In a dramatic escalation of civil unrest, protesters in Lebanon set fire to a government building on Thursday night. The act was a culmination of growing frustration over the country’s stringent COVID-19 lockdown measures and a rapidly deteriorating economy.
The nationwide lockdown, implemented to curb the surge in coronavirus cases, has intensified the hardships for many Lebanese citizens. With businesses closed and movement restricted, countless individuals are struggling to make ends meet in an economy already on the brink of collapse.
“We’ve been pushed to the edge,” said one protester. “The lockdown is killing us more than the virus. We need to work to survive.”
The Lebanese economy has been in freefall, plagued by hyperinflation, a devalued currency, and soaring unemployment rates. The lockdown has exacerbated these issues, leaving many without access to basic necessities.
Thursday’s protests reflect a deep-seated anger towards the government’s handling of both the pandemic and the economic crisis. Demonstrators are demanding immediate reforms and assistance to alleviate their suffering.
Analysts warn that without swift government action, the situation may spiral further out of control, leading to increased instability in the region.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
