Protesters blocked the International Baddawi Highway in both directions in response to the extension of the lockdown period and the deterioration of their living conditions.
The National News Agency reported that the protesters placed car tires, garbage containers, and stones in the middle of the highway, forcing those traveling from Tripoli towards Minyeh, Akkar, and the northern borders, as well as in the opposite direction, to take alternative routes. These alternative roads also experienced heavy traffic due to their narrowness and inability to accommodate the density of vehicles and trucks passing through.
Earlier last night, Tripoli in northern Lebanon witnessed protests against the extension of the lockdown and poor economic conditions, where several citizens took action demanding the cancellation of fines imposed on violators of the lockdown decision. Army units intervened to control the situation and restore calm. After the army units withdrew, the protesters proceeded to the Tripoli Serail and threw stones at the building, causing damage to several parked cars in the courtyard. Security forces intervened to confront the protesters and worked to disperse them.
Protesters also blocked the Minyeh International Highway at the entrance to the town of Bhanin near Lebanon's Green Ovens, in both directions, in protest against the poor living conditions and the decision to extend the general mobilization until February 8th.
Lebanon is experiencing several crises, starting with the stalled government formation for months due to political disagreements and the economic crisis resulting from the lockdown, in addition to the unprecedented spread of the coronavirus in the country.
