Lebanon’s government has postponed a decision on whether to refer the case involving an explosives shipment seized at Dahr al-Baydar to the Judicial Council, with the matter deferred until an upcoming Cabinet session as investigations continue, Information Minister Paul Morcos said.

The proposed referral, put forward by Justice Minister Adel Nassar, has not been approved or rejected by the government. The case was discussed during the Cabinet meeting, but no final decision was taken, leaving the question of whether it should be handled by the Judicial Council unresolved.

The Judicial Council is an exceptional criminal tribunal that handles cases involving major threats to State security. 

The case centers on a shipment of explosives intercepted by Lebanese security forces at the Dahr al-Baydar checkpoint, on the main road linking Beirut with the Bekaa Valley. Authorities seized hundreds of kilograms of explosives, including TNT and C-4, and arrested two men who were transporting the shipment. A separate seizure of explosives in the al-Qasr area has also been linked to the proposed referral.

Hezbollah subsequently claimed ownership of the shipment, saying the explosives were part of its military capabilities and intended for use against Israeli forces. The seizure prompted calls for a thorough investigation, with Prime Minister Nawaf Salam vowing that those responsible would be pursued. 

Aoun Praises Security Agencies, Calls for Restraint

At the start of the Cabinet session, President Joseph Aoun commended the country’s security agencies for their efforts to maintain security across Lebanon and combat terrorism, drug trafficking, arms smuggling and other crimes, despite the economic pressures facing the country.

“We can only stand alongside the security agencies, as they are the backbone of the state and its fundamental pillar,” he said.

The president also praised Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri’s position, particularly his insistence that the Lebanese army was a red line, his commitment to preserving civil peace and his openness to dialogue and understanding.

Aoun said dialogue and mutual understanding remained the best means of protecting Lebanon and helping the country overcome its challenges.

Aoun said the region was facing major challenges and expressed hope that developments would not lead to further escalation or an explosion of violence.

He urged all Lebanese parties to exercise wisdom, awareness and restraint to prevent regional tensions from affecting Lebanon, which is already grappling with severe economic difficulties.

The president stressed that ministers and political officials alike had a responsibility to act prudently to spare the country any destabilizing repercussions from developments in the region.

Aoun also reaffirmed Lebanon’s solidarity with Saudi Arabia in the face of attacks against the kingdom and any threats to its sovereignty, security and citizens.

He said contacts were underway to facilitate the resumption of flights and encourage Saudi tourists to return to Lebanon.

The president also thanked Qatar for its efforts to help Lebanon address its energy needs, expressing hope that the Cabinet would convene to examine the energy and environmental files and find solutions to both issues.