Lebanon Regime Resignation Protests Turn Bloody... 1 Dead, Over 170 Injured
Hassan Diab, Lebanese Prime Minister, Proposes Early General Election
[Asia Economy International Department Reporter] The U.S. Embassy in Lebanon issued a statement on the 8th (local time) supporting peaceful protests triggered by the massive anti-government demonstrations following the Beirut explosion disaster and urging political reform in Lebanon.
Through Twitter on the same day, the U.S. Embassy stated, "We support the right of the Lebanese people to peaceful protest and call on all parties involved to refrain from violence."
The embassy added, "The Lebanese people have suffered too much," and said, "They deserve leaders who respond to demands for transparency and accountability and who change course by listening to the voices of the people."
Lebanese Prime Minister Hassan Diab proposed an early general election to resolve the chaotic political situation.
Meanwhile, on the same day, a large crowd protesting against the government in connection with the Beirut explosion clashed with police, resulting in one death and over 170 injuries.
The protesters designated the day as "Saturday of Revenge" and insisted that justice must be established for the victims of the explosion. They also shouted slogans such as "The people want the downfall of the regime," and some held signs targeting the government that read, "Step down, you are all murderers."
The protesters threw stones at the police, and some attempted to approach the parliament building. The police fired tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse the crowd, leading to physical clashes.
Lebanese media, citing the Ministry of Health, reported that the death toll from the explosion is at least 158, with more than 6,000 injured.
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