19 Sep 2022 | 05:24 AM UTC
Lebanon: Activists plan to protest outside Palais de Justice in Beirut Sept. 19
Activists to protest outside Palais de Justice in Beirut, Lebanon, Sept. 19. Increased security, localized transport disruptions likely.
Event
Activists plan to protest outside the Palais de Justice in Beirut from 10:30 Sept. 19 to show support for individuals who carried out robberies at banks to obtain their frozen deposits. Dozens to hundreds of individuals could attend the demonstration.
Increased security and localized transport disruptions are likely near the Palais de Justice the morning of Sept. 19. Clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out, particularly if demonstrators are overly disruptive or if they ignore police orders to disperse.
Context
Lebanon has been mired in an economic crisis for over two years since the value of its currency collapsed, and banks imposed severe withdrawal restrictions. Restrictions on withdrawals have led to much of the population being unable to pay for basic necessities. Consequentially, there has been a wave of armed robberies, with perpetrators demanding their savings be withdrawn. At least 11 such incidents took place Sept. 16; additional incidents are almost certain to occur.
Advice
Avoid the protest due to the potential for clashes. Heed the advice of security personnel. Allow additional time if traveling through the affected area Sept. 19.