UN human rights experts demand probe into Beirut explosion

August 14, 2020

UN human rights experts on Thursday demanded a prompt and independent probe into the deadly twin blasts that rocked the Lebanese capital of Beirut.

Some 38 experts raised the demand, citing concerns over irresponsibility and impunity in Lebanon.

“We support calls for a prompt, impartial, credible and independent investigation based on human rights principles, to examine all claims, concerns and needs in relation to the explosion as well as the underlying human rights failures,” the group said in a joint statement.

The explosion, the biggest in Beirut’s history, killed at least 172 people and injured another 6,000. Some 250,000 were also left homeless due to the August 4 blasts.

Read more: Will protests after Beirut blast bring reform to Lebanon?

The experts also called for a wider mandate to look into “any systemic failures of the Lebanese authorities and institutions to protect human rights”.

UN experts do not speak for the United Nations but submit their findings to it.

“We are deeply concerned about the level of irresponsibility and impunity surrounding human and environmental devastation on this scale,” the group said.

The statement was also posted to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.

Lebanon’s President Michel Aoun has previously rejected any international investigation into the port blast, as demanded by protesters.

In pictures: Beirut blast aftermath — destruction, chaos and protests

Panic in Beirut

Two immense blasts shook Beirut and the surrounding areas of the Lebanese capital, prompting panic as residents rushed to safety. “I have never in my life seen a disaster this big,” Beirut’s governor told local TV.

In pictures: Beirut blast aftermath — destruction, chaos and protests

Blasts felt in city’s outskirts

The explosions, centered in Beirut’s port region, were felt throughout the capital. Even residents in the city’s outskirts reported hearing the blast, with some saying their windows were shattered.

In pictures: Beirut blast aftermath — destruction, chaos and protests

Dozens killed, thousands injured

Lebanon’s Health Ministry said at least 100 people were killed and more than 4,000 others were injured.

In pictures: Beirut blast aftermath — destruction, chaos and protests

‘Unacceptable’ ammonium nitrate stock

Prime Minister Hassan Diab said that a large stockpile of 2,750 metric tons of ammonium nitrate in a warehouse at the port had caused the second, larger explosion. “It is unacceptable that a shipment of 2,750 tons of ammonium nitrate has been present for six years in a warehouse, without taking preventive measures,” Diab said.

In pictures: Beirut blast aftermath — destruction, chaos and protests

Race to save survivors

More than 30 Red Cross teams raced to the scene, with many locals lending a hand to aid rescue efforts. Hospitals warned that they were quickly filled beyond capacity — and called for blood donations as well as generators to help keep the electricity on.

In pictures: Beirut blast aftermath — destruction, chaos and protests

Felt as far away as Cyprus

The blasts struck with the force of a 3.5 magnitude earthquake, according to Germany’s geosciences center GFZ. Residents in Cyprus, some 110 miles (180 km) across the sea from Beirut, reported hearing and feeling the blast.

In pictures: Beirut blast aftermath — destruction, chaos and protests

People are ‘asking for their loved ones’

DW’s Bassel Aridi said people were using social media to try to track down their loved ones after the explosions. Aridi also visited a hospital in Beirut after the blasts. “What I saw in the hospital was so dramatic. All the hospitals have announced that they are totally overloaded.”

In pictures: Beirut blast aftermath — destruction, chaos and protests

Two-week state of emergency

Lebanese authorities fear many more people are buried beneath rubble. President Michel Aoun scheduled an emergency Cabinet meeting for Wednesday and said a two-week state of emergency should be declared.

In pictures: Beirut blast aftermath — destruction, chaos and protests

Lebanon faces double-blow

The devastating blasts come as Lebanon experiences severe economic turbulence, with many people taking to the streets in recent months to protest the financial situation. Prime Minister Hassan Diab declared that Wednesday would be a national day of mourning for the victims of the explosion.

In pictures: Beirut blast aftermath — destruction, chaos and protests

Protesters demand reforms and resignations

Thousands of protesters took to the streets four days after the explosion, blaming the blast on government corruption and mismanagement boiling. Protesters demanded government resignations and fresh elections, with many occupying government ministries. Police responded with tear gas.

In pictures: Beirut blast aftermath — destruction, chaos and protests

First resignation

Information Minister Manal Abdel Samad became the first government minister to resign in the wake of the blast, five days after it took place. “After the enormous Beirut catastrophe, I announce my resignation from government,” she said in a statement carried by local media. She apologized to the people of Beirut for failing them.

Author: Darko Janjevic