On the fifth anniversary of the catastrophic explosion that devastated the Port of Beirut on August 4, 2020, the European Union and its Member States expressed their ongoing solidarity with the victims’ families and all those whose lives, homes, and livelihoods were shattered by the disaster.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the EU welcomed recent developments that have facilitated progress in the official investigation, noting that these align with the Lebanese Cabinet’s ministerial statement. The bloc urged relevant authorities to ensure the necessary conditions are in place for the investigation to be completed thoroughly, impartially, and transparently, allowing victims’ families and the Lebanese people to receive the justice and accountability they deserve.

“Ending impunity is essential for Lebanon’s recovery,” the EU emphasized, underlining the need for an independent and empowered judiciary free from political interference. It expressed hope that the recently adopted Law on the Independence of the Judiciary will help achieve this critical objective.

The European Union reaffirmed its commitment to standing by Lebanon and its people, pledging continued support for the country’s stability, sovereignty, and pursuit of peace and development.