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Retired soldiers, policemen try to storm govt headquarters in Lebanon

BEIRUT, March 22 (KUNA) -- Clashes erupted outside Lebanon's Grand Serial and the Parliament entrance between activists and police forces on Wednesday in Riad Solh Square in downtown Beirut.
Lebanon's National News Agency (NNA) said hundreds of activists, most of whom are retired servicemen, rallied to protest against the stifling financial conditions.
NNA added that the brawl escalated when protesters attempted to remove barbed wires around the Grand Serail, prompting the security forces to fire tear gas, which led to several injuries.
It also stated that army troops implemented strict measures at all entrances leading to the parliament and rushed to the scene to disperse the crowds and restore calm.
Minister of Interior and Municipalities Bassam Mawlawi affirmed safety of the country is the responsibility of the security and military forces as well as the citizens.
In a press statement after the Central Security Council meeting, he said that the country is going through sensitive circumstances that can easily lead to bad results, noting that security forces will be ready to protect public and private properties and maintain security. (end) kbs.ahm