RIP

https://t.co/JS2YTv0fN4 https://t.co/kgLWrQzUgy

- Fire breaks out in Virgin Megastore building in downtown Beirut.

Civil defense announced in a statement on Saturday evening that two of its vehicles, a bulldozer and a truck, operating free of charge in the Beirut Central District near the Le Gray Hotel, were exposed at exactly 17:27 hours today to fire by some demonstrators. (1/2) https://t.co/fLF5odNgZr

They regretted that those calling for change in the country would set fire to equipment used voluntarily to remove the debris from Beirut in wake of the tragic blast that occurred at its port, while reserving the right to pursue the perpetrators and follow up on the matter. (2/2)

The PM Diab proposed early parliamentary elections, but what good would this do with a secterian law that distributes the seats of parliament between sects and 1/2 each for Muslims and Christians?

- The ministry of economy got burnt. https://t.co/jgVIhahGEL

Beirut 1982:
"Beirut is a demilitarized city"

A slogan adopted by the Israeli occupation army and the multinational forces in 1982. https://t.co/mgZIyJvSrp

- Martyrs square is empty now except for a few protesters.

- Only reporters and live trucks are here.

- USA: We support them in their right to peaceful protest, and encourage all involved to refrain from violence. https://t.co/JP14MPzGxV

- Protesters are taking documents from the ministries, without interference of the security forces at all !!!

- The protests are now mainly near street crossings and ministries.

Chaos is everywhere.

- Many protesters retreated towards Al Saifi towards Al Kataeb HQ.

Security forces are pushing them back, with tear gas being deployed.

- Relative calm now near the parliament.

- Internal Security forces have arrested 5 rioters, claiming 4 had drugs on them. https://t.co/6uu0jcbXFX