• The “Depositors’ Outcry Association” has called for a protest in front of Beirut’s Palace of Justice at 10:30 (local time) on July 17. 
• The protest was called to denounce the measures of the Banque du Liban (BDL), particularly Circular 169, which imposes capital control on depositors’ funds. 

1. The BDL issued several new circulars on July 1, including Circular 169, which introduced capital control and restricted overseas money transfers as part of efforts to ensure equality among depositors. This measure has prompted several protests by the Depositors’ Outcry Association, including on July 4, given its perceived violation of depositors’ rights and further limiting their access to their funds. The latest call highlights the group’s sustained grievances in this context. 
2. FORECAST: The protest will therefore likely garner a turnout in the mid-dozens. While it is expected to transpire peacefully overall, the materialization of unrest cannot be ruled out. This is particularly considering the high-profile location of the protest. Security forces will therefore bolster their presence in the vicinity of the Palace of Justice. The deployment of riot dispersal measures is plausible in the event of unrest. Additionally, disruptions to travel in the vicinity of the protest can be expected. 

Those operating or residing in Beirut during the morning hours on July 17 are advised to maintain heightened vigilance in the vicinity of the Palace of Justice due to the slated protest and associated risk of localized unrest.