General documents - Leading MEPs call for de-escalation and dialogue in Beirut - Delegation for relations with the Mashreq countries

The clashes we are witnessing today in the heart of Beirut are a reminder of why Lebanon needs to move forward and build a more solid future for all Lebanese people.

14 October 2021

Following the news that violent clashes have erupted in Beirut, the European Parliament's Chair of the Committee on Foreign Affairs, David McALLISTER (EPP, DE) and the Chair of the Delegation for relations with the Mashreq countries, Isabel SANTOS (S&D, PT) said:

"We are saddened to see the images of violence coming from Beirut today, so reminiscent of the Lebanon's past. We call on everyone to remain calm and engage in dialogue rather than violence.

The European Parliament is closely monitoring developments in Lebanon and will be sending a delegation to Beirut next month. The European Parliament recently urged Lebanese leaders to keep their promises to the people of Lebanon and be a functional government that is mission-driven, credible and accountable, that leaves parliamentary divisions aside and that is free from foreign influence. In order to avoid any further escalation of violence, Lebanese political leaders must call for appeasement and enter into dialogue to resolve these problems. Authorities should take the necessary measure to ensure the safety of citizens.

We continue to urge the Lebanese authorities to respect the judicial procedures and the independence of the judiciary and assist every effort that would allow those responsible for the decisions that led to the blast in the port of Beirut to be properly investigated and held to account. It is clear that a transparent, independent, neutral and effective investigation into the Beirut port explosion is a priority that must be ensured."

Background

Clashes erupted in Beirut following protests calling for the removal of Judge Tarek Bitar, the lead judge in the investigation into the Beirut Port blast in August 2020. Several fatalities and injuries have been reported.

Tensions over the investigation were addressed in a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday 12 October, and were due to be discussed further on Wednesday 13 October, but the session was postponed.