The Lebanese army warned supporters of Hezbollah against actions that could undermine civil peace, as protests in Beirut over government policy entered a second day, raising tensions in the capital.
Demonstrations involving hundreds of Hezbollah and Amal Movement supporters have taken place in central Beirut, including near government headquarters in Riad al-Solh Square, with protesters blocking roads and moving through areas such as Hamra, Raouche, Sakiet al-Janzir and the so-called Ring Bridge. The protests are aimed at pressuring the government over its decision to launch direct negotiations with Israel and to restrict weapons to state control in Beirut.
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam postponed a planned trip to the United States following the unrest.
“In light of the current domestic situation, and in order to fully carry out my duty to safeguard the security and unity of the Lebanese people, I have decided to postpone my trip to the United Nations and the United States to continue the government’s work from Beirut,” Salam said in a post on X.
The Lebanese army said in a statement it respects the right to peaceful expression but warned strongly against any actions that could endanger stability or civil peace.
“Any movement that could threaten stability, civil peace or lead to attacks on public or private property will not be tolerated,” the army said, adding it would act decisively to prevent any disruption to internal stability.
Protesters raised party flags and slogans rejecting what they described as “concessions and normalization with Israel,” insisting that “the resistance’s weapons are what liberate the land.”
Security coordination
Amid fears of escalation, President Joseph Aoun convened a security meeting at Baabda Palace attended by Defense Minister Maj. Gen. Michel Menassa and Interior Minister Ahmad al-Hajjar to review measures aimed at maintaining stability.
Salam also chaired a meeting at the Grand Serail with the defense and interior ministers, Lebanese Armed Forces Commander Gen. Rodolphe Haykal and Internal Security Forces chief Maj. Gen. Raed Abdallah to discuss the implementation of cabinet decisions to maintain security in Beirut.
The army and Internal Security Forces deployed heavily across central Beirut, including elite units, and set up checkpoints at key entry points including Hamra and Spears. Patrols were also conducted near displacement centers and in mixed sectarian neighborhoods.
Al-Hajjar said peaceful protest is permitted under the law but stressed that security forces have taken all necessary measures to protect state institutions and ensure the safety of Beirut and its residents. He called for “responsibility, awareness and national unity at this delicate stage.”
Ahead of a second rally on Saturday afternoon near the Grand Serail, security forces expanded their deployment across Beirut.
A security source said there would be “no tolerance for any attempt to undermine security or threaten civil peace,” describing stability as a “red line” and warning that any destabilization would be met with a firm response.
