US Envoy’s “Act Civilised” Remark Sparks Lebanese Outcry

A press conference in Beirut erupted in controversy after U.S. envoy Tom Barrack told Lebanese journalists to “act civilised” inside the presidential palace. His remarks, which included a warning against “animalistic” behavior, triggered backlash from Lebanon’s press unions, media groups, and lawmakers, who demanded a public apology. The Lebanese presidency and information minister expressed regret, while the press editors’ syndicate floated a boycott of the envoy’s future visits and meetings.