The International Support Group for Lebanon has called for the swift formation of a new government as it expressed concern over growing tensions in the country.
The ISG said it met in Beirut on Thursday to take stock of the situation in the country, more than seven months after the tragic explosion at the Beirut port.
It “noted the precipitating socio-economic crisis in Lebanon, compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic.”
“It expressed its concern at the increasing tensions in the country, including the recent protests.”
The Group called for demonstrations to remain peaceful and for human rights to be protected.
“It further called for full accountability and justice to be served, through credible, transparent and swift investigations of the Beirut port explosion” and the killing of prominent Hezbollah critic Lokman Slim.
“The ISG recalled with consternation that seven months have elapsed since the resignation of the last government, inhibiting Lebanon’s ability to address its deepening and increasingly complex political, social, financial, economic and institutional challenges, and to meet the legitimate needs and aspirations of the Lebanese people.”
Lebanese protesters have been recently setting up new roadblocks to vent anger over political inaction in the face of deepening poverty.
The country has been mired in economic crisis, which has brought surging unemployment and spiraling prices while the currency has plunged to a new low to the dollar on the black market.
Yet the deeply divided political class has failed to agree on a new cabinet since the massive Aug. 4 explosion in Beirut port that killed more than 200 people and led to the resignation of Hassan Diab’s government.
“The ISG reiterated its urgent call for Lebanon’s leaders to delay no longer the formation of a fully empowered government capable of meeting the country’s urgent needs and implementing critical reforms.”
