4 August 2021 will mark the one-year anniversary of the 2020 Beirut Port Explosion, and commemorative ceremonies have been planned at the Port of Beirut. Activists have also planned protests demanding justice for those affected, and accountability from those at fault. There will likely be heightened security due to the potential for unrest.
On 17 March, clashes between protesters and police have occurred as protesters blocked roads with burning tires and attempted to storm the Economic Ministry building. Protests in Lebanon have been occurring regularly and escalated as the value of currency hit an all-time low. Protests resumed following clashes with the police, but further clashes are likely. Further protests will likely occur in the coming days.
On 29 December, students at the American University of Beirut have planned protests beginning at 11:00 local time near the university’s main gate. The protests are against an increase in the university’s tuition fees. Protests have the potential to turn violent, as one on 19 December resulted in vandalized banks and clashes with security forces.
On 17 December, heavy rainfall is forecast to continue in Beirut and Tyre, and continue into 18 December when it begins to subside. Heavy rainfall on 16 December previously caused flooding and severe disruptions to traffic which is expected to continue until after rainfall subsides. Flash floods and landslides may result.
On 16 December, members of the General Confederation of Lebanese Workers (CGTL) have called for nationwide demonstrations to protest the government’s decision to reduce subsidies on essential goods and demand the formation of a new government capable of implementing economic reforms. Large crowds are expected to gather due to CGTL having over 200,000 members.
From 5:00 local time on 14 November until 5:00 on 30 November, Lebanon will impose a nationwide lockdown to limit the spread of COVID-19. Measures include closing all public institutions except for those providing essential services, limiting public and private transportation, and imposing a curfew from 21:00-05:00.
A rally is scheduled to take place in and around the capital on 12 September at 16:00 local time in front of the Ministry of Justice. They are scheduled to reach a restaurant in Furn el-Chebbak by 17:00 before proceeding to Baabda Presidential Palace. Expect a forcible police presence to disperse protesters.
In the aftermath of two major explosions in Beirut killing 100 and leaving over 4,000 wounded, it has been reported as of August 5 that the release of toxic gases due to the blast poses a health risk. The explosions, reportedly caused by large volumes of ammonium nitrate being stored in a warehouse left several areas without electricity and damaged some embassies. The number of casualties is expected to rise as search and rescue operations continue.