Lebanon: Demonstration scheduled in Beirut for July 11 /update 125

Event

The Lebanese Communist Party (LCP) have called for an anti-government protest in Beirut on Saturday, July 11, to demand the formation of a new transitional government. Demonstrators will reportedly gather at Riad El Solh Square at 17:30 (local time) before marching to Banque du Liban at 18:00. The protest march will likely be well attended and clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.

A heightened security presence is to be anticipated in Beirut in the near and medium-term and transportation disruptions should be expected near the protest site.

Context 

Recent protests have been denouncing ongoing economic hardship in Lebanon, the fall in the value of the Lebanese pound, and the rise in the cost of goods. The value of the Lebanese pound hit a record low on the black market on June 30, as the government raised the price of bread and announced that soldiers would stop receiving meat in their meals. Supermarkets have been pictured with empty shelves and retailers have closed stores following a rush to purchase goods, such as candles, flour, and yeast, amid rising prices.

Advice

Individuals in Lebanon are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.