The Gulf Centre for Human Rights (GCHR) expresses its deep sorrow and full solidarity with the people of Lebanon, especially the residents of the capital, Beirut, and all those who were affected by the terrible events of 04 August 2020. GCHR sends condolences to the families of the victims who lost their lives in the tragic accident, and wishes a speedy recovery for all those who were wounded and injured. We are mindful of the fact that over 300,000 people have reportedly lost their homes, and many will lose their jobs at a time when the economic situation was already causing great difficulty.

The authorities in Lebanon must act immediately to limit the environmental impact of the explosion, which released toxic gases and dust into the air, and act to help preserve the health of those in the vicinity. The government should call in experts to conduct an independent, transparent, and thorough investigation into the causes of the accident, announce the results, and bring those responsible to trial, according to international legal standards.

The international community must fulfill its required humanitarian duty and provide all kinds of support to the Lebanese people, and to migrant workers who have lost their livelihoods, among those who are suffering as a result of the catastrophe in Beirut.

“Thankfully, no GCHR staff or partners were hurt in the explosion, but we have friends who have been hurt or had their windows blown out; not to mention the trauma they are suffering right now,” said Khalid Ibrahim, GCHR Executive Director. “Thank you so much to all those who reached out to check on us.”