Lebanese Ticked Off Over Smoking Restrictions

Many people wonder if a little time with a cigarette is a worthwhile concern for lawmakers

On a recent warm summer night in the heart of Beirut, a few dozen people gathered in a city square to attend a music concert launching a public awareness campaign. In a country that loves music – free concerts can often draw big crowds. But surprisingly few had turned out.

Perhaps the unpopularity of the new public awareness campaign was the reason why.

On Monday, a ban on smoking in closed places like restaurants, cafes, pubs and night went into effect – leaving many smokers and business owners fuming.