On July 30, the European Union announced a framework for targeted sanctions which “provides for the possibility of imposing sanctions against persons and entities who are responsible for undermining democracy or the rule of law in Lebanon.

Yet, to be effective, the international community must develop firm links between the structure and intended effects of aid and sanctions. It will not be easy to construct these policies in tandem, but it remains the most appropriate course of action available. This “carrot-and-stick” approach stands the best chance of bringing Lebanon’s intransigent political and banking class to the table, so that a realistic solution to the economic crisis can finally be agreed.