Crisis in Lebanon

Sir, – The bizarre bank siege in Beirut, when a depositor demanded his own money at gunpoint, further highlights the dysfunction of the Lebanese state (World, August 17th).

Lebanon’s crash has been frightening. Corruption has thrived at all levels of government for over 30 years. Although not immune to it, Hizbullah has conveniently turned a blind eye as the political elite squabble over the spoils. It is a trade-off that has suited the party as it extends its reach into just about every facet of Lebanese society.

Bread queues are now the norm. Some Lebanese citizens are joining Palestinian and Syrian refugees in small boats attempting the illegal short sea crossing to Cyprus to escape hunger and poverty. As the state security system disintegrates, human traffickers sense their opportunity.

Following years of personal experience providing humanitarian assistance inside Lebanon, it is clear that addressing the needs of the population must be linked to external pressure on those who govern the country.

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Ireland has traditionally viewed the “Leb” through the operating sphere of the Irish Defence Forces serving with Unifil in the south of the country. By doing so, the bigger picture has been missed as has the Irish Government’s ability to bring about notable change through the EU and UN.

For the remainder of its term on the UN Security Council, the Irish Government must inject significant momentum to support Lebanon during this critical period. Targeted sanctions against those blocking change in addition to providing financial support to the Lebanese army and state security forces have to be the way forward.

The consequences of not acting will further negatively impact the lives of ordinary Lebanese and provide the unchallenged wasteland that Hizbullah and its sponsors ultimately seek. – Yours, etc,

COLIN LEE,

Ballinteer,

Dublin 16.