Lebanon’s financial crisis, a multifaceted and deeply entrenched calamity, has decimated its economy and plunged a significant portion of its population into poverty. The crisis, which began in 2019, is a complex interplay of factors including decades of corruption, mismanagement, unsustainable fiscal policies, and external shocks. One of the primary drivers is Lebanon’s unsustainable debt burden. For years, the country relied heavily on borrowing to finance its budget deficits. This debt was often serviced through a Ponzi-like scheme attracting deposits with high interest rates. When confidence in the system eroded, the flow of fresh capital dried up, exposing the fragility of the financial structure. The Lebanese pound (Lira), once pegged to the US dollar, has lost more than 95% of its value on the parallel market, leading to hyperinflation and a drastic erosion of purchasing power. Salaries have plummeted in real terms, making it increasingly difficult for ordinary citizens to afford basic necessities such as food, medicine, and fuel. The banking sector, once a cornerstone of the Lebanese economy, is now practically insolvent. Banks imposed informal capital controls, severely restricting access to deposits, essentially trapping people’s savings. This has fueled public anger and distrust in the financial system. Many Lebanese have resorted to desperate measures to access their own money. The political landscape further exacerbates the situation. Deep-seated political divisions, sectarianism, and a history of gridlock have hindered meaningful reforms. The absence of a stable government and the lack of consensus on a credible recovery plan have prolonged the crisis and eroded investor confidence. International financial institutions, such as the IMF, have conditioned financial assistance on the implementation of comprehensive reforms, including fiscal consolidation, banking sector restructuring, and tackling corruption. The devastating explosion at the Beirut port in August 2020, which claimed hundreds of lives and caused billions of dollars in damage, compounded the existing challenges. The blast further weakened the infrastructure, disrupted supply chains, and deepened the economic recession. The consequences of the financial crisis extend far beyond the economic realm. Social unrest, emigration, and a brain drain are depleting Lebanon of its human capital. The healthcare system is struggling to cope with the rising cost of medical supplies and the exodus of medical professionals. Food insecurity is on the rise, and access to education is becoming increasingly difficult for many families. While there are no easy solutions, a sustainable recovery hinges on implementing bold and comprehensive reforms. This includes restructuring the banking sector, tackling corruption, establishing fiscal discipline, and promoting transparency and accountability. International support is crucial, but it must be conditional on tangible progress in implementing these reforms. Overcoming the entrenched political obstacles and building a national consensus on a viable path forward are essential for restoring stability and building a more prosperous future for Lebanon.