Representative of fuel distributors in Lebanon, Fadi Abu Chakra, confirmed that “whoever calls himself a member of the Syndicate of Importers of Oil Derivatives, George Al-Barraks, does not have an actual capacity and is not a member of the syndicate,” explaining that “his last statement is totally rejected, and we do not accept such provocative statements, which escalate citizens’ anxiety and panic, exacerbates the crisis even more, and creates an atmosphere suitable for the black market.”

Abu Chakra indicated that “it is no secret to anyone that there is a fuel crisis, but there is no need for all this panic and mobilization,” considering that “lifting subsidies is not the solution for now, as we do not accept that solutions will always at the expense of the citizen,” asking Banque du Liban, to expedite in opening oil credits to meet the needs of the market and citizens including the tourism and hospitalization sectors and other basic sectors in the country.”

He wished on all media outlets “not to circulate such statements, which only make the situation worse and create a greater rush among  people to obtain these materials.”