Lebanon Judge Bitar Concludes Beirut Port Explosion Probe, Refers 70 Defendants
Key Takeaways
- Bitar concluded Beirut port blast investigation, referred case to Court of Cassation prosecutor Jamal Hajjar.
- Dozens of suspects faced indictment, with reports of around seventy.
- Investigation had been open for nearly six years.
Bitar Finishes Probe
Bitar concluded his probe after nearly six years.
“The Beirut port explosion investigation is at a standstill after the release of Igor Grechushkin, the owner of the ammonium nitrate ship”
He referred the entire file to public prosecutor Jamal Hajjar.
Approximately 70 defendants are implicated.
Hajjar will review roughly 20 individuals who have not faced formal measures.
Shipowner Grechushkin Released
Grechushkin was released by Bulgaria despite an in-absentia warrant from Lebanon.
Bitar traveled to Bulgaria for an interrogation.
Grechushkin refused to answer any questions.
Investigation Faces Political Obstacles
Bitar's probe faced years of obstruction and challenges.
Hezbollah tried to block the investigation.
The probe resumed in 2025 after a shift in Lebanon's balance of power.
Judicial sources say the file is 99% complete.
No Detained Suspects
No suspects are currently in detention.
Bitar must decide on about 20 defendants who have appeared.
The remaining 50 have been subject to prior rulings.
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