Iran Press/Middle East: Riot police in Lebanon's capital have fired tear gas to disperse men who tried to attack a key anti-government protest camp, setting off street battles that lasted for hours.
The clashes on Saturday marked some of the worst in Beirut since demonstrations against the country's entire political establishment began almost two months ago, Al Jazeera reported.
The unrest started when dozens of men, some wearing masks, pelted security forces with stones and threw firecrackers at them on one edge of the protest camp.
The security forces fired tear gas to keep the men away, but the clashes continued.
The rise in tensions comes as politicians have failed to agree on forming a new government. It comes only two days away from consultations between the president and parliamentary blocs to name a prime minister.
Protesters demanding an overhaul of the country's political systems want the formation of a new government that is not affiliated with established parties.
The Lebanese people have been holding demonstrations since 17 October, protesting against poor economic conditions, the rising cost of living, and high unemployment.
The peaceful protests have resulted in the resignation of Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri.
Saad al-Hariri is currently serving as an interim head of government until someone is found to replace him.
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