28 Apr 2020 | 02:47 AM UTC
Lebanon: Anti-government protests reported in Tripoli April 27 /update 100
Anti-government protesters set fire to bank branches and block roads in Tripoli amid COVID-19 restrictions on April 27; further demonstrations possible in the near term
Event
Anti-government protesters gathered in Tripoli on Monday night (local time), April 27, to denounce recent policies of Lebanese banks and the collapsing Lebanese currency. Protesters marched through the city and disrupted traffic by setting up roadblocks and burning tires on the main motorways. According to media reports, several bank branches were also vandalized and set on fire with Molotov cocktails. The Lebanese banking association declared on April 27 that all banks would be shut in Tripoli from Tuesday, April 28, until security has been restored.
The recent protests took place despite the lockdown imposed to prevent the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
A heightened security presence and associated transportation disruptions are to be expected in the near term, particularly due to the COVID-19 restrictions.
Context
Mass protests originally broke out in Lebanon on October 17, 2019, after the Lebanese 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 demands have since evolved into calls for the resignation of the government. On October 29, Prime Minister Saad Hariri announced his resignation, and on January 21, 2020, former education minister Hassan Diab was appointed as his successor.
Advice
Individuals in Lebanon are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid demonstrations, anticipate a heightened security presence near protest sites, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.
