Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri submits resignation amid ongoing protests throughout the country; Citizens demand a complete government refresh; Hariri: I have reached a dead-end; Fear of civil war continues to linger throughout Lebanon.
On Tuesday, Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri submitted his resignation amid the ongoing protests throughout Lebanon for all government officials to step down. These protests have been taking place for almost two weeks, demanding a complete government refresh due to corruption and inactivity to improve the economy. Not only were they not taking steps to improve the economy, but they were aiming to abusively tax citizens on items like a free electronic communication app.
Prior to his resignation, Hariri had hoped to bring a last-minute change to the economy, but the people had seen enough. Via television, Hariri stated, “I have reached a dead end…I will submit my resignation.” He would also add, “Jobs come and go, but what’s important is the country, no one’s bigger than the nation.”
While protesters are celebrating this news, they have no intentions of stopping with Hariri. Protesters stated, “The public has held its ground for 13 days and managed to topple the government. Congratulations to the protesters; we hope our demands will be answered…This is the beginning of our victory. We will continue until our demands are reached.”
Though he has submitted his resignation, Hariri is now reportedly working to hit the refresh button on the Lebanese government. Sources close to him told the press, “Things are going to get worse if political stances remain the same.” This is where fear of a lingering civil war kicks in. The people are demanding a complete government overthrow, but Hariri hasn’t guaranteed that specifically. Additionally, Hezbollah, Iran’s proxy and the terror organization with a strong political influence in Lebanon, refuses to have their Foreign Minister ousted in the outcome of these protests. Members of the terror organization would also clash with government protesters in their attempt to re-open the streets that are closed off.
In addition to the civil unrest and ongoing protests, Lebanon’s central bank has announced this week that the nation is days away from an ‘economic collapse’.
