Significance
This followed the government’s decision to default, for the first time ever, on bonds maturing on March 9. There is a mounting controversy over whether to seek financial support from the IMF for a comprehensive debt restructuring programme, especially as COVID-19 further intensifies the economic crisis. Hezbollah, Lebanon’s dominant political force, initially vetoed any such recourse, but may be softening its stance.
Impacts
One possible source of support could be Qatar, which has shown a pragmatic approach to working alongside Hezbollah in the past.
IMF-agreed reforms would likely impose further hardship on an already-suffering population.
IMF and donor finance would at least put dollars back in the market, albeit at a higher price, and safeguard imports.