Tensions simmer as protesters scuffle with police in Beirut

Tensions simmered in Beirut late on Wednesday night as protesters clashed with Lebanese security force. A group of people were trying to approach one of the protest squares in central Beirut when they were faced with riot police. Some of the men were throwing rocks and burning tyres. Riot police used tear gas in return. Lebanon has been facing weeks of anti-government protests since October 17, fuelled by anger at corruption among the sectarian politicians who have governed Lebanon for decades. Clashes broke out at several times previously between the anti-government protesters and supporters of the Shi'ite groups Hezbollah and Amal movement.