The Financial Times reported on the bleak economic situation in Lebanon, highlighting that politicians and bankers are contemplating the sale or lease of part of the country's substantial gold reserves held by its central bank. This move is seen as a potential strategy to help the country navigate its severe economic and financial crisis that has persisted since 2019. As global gold prices rise, the idea has garnered attention, yet it also faces backlash from the public who perceive it as a measure that benefits a few rather than the majority of Lebanese citizens.

Adding to the frustrations surrounding this proposal, many Lebanese view the suggestion to sell gold reserves as an unpopular solution. Local sentiment reflects a widespread distrust in political leaders, with civilians like Ahmed Zidan expressing their discontent and advocating for the return of funds misappropriated by those in power instead of resorting to selling national assets. The deep-rooted economic troubles in Lebanon have led to widespread hardship, making any discussions about handling state resources particularly sensitive and contentious among the populace.

Lebanon's central bank holds an impressive 280 tons of gold, constituting one of the largest reserves in the region, only surpassed by Saudi Arabia. The accumulation of these reserves began during the years of relative stability before the onset of the current financial turmoil. Moving forward, the government faces a pivotal choice: whether to liquidate these assets or seek alternative solutions to restore confidence and stability within the national economy, balancing immediate needs with long-term implications for national sovereignty and fiscal responsibility.