Lebanon: Tenants plan nationwide protests Jan. 9

Tenants plan to demonstrate nationwide from 16:00 Jan. 9 against new regulations regarding commercial leases. Protesters claim that they face the risk of eviction and high rental rates. Organizers have announced that the main gathering will be at Sassine Square in Beirut. Associated demonstrations will also likely occur at public squares across the country.

Increased security and localized transport disruptions are likely near gathering sites, especially near Sassine Square in Beirut, through the evening of Jan. 9. Clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out, particularly if demonstrators ignore police orders to disperse.