CNN | Ben Wedeman, Ghazi Balkiz and Joshua Berlinger | January 20, 2020
Beirut, Lebanon (CNN)Violent clashes between police and anti-government protesters gripped sections of Beirut Sunday night, as part of a “week of rage” declared by protesters that has paralyzed much of the Lebanese capital.
Protesters were seen attacking bank branches and smashing the windows of one prominent cell phone company.
Some threw Molotov cocktails and rocks at police, who attempted to disperse protesters with tear gas. As clashes continued, security forces deployed water cannons and rubber bullets.
Hundreds of people have been injured in the chaos, according the Lebanese Red Cross, which comes after months of mostly nonviolent demonstrations over the country’s continued economic failings.
The banking system has all but collapsed and Lebanese citizens have a monthly withdrawal limit worth around $200. The nation’s currency has lost 60% of its value in the months of tumult, as prices soar and people are left unable to pay their regular bills.
Lebanon’s President, Michel Aoun, called on the country’s army and security forces to impose order.
Protesters declared the “week of rage” on Tuesday, angry that the government has failed to stymie Lebanon’s descent into economic crisis. Prime Minister Saad Hariri resigned in late October in response to the initial protests, but Lebanese lawmakers have been unable to form a legitimate government in the three months since to tackle the economic issues still plaguing the country.