Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri announced his intention to resign from his position on Tuesday, nearly two weeks into mass anti-government protests that have gripped the Middle Eastern country of 6 million.

"I have reached a dead end today," Hariri said from Beirut, as he appealed to all Lebanese to "protect civil peace." He addressed the country's political parties, saying it is "our responsibility to protect Lebanon." He added that political positions come and go, but that the dignity and safety of the country was more important.

Lebanese dollar bonds extended their fall ahead of the news, with yields exceeding 30%, according to Reuters. The country's banks announced they would remain shut on Wednesday, deepening fears of a cash crisis and a chaotic run on the banks when they eventually reopen.

The protests, described as the country's largest in 14 years, have been unprecedented in their cross-sectarianism and scope. Protesters span a range of ages and include members from across Lebanon's 18 religious sects, who appear to share a similar anger at a government characterized by decades of graft, corruption and the inability to provide basic services like reliable electricity or garbage disposal.

Lebanon's debt-to-GDP stands at more than 150%, one of the highest in the world, and unemployment hovers between 35% and 40%. Lebanon is ranked 138 out of 175 countries by Transparency International's Corruption Perception Index.

A reform package promised by Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri earlier this month failed to satisfy the demonstrators, who are demanding a full resignation of the cabinet and an overhaul of the country's sectarian political system.