Lebanese President: Freedom of opinion must not turn into chaos and riots

Demonstrators block a road in Beirut.

À EPA

Lebanese President, General Michel Aoun, affirmed yesterday that "expression of opinion is secured for all, but it should not turn into chaos and riots," calling on the security authorities not to be lenient in order to preserve the safety of citizens and public stability.

At the beginning of the meeting of the Higher Defense Council, according to what the Lebanese presidency published on Twitter, “The main objective of this meeting is to discuss the security situation, especially with the advent of the summer season, when the tourist season is expected to be promising with the arrival of the scattered Lebanese. Abroad".

He pointed out that "what happened in the past few days in front of the fuel stations is unacceptable, and the humiliation of citizens is unacceptable, under any consideration, and all concerned should work to prevent the recurrence of these practices, especially that a new schedule for fuel prices has been issued, which would alleviate the crisis."

He pointed out that the closure of roads in front of citizens causes great suffering to them, in addition to what they suffer as a result of the difficult financial and economic conditions.

Aoun stressed the need to take measures to correct the situation at the airport, after complaints were received about difficulties and congestion, especially when conducting PCR checks.

In turn, the caretaker prime minister, Hassan Diab, said at the beginning of the meeting that there is a difference between objecting and attacking people, their property and livelihood.

He added that "blocking roads does not express the people. The blocking of roads happens against people. The chaos, breaking cars and attacking the army are not an expression of objection."

Diab continued, "I understand the pressures you are facing during this difficult period. I understand the situation of the military, who is being asked to confront those who raise slogans of objection to the living, social and financial conditions."

Yesterday, the Supreme Defense Council held a meeting at Baabda Palace, at the invitation of the President of the Republic, to discuss the security situation and the latest developments in Lebanon.

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