Shortages prompt closure of pharmacies, gas stations in Lebanon

Shortages prompt closure of pharmacies, gas stations in Lebanon

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 queuing 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.