Story perspectives

Beirut Protests Erupt Over New Taxes Amid Rising Costs

2/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

Protests erupted in Beirut on February 17, 2026, as demonstrators blocked streets after Lebanese Cabinet approved taxes to fund pay raises.
The government imposed a 300,000-pound gasoline tax and raised value-added tax from 11% to 12%.
Public anger grew with rising costs, especially during Ramadan.
The Cabinet discussed a disarmament plan for non-state militant groups, including Hezbollah, after a U.S.-brokered ceasefire, with the second phase expected to take four months.

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Story summary

Protests erupted in Beirut on February 17, 2026, as demonstrators blocked streets after Lebanese Cabinet approved taxes to fund pay raises.
The government imposed a 300,000-pound gasoline tax and raised value-added tax from 11% to 12%.
Public anger grew with rising costs, especially during Ramadan.
The Cabinet discussed a disarmament plan for non-state militant groups, including Hezbollah, after a U.S.-brokered ceasefire, with the second phase expected to take four months.