Lebanese Judge Tarek Bitar reinstated as lead investigator in Beirut Port Explosion case

BEIRUT — In a dramatic legal reversal, Lebanon’s Acting Attorney General Jamal Hajjar ruled on Monday to reinstate Judge Tarek Bitar as the lead investigator into the 2019 Beirut port explosion. This decision overturns the two-year suspension imposed by former Attorney General Ghassan Oueidat, who had previously blocked all judicial actions linked to Bitar’s investigation.

Case Plagued by Political Interference

Judge Bitar, appointed in 2021, was tasked with uncovering the truth behind the catastrophic explosion that killed over 200 people, injured thousands, and devastated much of Beirut on 4 August 2019. However, his efforts to hold powerful figures accountable quickly encountered significant resistance from Lebanon’s deeply entrenched political and sectarian establishment.

In early 2023, Oueidat accused Bitar of bias, citing alleged familial ties to former Public Works Minister Ghazi Zeaiter, a key figure implicated in the case. Oueidat not only suspended Bitar’s investigation but also initiated legal action against him, claiming he had overstepped his authority.

Hezbollah and Amal’s Role in Obstructing Justice

Bitar’s probe targeted high-ranking officials, including figures linked to Hezbollah and the Amal Movement. His determination to pursue accountability drew fierce backlash, with the late Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah labeling the investigation politically motivated and demanding Bitar’s removal.

Hezbollah and Amal-affiliated ministers filed over 30 appeals to disrupt the judicial process, effectively stalling the investigation for years. The judiciary itself was paralyzed under the weight of legal and political challenges, leaving victims’ families and the public frustrated by the lack of progress.

Timing of Bitar’s Reinstatement

Bitar’s reinstatement comes amid a backdrop of economic collapse, political paralysis, and rising tensions in Lebanon. Analysts suggest this move may be an attempt to restore some semblance of judicial credibility, especially as Lebanon seeks international financial aid and investment.

International pressure has also played a role. Victims’ families, along with rights organizations such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have persistently called for accountability. Additionally, France and the United Nations have urged impartial investigations, keeping the case in the global spotlight.

Challenges Ahead for Bitar

While Bitar’s return offers a glimmer of hope for justice, the path forward remains fraught with obstacles. Key questions linger: Will he be able to resume questioning former officials? Will new charges be filed? And will Lebanon’s judiciary shield him from renewed political interference?

Observers warn that Hezbollah and Amal may resort to further legal maneuvers or mobilize public protests to derail the investigation. Any significant moves by Bitar, especially against influential figures, could escalate tensions in Lebanon’s precarious power-sharing system.

Long Road to Accountability

Lebanon’s history of impunity casts doubt on whether Bitar’s reinstatement will lead to tangible justice. Despite compelling evidence pointing to negligence and corruption, no senior officials have been held accountable for the explosion.

For the families of victims, Bitar’s return symbolizes hope for justice, but also underscores the uphill battle against a system where the powerful have historically evaded consequences. The coming weeks will reveal whether this pivotal moment can break Lebanon’s cycle of impunity — or whether it will end in further disappointment.