BEIRUT, Lebanon — Pope Leo XIV visited the site of the devastating 2020 Beirut port explosion on Tuesday, paying tribute to the 218 lives lost and calling for accountability in a nation grappling with a legacy of corruption and impunity. The pope’s presence resonated deeply with the families of the victims as he expressed solidarity with a country still healing from the tragedy that left the waterfront in ruins.
As the pontiff arrived, relatives held photographs of their deceased loved ones, gathered in a somber display of remembrance. He paused to pray at a memorial and engaged with family members, a gesture that underscored his compassionate approach during his first international trip. The remnants of the blast, characterized by the charred grain silos and burnt vehicles scattered around the site, served as stark reminders of the destruction caused by the explosion of tons of ammonium nitrate stored improperly in a port warehouse.
Years after the incident, families of the victims remain frustrated with the stagnated investigation that has seen no individual held accountable, resulting in widespread public anger. Many view the explosion as emblematic of systemic failures throughout Lebanese governance. Cecile Roukoz, who lost her brother, articulated the need for an end to impunity, emphasizing that the tragedy should be acknowledged as a crime demanding justice.
During his stay, the pope urged leaders to seek truth and reconciliation to foster healing within the nation. In his homily, he addressed the extensive challenges faced by the Lebanese, including economic strife, the lingering impacts of the blast, and ongoing fears of further conflict. He encouraged citizens not to surrender to despair, asserting that justice is integral to the nation’s path forward.
At his final Mass, attended by an estimated 150,000 worshippers, Pope Leo reflected on the various hardships endured by the Lebanese, calling for unity amidst diversity. He implored them to cast aside divisions and work towards a hopeful future, emphasizing that peace and justice must prevail for Lebanon to thrive.
Additionally, the pope took time to visit the De La Croix hospital, a facility dedicated to mental health care. He was warmly welcomed by staff and residents, including children dressed as Swiss Guards. The hospital’s mission, to care for those often forgotten by society, resonated with the pope, who highlighted the importance of recognizing the vulnerable.
Many Lebanese citizens view this papal visit as a hopeful sign during a period marked by economic instability and political turmoil. Mireille Khoury, who lost her teenage son in the explosion, expressed the sentiment that the pope’s prayer and support could provide some comfort but emphasized that true peace would only come through justice.
The beleaguered nation has also witnessed calls for the preservation of the grain silos that survived the blast, a contentious topic among families who wish to keep the site as a memorial rather than allow its destruction. While the port is operational once more, complete restoration remains a distant goal.
In his farewell remarks at Beirut’s airport, Pope Leo acknowledged the ongoing conflict in southern Lebanon, expressing his hopes for peace in a region still under the shadow of violence and uncertainty. He implored citizens to seek dialogue over armed conflict, underlining the importance of peaceful resolution.
Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun expressed gratitude for the pope’s visit, emphasizing the resilience of the Lebanese people and their yearning for a life of dignity. As the nation grapples with its present challenges, Pope Leo XIV’s message of hope, justice, and peace has left an indelible mark on the hearts of many.