Eid in Lebanon overshadowed by virus lockdown, economic crisis

Eid in Lebanon overshadowed by virus lockdown, economic crisis

Eid in Lebanon overshadowed by virus lockdown, economic crisis

Eid in Lebanon overshadowed by virus lockdown, economic crisis

Streets in Beirut were empty and shops and markets closed, as security patrols enforced a shutdown that will continue until Monday. (AN photo)

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Eid in Lebanon overshadowed by virus lockdown, economic crisis

Lebanese Ministry of Tourism chiefs have allowed sweets shops to open during Eid for takeaway and delivery services only, with restaurants and fast-food outlets given the green light to trade under the same restrictions

Updated 31 July 2020

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BEIRUT: Eid Al-Adha celebrations in Lebanon were on Thursday overshadowed by economic gloom and the first day of lockdown to prevent the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak.

Any festive spirit was knocked flat as official figures showed the number of COVID-19 cases in the country having shot up to 4,250, with 55 deaths.

Streets in the capital Beirut were empty and shops and markets closed, as security patrols enforced a shutdown that will continue until Monday. The COVID-19 pandemic combined with the country's financial crisis has left many cash-strapped Lebanese unable to enjoy traditional Hajj season rituals.

Beirut butcher shop owner, Mohammed Oleylat, said: "I used to slaughter between 40 and 50 sheep (for Eid), however,