Maronite Patriarch Bechara Al-Rahi received Justice Minister Adel Nassar at the Patriarchal See in Bkerke on Monday, where the minister highlighted the ongoing work of Lebanon’s judiciary despite difficult conditions.

“The judiciary is moving forward, even under challenging circumstances,” Nassar told the patriarch.

After the meeting, Nassar confirmed that the investigation into the 2020 Beirut port explosion remains active under Judge Tarek Bitar.

“We are providing every possible support to facilitate his work,” he said.

On his objection to the controversial appointment of Gracia Azzi as Director General of Customs, Nassar said he fully respects the presumption of innocence but believes it is inappropriate for her to receive a promotion at this time. He stressed that his objection does not constitute interference in the judicial process, which must be allowed to run its course.

“Anyone found guilty will face all applicable legal measures. My concern was solely about the appropriateness of the promotion at this stage,” he said.

Nassar had formally recorded his objection in the Cabinet session, noting that Azzi is a defendant in the port explosion investigation.

Nassar also praised Lebanon’s cooperation with foreign judicial authorities, describing it as “very good,” and commended Judge Jamal Al-Hajjar, who continues to perform his duties effectively while preparing for retirement.

The minister reiterated his commitment to keeping politics out of judicial appointments, praising Judge Suhail Abboud, head of the Higher Judicial Council, for maintaining the judiciary’s independence under extremely difficult conditions.