Lebanon forms a commission to deal with firearms

Lebanon Information Minister Tarek Mitri briefed the media following Wednesday’s cabinet session at the Grand Serail

Firearms

The ministers agreed to form a commission headed by Prime Minister Saad Hariri, to reach a solution to the issue of the widespread possession of firearms among citizens, urging all parties to lift political cover off those behind the security breeches.

The commission, which also includes Defense Minister Elias al-Murr and Interior Minister Ziad Baroud, will submit to the cabinet a report on the issue with recommendations at a later time.

This comes after clashes broke out in Borj Abi Haidar between supporters of the Association of Islamic Charitable Projects – also known as Al-Ahbash – and Hezbollah, leading to the death of three people, including Hezbollah official Mohammad Fawwaz.

Al-Ahbash is a Sunni pro-Syrian group and describes itself as a charitable organization promoting Islamic culture.

The ministers addressed the clashes in Bourj Abi Haidar, and called for tightening security, as the clashes were caused by an increased use of arms by parties.”

Hospitalization fee

The cabinet took a decision to adopt a standard hospitalization fee between hospitals and the Social Security, where the patient will not be responsible for paying additional fees charged by the hospital.

Social Security deficit

The cabinet approved granting a 50 billion L.L. payment in advance to help cover the Social Security deficit.

Power cuts

Hariri requested Energy Minister Gebran Bassil to prepare a temporary solution to the crisis.

In recent weeks, residents in South, North Lebanon and Beirut have blocked roads with burning tires to protest electricity shortages.