ALBAWABA - A video of the Lebanese flag being flown at Martyrs' Square, Beirut, with a red sign in place of the customary cedar tree in the middle has gone viral on Lebanese social media and sparked intense discussion.
Strong emotions were sparked by the video, with many people wondering why the flag was altered and who was in charge of raising it. While some demanded an official inquiry following the incident, others saw the conduct as an insult and perversion of the national insignia.
Lebanese officials stepped in after the public outcry, providing clarification and taking down the controversial flag. The gesture was not meant to be disrespectful to the national flag, officials said, dismissing popular rumors.
Lebanese media outlets claim that the flag change was a component of a local media organization's awareness drive in honor of International Women's Day on March 8.
The flag's change was not intended to offend or deface the national emblem; rather, the effort sought to advance gender equality. It was also disclosed that as part of their campaign, the media outlet had received formal permission from Lebanese authorities to fly the altered flag at Martyrs' Square.
A copy of the official permission, which verified that the flag's display was authorized by law and a part of an authorized awareness campaign, was subsequently posted on social media to allay public worries.
