Pharmacies close doors over shortages in crises-hit Lebanon

Pharmacies across Lebanon have shuttered their doors in protest of severe supply shortages, as motorists seeking to buy fuel lined up for hours outside gas stations since the crack of dawn

BEIRUT -- Pharmacies across Lebanon shuttered their doors on Friday to protest severe shortages of medicines as motorists lined up for hours outside gas stations since the crack of dawn. The two-day strike called by pharmacists over lack of supplies, including infant milk, as well as gasoline shortages were the latest signs of Lebanon's economic and financial meltdown, which appears to be spinning out of control while the country’s leaders seem unable, or unwilling, to rein in the crises. Entire blocks came to a standstill around the country, causing massive traffic jams in small streets and on highways, because of queueing motorists outside of gas stations. The fuel shortages are also threatening to turn off power generators, which are the main source of electricity for most Lebanese. Fights broke out among customers in some stations, as some insisted on filling plastic gallons. A fistfight erupted in one location, with an angry customer reportedly firing gunshots in the air. Many stations closed, saying they had no gasoline to offer.