

Advice

Avoid the protest due to the potential for clashes. Heed the advice of security personnel and leave the area immediately at the first sign of any confrontation. Allow additional time to reach destinations near the affected area Jan. 19.