1000 Prisoners Near Freedom, General Amnesty Near Implementation

Around 1,000 prisoners could soon be released under Lebanon’s general amnesty law, as judges work to resolve disputes over eligibility and procedures.

Discussions focus on repeat offences, multiple convictions and pending cases, particularly involving drugs and theft. Requirements for criminal records and security documents have also raised concerns over delays and inconsistent standards across courts.

The Higher Judicial Council appointed four judges to review the procedures and report within a week, paving the way for individual rulings.

The amnesty could ease prison overcrowding, while deeper reforms remain necessary to speed up trials and improve detention conditions. Families now await decisions that could end years of uncertainty.