On 26 Aug 2025, US envoy Thomas Barrack told Arab journalists in Lebanon to 'act civilised' during a press conference at the presidential palace in Beirut. He asked them to avoid chaotic and 'animalistic' behaviour. His remarks caused anger among Lebanese media and unions, who called the comments humiliating and racist. The Lebanese presidency expressed regret over the remarks but did not name Barrack. The press syndicate demanded an apology and threatened to boycott Barrack’s future visits if none was given. The event happened amid US efforts to disarm Hezbollah and reduce tensions in southern Lebanon. (Updated 27 Aug 2025, 00:28 IST; source: link)