Widespread protests erupted across Lebanon in response to increased taxes and fuel prices, as the government seeks to secure revenue for public sector salary increases.
On Wednesday, significant protests took place across several Lebanese regions, opposing the recent tax hikes and increases in fuel prices. The Lebanese government has stated that these new measures are necessary to generate revenue to finance recent salary increases for public sector employees and to maintain the financial balance of the country's treasury. Specifically, the cabinet decided to raise the value-added tax from 11% to 12% and to increase the price of gasoline by about 300,000 Lebanese pounds (around $3.30) for a 20-liter canister.
Following the government's announcement, taxi drivers led a series of road blockades, including cutting off the Circular Highway in Beirut with their vehicles to protest against the rise in gasoline prices. Tensions escalated when clashes occurred between the Lebanese army and protesters as efforts were made to clear the road at the critical "Ring" bridge in the capital. Similar disruptions were reported in other areas, such as drivers blocking the road in Khaldeh, south of Beirut, and truck drivers blocking routes in Tripoli, northern Lebanon, demonstrating widespread dissatisfaction with the new price increases.
In addition to the demonstrations on the streets, trade union members organized a sit-in at the entrance of the Port of Tripoli coinciding with a visit from Prime Minister Nawaf Salaam. This highlights the growing unrest within various sectors of Lebanon’s society, emphasizing the anger and frustration over the government's measures during a time of economic hardship. The protests point to a concerning trend as citizens react against policies they perceive as exacerbating an already dire economic situation, raising questions about the government's approach to managing financial crises in the country.
