The intensity of confrontations between riot police and a large number of young protesters opposing the economic and living conditions has escalated in front of the Tripoli government building.
The National News Agency reported that security forces continue to use water cannons and throw tear gas grenades to keep the demonstrators away from the entrance to the government building. The agency explained that the protesters are attempting to enter the premises and are throwing stones heavily at the outer courtyard, as well as tossing Molotov cocktails at security forces and military vehicles inside. One of the Molotov cocktails hit a water spraying vehicle, causing it to catch fire, which was quickly extinguished.
Additionally, the agency noted that the protesters managed to break the outer door of the government building without entering the premises thus far, while security forces are working to prevent them from doing so. It is noteworthy that 23 people have been reported injured as a result of these confrontations from both sides, with some transported by Red Cross vehicles and others treated on-site by Red Cross emergency and relief teams.
In a related context, the city of Sidon witnessed a march by several protesters that started from Alia Square and moved through the city's streets, where they attempted to block the intersection, but the army prevented them. This was in solidarity with Tripoli and in protest against the deteriorating living conditions, amid chants calling for going out to the streets.
