Lebanon security forces blast anti-austerity protestors with water cannons

Protesters set fire to tyres outside Government House as cabinet agrees on controversial budget cuts

Lebanese police use a water cannon against protesters, including retired army officers, demonstrating against budget cuts (AP)

Lebanese security forces have opened heavy water cannons on anti-austerity protests in the capital city, as the government faces a looming fiscal crisis.

Over 100 protesters gathered outside the Government House in downtown Beirut shouting “thieves, thieves”, as the Cabinet met for its 16th session to reach agreement on controversial budget cuts.

Protesters pushed back against police lines and set fire to tyres outside the building,

The government's planned budget cuts have unleashed a wave of public discontent, amid leaks that austerity could target public wages, services and social benefits.

Among those demonstrating were public and private school teachers.

Lebanon's economy is struggling with soaring debt, rising unemployment and slow growth.

The government's budget and key reforms aim to unlock billions of dollars in pledged foreign assistance.

Associated Press