Lebanese President Aoun Vows Justice Five Years After Beirut Port Blast

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun commemorated the fifth anniversary of the 2020 Beirut port explosion by reaffirming the state's commitment to uncovering the full truth and ensuring justice, regardless of the rank or affiliation of those involved. The blast, one of the largest non-nuclear explosions in history, killed over 200 people and injured thousands, yet accountability has been delayed by political interference and judicial obstacles. Investigating judge Tarek Bitar has completed questioning suspects and is awaiting further procedural steps before finalizing the investigation and issuing indictments. President Aoun pledged that the blood of the victims will not be in vain and that justice and accountability are inevitable, emphasizing that the law applies equally to all. The government declared a day of national mourning and rallies demanding justice are planned, underscoring the ongoing public demand for transparency and accountability. Prime Minister Nawaf Salam also stressed that knowing the truth and holding those responsible accountable are national priorities for Lebanon.