Beirut Marks Fifth Anniversary of Port Blast with Renewed Demands for Justice

Beirut Marks Fifth Anniversary of Port Blast with Renewed Demands for Justice
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Hundreds gathered in Beirut on Monday to mark the fifth anniversary of the devastating port explosion, as reported by Xinhua News Agency. Families of victims, survivors, activists, and officials marched from Martyrs’ Square to the port site, carrying photos of those lost and banners calling for truth and accountability.

The explosion on August 4, 2020, caused over 200 deaths, injured around 7,000 people, and inflicted long-term damage on Beirut’s infrastructure and economy.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun addressed the commemoration, pledging the state’s continued commitment to justice. “Justice will not die,” he said, emphasizing that the investigation would proceed despite political obstacles. He stressed that the law should apply to all, regardless of rank or status.

The blast, caused by improperly stored ammonium nitrate, remains a source of national outrage, with many accusing political leaders of obstructing the judicial process to avoid accountability.