Ziad Makary, the caretaker minister of information, released a statement on Thursday condemning the futility of all attempts made to meet the justifiable expectations of the National News Agency’s staff.

“As of midnight, the National News Agency will start an open strike, which I hope will not be prolonged,” the Information Minister said.

“Despite this bitter reality, I will spare no effort to follow up on the sacred demands of NNA employees,” Makary added, deeming this matter a top priority.