Police, anti-government protesters again clash in Beirut

Lebanese activists clash with policemen as they try to cross to the government house during a protest against the ongoing trash crisis, in downtown Beirut, Lebanon, Sunday, Aug. 23, 2015. Lebanon’s prime minister Tammam Salam hinted Sunday he might resign after violent protests against government corruption and political dysfunction triggered by a monthlong trash crisis in Beirut. AP PHOTO/BILAL HUSSEIN

BEIRUT—Lebanese riot police are spraying thousands of protesters with water cannons in downtown Beirut, the second day of mass demonstrations against an ongoing trash crisis becoming violent.

The clashes broke out shortly before sunset Sunday when angry protesters tried to break through barbed wire leading to the government’s headquarters.

Police also beat back protesters with clubs. The protesters hurled stones and water bottles at the force, injuring at least two who were seen whisked away by their comrades.

The violence comes hours after Prime Minister Tammam Salam hinted he might step down following Saturday’s violent protests triggered by a monthlong trash crisis. Clashes that day injured more than 100 people.

Weeks of anger about overflowing piles of rubbish in Beirut and other parts of Lebanon erupted on Saturday as thousands protested outside the prime minister’s office.

Police responded with tear gas, water cannon and gunfire as some protesters tried to pull down barricades and barbed wire.

A Red Cross official said at least 16 people had been wounded in the clashes. Lebanon’s Internal Security Forces (ISF) said more than 35 of its members were injured.

Moving to ease tensions, Prime Minister Tammam Salam said on Sunday he was ready to meet with members of the “You Stink” movement which is organising the demonstrations and has blamed political divisions and corruption for the crisis.