Lebanon erupts as Trump envoy labels journalists ‘animalistic’, rattled press takes down Tom Barrack

A storm erupted in Beirut after US Special Envoy Tom Barrack insulted Lebanese journalists during a tense press conference at Baabda Palace. Barrack told reporters their conduct was “animalistic” and threatened to shut down the briefing if they didn’t “act civilised.” His remarks drew outrage across Lebanon, with journalists demanding a public apology and accusing the envoy of arrogance and disrespect. The Press Editors Syndicate has even threatened a boycott of his visits. With outrage spreading, will Washington respond—or will this insult spark a deeper diplomatic rift?