EU Warns Lebanon’s Leaders Of Sanctions Over Internal Crisis

The European Union’s foreign policy chief told Lebanon’s leaders on Saturday they were to blame for the country’s political and economic crisis and could face sanctions.

Speaking after what he called a “frank exchange” with President Michel Aoun, Josep Borrell said he was bringing a firm message that the country stood on the edge of financial collapse and politicians could not afford to waste more time.

Speaking to reporters after talks with Aoun, Borrell said The crisis Lebanon is facing is a domestic crisis and a self-imposed crisis, adding that there would be consequences if they continue to obstruct steps to form a new government and implement reform.

Lebanon’s currency has lost 90% of its value. More than half the population are living in poverty and struggling with rampant inflation, power blackouts and shortages of fuel and food.

The crisis has been worsened by political stalemate, with Prime Minister-designate Saad al-Hariri at loggerheads with Aoun for months over forming a new government capable of introducing reforms which could unlock desperately needed foreign aid.

The possible sanctions are part of an effort by some EU states, led by France, to ramp up pressure on Lebanon’s fractious politicians after nearly a year of gridlock.

The bloc has yet to decide on which approach to take.

 Borrell will report back to foreign ministers on Monday after his talks in Beirut, where he was also due to meet Hariri, the speaker of parliament and the caretaker prime minister.