EU adopts new framework for Lebanese sanctions
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The European Union on Friday announced it had adopted a legal framework for new sanctions against Lebanese individuals responsible for obstructing or undermining democracy and the rule of law in the country.
The big picture: Lebanon has been without a working government since August of last year, when Prime Minister Hassan Diab resigned after a deadly explosion in Beirut.
- "Protesters blamed the disaster, which killed more than 211 people, injured 6,000 and left roughly 250,000 homeless, on the ruling elite's corruption," Axios' Dave Lawler writes.
What they're saying: "The EU remains committed to helping Lebanon and its people to overcome the present challenges and is ready to use the different instruments at its disposal to do so," the EU said in a statement.
- "It is, however, of the utmost importance that the Lebanese leadership put aside their differences and work together to form a government and enact the measures required to steer the country towards a sustainable recovery."
Details: The EU did not specify what individuals would be sanctioned. A source told Al Jazeera that the member states will enter a discussion to agree on who will be listed.
- "Sanctions consist of a travel ban to the EU and an asset freeze for persons, and an asset freeze for entities. In addition, EU persons and entities are forbidden from making funds available to those listed," the EU explained.
- All 27 member states must vote unanimously to impose the sanctions, per Al Jazeera.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen praised Europe's decision, saying in a joint statement that "it is critical that Lebanese leaders heed their people’s repeated calls for an end to widespread corruption and government inaction and form a government that can initiate the reforms critical to address the country’s dire situation."
- "Sanctions are intended, among other things, to compel changes in behavior, and promote accountability for corrupt actors and leaders who have engaged in malign behavior," they added.
- "We welcome the EU’s use of this powerful tool to promote accountability on a global scale."
