• US envoy Tom Barrack's comments to journalists spark widespread outrage in Lebanon.
• Barrack described journalists' behavior as "animalistic" during a press conference.
• Calls for an apology and a media boycott against the envoy have been issued.
• The Lebanese presidency expressed regret over the incident, emphasizing respect for journalists.
• Local media organizations condemned Barrack's remarks as a violation of diplomatic etiquette.

US envoy Tom Barrack incited significant backlash in Lebanon after instructing local journalists to “act civilised” during a press conference held at the presidential palace on Tuesday. This remark followed a chaotic exchange where journalists shouted questions after Barrack’s meeting with President Joseph Aoun, leading him to declare, “The moment this starts becoming chaotic, like animalistic, we’re gone," which many interpreted as derogatory towards the media and indicative of a colonial mindset, according to Al Jazeera, Dawn, and TRT Global.

In light of Barrack’s comments, the Lebanese presidency issued a statement expressing regret and reaffirming its “absolute respect for human dignity,” while also commending journalistic efforts. Despite Barrack's Lebanese heritage, his comments received sharp criticism from various media organizations and Lebanese officials, stating that the envoy’s approach was “totally unacceptable” and demanded an “immediate and public apology,” as highlighted by Al Jazeera, Dawn, and TRT Global.

The Lebanese Union of Journalists criticized Barrack’s statement, calling it a reflection of “unacceptable arrogance” in interactions with the media. They have discussed the potential for a boycott against the US envoy's events until a formal apology is issued, a sentiment echoed by both journalists’ syndicates and other political figures, including Hezbollah lawmaker Ibrahim Musawi, as reported by Al Jazeera, Dawn, and TRT Global.

This incident has underscored tensions between US diplomats and Lebanese media, as the US envoy's comments are seen not only as disrespectful but also indicative of broader diplomatic challenges regarding free press and media interaction in the region. Many in Lebanon perceive the US diplomatic approach as failing to respect the cultural context and local norms, asserting that the dignity of journalists is paramount, according to Al Jazeera, Dawn, and TRT Global.