The publication is reproduced in full below:
REMEMBERING THE 2ND ANNIVERSARY OF THE AUGUST 4, 2020 BEIRUT PORT
EXPLOSION
______
HON. DARIN LaHOOD
of illinois
in the house of representatives
Friday, July 29, 2022
Mr. LaHOOD. Madam Speaker, on August 4, 2020, a large amount of ammonium nitrate stored at the Port of Beirut in the capital city of Lebanon exploded, causing more than 220 deaths, 7,000 injuries, at least $15 billion in property damage, and leaving an estimated 300,000 people homeless. Two years have passed and yet there is no closure for the families of the victims, and many are left behind to bear the burden of rebuilding their lives and their communities.
The United States Congress, the Administration, the Lebanese-American community, and many others worldwide responded with significant food, and humanitarian assistance, medical equipment, and reconstruction supplies. Today the need has only magnified given the continued obstruction by corruption and political instability--preventing an open judicial investigation.
The Lebanese diaspora community, the families of the victims, and the international donors urge the Lebanese government to enforce the calls from the United Nations, the International Support Group, and the American government, to move swiftly and effectively to complete the investigation and bring those guilty to justice. Lebanon needs a free, independent, and legitimate judicial system and government. Committing to conclude the investigation will serve as a major step in freeing the courts from the political entanglements and pressures that have for too long impeded justice and fairness in Lebanese society.
As the co-chair of the U.S.-Lebanon Friendship Caucus, which allows members of Congress to learn and engage on important issues related to the U.S.-Lebanon relationship, I ask all Members to join me in remembering those who died in the tragic blast as well as those survivors who depend on the comfort and support of others to maintain hope for the future of Lebanon. We urge the caretaker Lebanese government to remove the political impediments brought by others so that a complete and thorough investigation can be concluded, and that justice will prevail.
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SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 168, No. 127(1), Congressional Record Vol. 168, No. 127(2)
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