Lebanese Caretaker Interior Minister Raya el-Hassan has held both the country’s political leaders and anti-government protesters responsible for the deadlock.
In remarks to the press after attending a truncated military parade at the defense ministry in Yarze, Hassan said: “I am concerned over the developments in the country. We haven’t yet reached common ground with the protesters.”
She blamed “the two sides” for the stalemate.
Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri resigned on Oct. 29 following an unprecedented wave of demonstrations against proposed taxes on WhatsApp calls that turned into a condemnation of the political elite.
On Friday, the protesters held a boisterous parade at downtown Beirut’s Martyrs Square.
“The parade in Yarze is the parade of the Republic and it was an honor to attend it. Yet a segment of the population has revolted to ask for its rights, and I do understand their grievances,” Hassan said.
She added that protesters “have the right to demonstrate and carry out a civilian parade.”
Asked about on-and-off road closures by the demonstrators, Hassan said that since day one her instructions against the use of force have been clear.
“But if roads must be opened, then appropriate measures must be taken,” she added.
