"We want justice," can be read on a sign brandished by a demonstrator, on Aug. 4, 2023 on the third anniversary of the explosion at the Beirut port. (Credit: Matthieu Karam/L'Orient Today archive photo)
BEIRUT — Dozens of people, relatives of victims of the devastating Aug. 4, 2020 Beirut port blast, came together once again on Thursday afternoon for their first monthly sit-in of the year, at the scene of the disaster. The meeting, held consistently on the fourth of every month for over three years, took place on Jan. 4, 2024, this time amid the violent spillovers from the conflict between Israel and Hamas, further into Lebanon.
The families, persistent in their quest for justice in the aftermath of the explosion that claimed over 235 lives, injured 7,000, and damaged 77,000 buildings, asserted that an internal investigation would be more effective than an international probe. This stance comes despite the stalled inquiry led by Judge Tarek Bitar, hindered for months by blatant political interference.
Sit-in of families of victims of the explosion of Aug. 4, 2020, pictured here on Jan. 4, 2024 in front of the port of Beirut. (Photo sent to L'Orient Today by an attendee)
Displaying photos and portraits of their lost loved ones, the families called upon the Chief Judge of Beirut's Court of Appeals, Judge Habib Rizkallah, to urgently proceed with the investigation which, from a legal standpoint, faces no obstructions. In a statement, they reiterated their "fight against corruption and against all politicians who prevent the truth from being revealed," a campaign now nearing its fourth year.
The families have placed their trust in "a few honest judges" who stood their ground, remained untainted by national interests and refused to succumb to political and material pressures. The statement highlighted their commitment to a local inquiry, drawing parallels to the case of assassinated former Prime Minister Rafic Hariri, where, despite billions spent, the expected outcomes were not achieved. They are certain that an "internal and national investigation will yield more benefits than an international one."
In their call to action, the group of relatives stressed the urgent need for the Beirut port case to be resolved, and for it to be "freed from its chains and the grip of politicians." The statement ended with tone of confidence that justice will be served, regardless of how long it takes.
This article was originally published in French on L'Orient-le Jour. English translation by Amelia Hankins.
