Lebanese president pledges trial for officials linked to Beirut blast tragedy

Lebanese President General Joseph Aoun has reaffirmed his commitment to holding accountable all officials implicated in the devastating explosion at Beirut’s seaport in August 2020.

Speaking on the fifth anniversary of the disaster, which claimed over 200 lives and left vast areas of the capital in ruins, Aoun addressed the families of the victims and the injured, assuring that justice will prevail and no perpetrator will evade punishment, Caliber.Az reports, citing Lebanese media.

“This tragic day marks five years since a powerful blast took the lives of more than 200 citizens and destroyed several neighbourhoods of our capital.

To the families of the deceased and wounded, I say justice will triumph, and no one responsible for this grave crime will escape accountability,” the president said.

He emphasised that a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the catastrophe remains a top priority for the Lebanese state.

“All officials whose negligence, failure to fulfil duties, or corruption contributed to this national tragedy will face trial,” General Aoun pledged.

The president also highlighted ongoing efforts by authorities to ensure transparency throughout the investigative process and stressed that those responsible will be held to account regardless of rank or sectarian affiliation.

“We remember today the remarkable solidarity shown by our people five years ago in the immediate aftermath of the catastrophe, when many rushed to aid the wounded, clear the debris, and care for those whose homes were reduced to rubble,” he added. “It is this spirit of unity that will help us rebuild our country.”

The Beirut port explosion occurred on August 4, 2020, when approximately 2,750 tonnes of improperly stored ammonium nitrate detonated in a warehouse. The blast devastated much of Beirut’s northern districts, killing over 200 people, injuring around 7,000, and leaving an estimated 300,000 homeless. 

The explosion caused widespread destruction of infrastructure, including homes, businesses, and hospitals, intensifying Lebanon’s ongoing economic and political crises. Investigations revealed years of negligence and corruption that allowed the hazardous material to remain unsafely stored.

The tragedy triggered mass protests demanding accountability from government officials. 

By Aghakazim Guliyev