Lebanon’s Government Quits After the Deadly Blast That Has Triggered Public Anger

Lebanon’s Prime Minister announced his government’s resignation the previous day admitting that corruption in the country is « bigger than the state » itself.

7 days from now, Lebanon experienced the most powerful blast that killed some 200 people, wounded six thousands, caused destruction across half the city and left up to 300,000 people homeless.

According to a BBC report, the blast has caused damage worth $3 billion, with the country’s collective loss estimated at $15 billion.

Under pressure from all sides, the Lebanese Prime Minister Hassan Diab made the announcement in a national TV on Monday evening, and stepped down amid public mounting anger over the massive explosion that occurred last Tuesday.

The country’s leaders were accused of culpability by an important number of people and thousands of anti-government protesters threw stones in central Beirut where Lebanon’s parliament is situated.

« The entire regime needs to change. It will make no difference if there is a new government… We need quick elections. »

Joe Haddad, a Beirut engineer, told Reuters.

Besides, the US Embassy in Lebanon tweeted its support for the protesters –who have taken to the streets for two days straight-.

The Lebanese people have suffered too much and deserve to have leaders who listen to them and change course to respond to popular demands for transparency and accountability.

Hassan Diab has also said the massive explosion was the result of the donation of 2.750 tonnes of ammonium nitrate stored for six years in a warehouse in the city’s port.