Deconstructing Lebanon's crisis

By B. Zarzur

Lebanon is a quagmire. With political turmoil, a pandemic, and an economic crisis, it would have been thought Lebanon has never been worse. Well, that couldn’t have been more wrong. On the 4th of august, explosions rocked the city of Beirut; and the repercussions of the disaster are devastating. Even now, almost a month after the explosions in port Beirut, the country’s situation has never been worse. Yet, the exact cause for the explosion is still not fully known, however a vicious cycle of underlying issues may be the cause for concern.  
For months Lebanon's situation has only plummeted. One thing affects the other. The political situation in Lebanon has always been dire, as there is no fine line between religion and merit. Protests and riots in October (2019) have forced the government out but aggravated the situation even more. To make matters worse, on the 3rd of august, Nassif Hitti, the Lebanese foreign minister signed his resignation letter, as to him, there is no solution to the “failing state”, "If they don't come together around the interests of the Lebanese people and save them, then the ship, God forbid, will sink with everyone on board." In Lebanon, politics and religion walk hand in hand, making it difficult to come to beneficial solutions for the Lebanese.  Unprofessional and immature politicians lead to a crippling economy.  Inflation rates in Lebanon have rocketed. The Lebanese coin has lost over 75% of its value and the country has defaulted months ago. With the Covid – 19 pandemic, the situation has only worsened – when businesses shut down, the economy follows. With the dollar now on the black market, for how long must this go on?  
The explosions have inevitably shattered Lebanon into pieces. Over 250 000 citizens roam streets with nowhere to go, and nothing to eat. Lebanon has run out of resources and is now in an emergency state. As the port of Beirut, where things were delivered, is now rubble, the Lebanese are in a distressing situation, to say the least. However, on a more positive note, action is slowly being taken, organizations such as the Lebanese red cross prevent the government from manipulating donations and are helping those in need.  
Besides the aftermath of explosions, more help is needed. The solution would be to educate politicians correctly so that the same mistakes aren't repeated. Involving religions with politics has clearly not worked out; and as Lebanon is due for election this year, it is arguable that these two things should not be un any way linked in the governmental foundation of Lebanon. Reelecting people in power would be the start.  External help is very much needed, whether financial or resource donations such as Masks or medical supplies. However, even if these measures are taken, is Lebanon “in too deep”? Will they be able to push through this? The question is not when they will recover, but rather if they will recover.