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Lebanon Seeks IMF Deal to Unlock Bank Deposits

Bloomberg Markets •
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Lebanon's government expressed confidence it can resolve differences with the International Monetary Fund over a proposed law to allow depositors to recover billions of dollars trapped in the country's struggling banking sector. Prime Minister Najib Mikati stated his administration is working to bridge gaps with the IMF regarding the recovery plan.

Lebanon has been mired in a severe financial crisis since 2019, with commercial banks imposing strict withdrawal limits on dollar deposits as the currency collapsed. The proposed legislation would create a framework for distributing losses among banks, depositors, and the state. The IMF has been negotiating with Lebanese authorities on a potential $3 billion loan program tied to comprehensive economic reforms.

The banking sector's woes have left many Lebanese unable to access their savings, fueling public anger and protests. Resolving the dispute with the IMF represents a critical step toward unlocking international support and stabilizing the economy. Lebanon's ability to secure a deal will determine whether the country can begin recovering from its worst economic crisis in decades.