![Prime Minister-designate Hassan Diab gives a statement following his meeting with outgoing prime Minister Saad Hariri in Beirut on 20 December, 2019 [AFP/Getty Images]](https://i0.wp.com/www.middleeastmonitor.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/GettyImages-1189652268.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&ssl=1)
Lebanese Prime Minister Hassan Diab said yesterday that the state is no longer able to protect its citizens as its protection mechanisms is “tied with sectarian restrictions”, Anadolu reported.
Speaking to Lebanese diplomats in the headquarters of the government, Diab said that the country “suffers from weakness and is living a very difficult stage.”
He added: “The Lebanese are very worried about their present and future as the financial crisis is expanding and the Lebanese became afraid of the deteriorating economic situation,living conditions, social circumstances and health issues.”
Diab reiterated that “the state is no longer able to protect its citizens.”“We are facing massive challenges as the mechanisms of the state are tied with sectarian restrictions. The government is carrying a heavy burden and its mission is complex.
We are persistent in moving forward and solving all the chronic problems.”Lebanon is suffering from sharp financial and economic crises which have led to popular protests with demonstrators calling for political and economic reforms.
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