Arab League Warns of 'Very Critical Situation' in Lebanon

The Arab League on Wednesday warned that the situation is "very critical" in Lebanon, urging security forces to "act responsibly" and protesters to "shun violence."

"The rapid developments in the Lebanese arena and the dangerous escalation on the Lebanese streets between protesters and the Lebanese Army, specefically in Tripoli, are extremely alarming and unnerving," Arab League Assistant Secretary General Hussam Zaki said.

"The situation in Lebanon is very critical, especially on the streets, and it could quickly slide into the danger zone," Zaki cautioned.

"We are especially pinning hope on the wisdom of the Army Command and the security agencies, which must act with their usual professionalism and responsibility to prevent the country from descending into the unknown," he went on to say.

Zaki also called on the government to "quickly take practical and prompt steps for economic reform and to fulfill the legitimate demands of the Lebanese people."

"We have indications that this has become imminent," he added.

And urging Lebanese leaders to "preserve national unity and civil peace," Zaki called on them not to ignite the street.

"There is a need to maintain the peaceful nature of the protests and to shun the violence which would further complicate and aggravate things," he added.