The center of the Lebanese capital, Beirut, has turned into an arena of confrontations between the security forces and demonstrators resentful of the country's political power, and demanding its departure.
Thousands of demonstrators flocked to the center of the Lebanese capital on Saturday under the slogan "Day of Reckoning", demanding punishment for those responsible for the massive bombing in the Beirut port, which turned their capital into a ruinous arena, resulting in nearly 160 dead and thousands of wounded.
The demonstrators, in turn, flocked to central Beirut from several areas, amid tight security measures.
A mass march took place from the severely damaged Mar Mikhael Street to the center of Beirut, holding a large banner with the names of those killed in the explosion.
Soon, clashes were recorded between security forces and protesters on the road leading to the entrance to Parliament. The youths threw stones at the security forces, who responded with tear gas canisters in an attempt to disperse them.
The demonstrators condemned what they described as neglect and corruption in state institutions, and demanded the resignation of the government.
For its part, the Lebanese Army Command called for restraint and peaceful expression, and to avoid attacks on private and public property.
The Internal Security Forces also demanded from the demonstrators not to attack its members, who said they were carrying out their duty to maintain security.
It is noteworthy that the death toll from the explosion rose to 158 dead, more than six thousand wounded, and twenty-one missing.