U.S. Department of State honored Lebanese Judge Carl Irani, making him the first judge to receive this prestigious award in recognition of his efforts to combat corruption.

This exceptional recognition coincided with International Anti-Corruption Day, reflecting the United States' commitment to supporting distinguished figures who promote transparency and integrity on a global scale.

Judge Irani was one of 10 global figures honored by the Department of State, highlighting his pivotal role in upholding justice within Lebanon’s judiciary amidst significant challenges.

As a judge in the State Council, Irani has played a prominent role in issuing judicial decisions that reinforce the principle of accountability.

Among Judge Irani’s most notable rulings was compelling the Ministry of Finance to release the "Alvarez Report," the basis for the arrest of former Central Bank Governor Riad Salameh. Dubbed the "Heist of the Century," the report revealed the misappropriation of billions of dollars in public funds.

One of the key decisions that contributed significantly to Judge Irani’s recognition was his response to a legal petition filed by Kataeb Party leader MP Samy Gemayel before the State Council.

The petition sought to obligate the Minister of Finance to hand over the preliminary forensic audit report prepared by Alvarez & Marsal on the accounts and activities of the Central Bank of Lebanon.

Judge Irani ruled in favor of disclosing the report, mandating its submission to Parliament and publication on the Ministry’s website.

This decision aimed to empower Lebanese citizens—who have the right to know the causes behind the financial and monetary collapse and the seizure of their deposits—with full access to the report’s findings.

تكريم لافت من الخارجية الاميركية للقاضي كارل عيراني pic.twitter.com/DMQ9ooY0nd

— Akhbar Al Yawm (@akhbaralyawm) December 10, 2024