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Tirana Clashes as Protests Over Kushner‑Linked Resort Turn Violent

The street battles deepen a political crisis that could affect Albania’s EU accession and force further legal scrutiny of fast‑tracked coastal projects.

Protesters try to remove a barricade as police hold it during clashes at an anti-government rally in Tirana, Albania, Thursday, July 2, 2026. (AP Photo/Hameraldi Agolli)
Police detain a protester during clashes at an anti-government rally in Tirana, Albania, Thursday, July 2, 2026. (AP Photo/Hameraldi Agolli)
A protester uses a flag to wipe flour from a police officer's face during clashes at an anti-government rally in Tirana, Albania, Thursday, July 2, 2026. (AP Photo/Hameraldi Agolli)
Police use a water cannon during clashes at an anti-government rally in Tirana, Albania, Thursday, July 2, 2026. (AP Photo/Hameraldi Agolli)

Overview

  • Thursday’s clashes outside parliament saw police fire tear gas, pepper spray and use a water cannon to disperse demonstrators, and authorities reported three police officers wounded.
  • The daily protests have run for more than a month and began as opposition to a proposed luxury development linked to Jared Kushner before expanding into broad anti‑government demands.
  • Demonstrators pelted police and lawmakers with eggs, rocks and flour and damaged a police car window while protesters used flamingo imagery to symbolise environmental concerns.
  • The government denies corruption and defends the projects as vital for tourism and EU ambitions, while protesters demand Prime Minister Edi Rama’s resignation and greater transparency.
  • A formal anti‑corruption probe, previous court‑ordered asset seizures and repeated calls from EU institutions for full environmental reviews mean the dispute now carries legal and accession risks for Albania.