Lebanese President Michel Aoun affirmed on the eve of the first anniversary of the Beirut port explosion that the truth behind the massacre will be uncovered and that every perpetrator will be punished. 

President Aoun expressed his sympathy with every wounded and injured victim, "and everyone who lost a loved one or relative, home or property," saluting the steadfastness of the people facing the tragedies. 

During his message, he addressed the Lebanese people Tuesday evening, stressing his firm position beside the investigation and trials. 

He hailed the strong judiciary that "does not retreat before any authority," and is not "afraid of immunities."

Aoun stressed that "When the head of state puts himself at the disposal of the judiciary to hear his testimony, there is no excuse for anyone to be granted immunity or for anyone to use an argument, legal or political, so as not to provide the investigation with a sufficient amount of information to reach its goal." 

He believed that the judicial investigator and the judiciary are facing a challenge to uncover the truth, conduct a trial and issue a fair judgment in a short period "because delayed justice is not justice."

President Aoun demanded that the commemoration tomorrow should move away from any actions that could tamper with the country's security and stability, "offending this tragic anniversary."

He recalled the 4th of August last year, saying that "many hearts were torn, and innocent lives were lost," blaming the incident on neglect and the combined responsibility of several officials who "could have taken the necessary measures to remove the dangerous materials that led to the disaster." 

A few days ago, President Aoun announced his absolute willingness to testify in the Beirut port explosion if the judicial investigator wants to hear him. 

Moreover, the Speaker of the Lebanese Parliament, Nabih Berri, said on the eve of the anniversary that the martyrs will not rest in peace, and the nation will not heal until justice is served and the truth is out. 

Berri stressed that there will be no immunity or protection except for the martyrs of the Port of Beirut, the law, and the constitution.

It is noteworthy that an explosion shook the capital Beirut on August 4, 2020, due to an ammonium shipment that was stored in the port for years, leaving more than 200 victims and more than 6,000 wounded.

Aoun: I am working with the president-designate against obstacles to form a government

In another context, and regarding the formation of the government, Aoun said he will work with the president-designate to overcome all obstacles to rescue the government. 

He added that all efforts will be in accordance with the constitution and will implement a reform program. 

On the other hand, Prime Minister-designate, Najib Mikati, said yesterday that "There will be no government in Lebanon before the anniversary of the Beirut port explosion."