Lebanon: Clashes reported amid ongoing protests in Beirut February 11 /update 88

Event

Clashes have been reported in Beirut on Tuesday, February 11, amid ongoing anti-government protests in several parts of the city. Police used water cannons and tear gas to stop stone-throwing protesters from reaching Parliament amid concrete barricades and road closures. Protesters gathered to protest against the vote of confidence in the government of Hassane Diab, which was scheduled to take place in Parliament today at 11:00 (local time). There are also reports of clashes between protesters and Amal movement and Hezbollah supporters.

Protests are likely to continue throughout Tuesday, as well as in the coming several days amid a heightened security presence. Associated transportation disruptions are likely to continue.

Context

Mass protests originally broke out on October 17, 2019, after the government approved tax hikes on tobacco products and a daily tax on messages and calls done via the WhatsApp mobile phone messenger application. The protests forced the government to revoke the tax proposal and since then the demands evolved into calling for the resignation of the government. On October 29, Prime Minister Saad Hariri announced his resignation, and on January 21, his successor former education minister Hassan Diab, was appointed.

Advice

Individuals in Lebanon are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid demonstrations, anticipate a heightened security presence and disruptions to transportation and business near protest sites, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.