On August 4th, 2020, over 500 tons of ammonium nitrate stored at the Port of Beirut exploded, causing more than 220 deaths, 7,000 injuries, 300,000 displaced individuals, and at least $15 billion in property damage.
On this day of mourning, the American Task Force on Lebanon (ATFL), a leadership organization of Americans of Lebanese descent, reiterates its position on the necessity for a truly independent judiciary in Lebanon.
Congressman Darin LaHood, representing the 18th District of Illinois, issued a statement for the record in the US House of Representatives today as the co-chair of the US-Lebanon Friendship Caucus and a long-time friend of ATFL.
ATFL President and CEO, Ambassador Ed Gabriel (ret.), outlines the deplorable corruption and negligence that led to the Port Explosion two years ago as well as what is at stake for Lebanon if its leaders fail to facilitate the country’s recovery in time.
The American Task Force on Lebanon is 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization of prominent Americans of Lebanese heritage, who educate for the strengthening of the historic U.S.-Lebanon relationship. The mission and objectives of ATFL shall always be in the best interest of the United States and will promote the national unity, independence, and prosperity of a democratic and multi-sectarian Lebanon.