International Support Group: We urge the Lebanese Parliament to strengthen judicial independence

On the eve of the anniversary of the port explosion, members of the International Support Group for Lebanon expressed their solidarity with the families of the victims and all those whose lives and livelihoods have been affected. The group expressed deep concern over the rapidly deteriorating economic situation, which has severely harmed all segments of Lebanese society, its institutions, and services. They urged Lebanese authorities to take national responsibility and to take all possible steps promptly to improve living conditions for the Lebanese people. The group also welcomed the upcoming conference to be co-hosted by France and the United Nations to address the humanitarian needs of the most vulnerable groups in Lebanon. They urged authorities to expedite the completion of the investigation into the port explosion to uncover the truth and achieve justice. Additionally, the group called on Lebanese leaders to promptly provide support to form a government with the powers to implement effective reforms, emphasizing the importance of conducting elections on schedule to preserve Lebanon's democracy and to restore the trust and hope of the Lebanese people. The group includes the United Nations, the governments of China, France, Germany, Italy, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom, the United States, the European Union, and the Arab League. It was launched in September 2013 by the UN Secretary-General and former President Michel Sleiman to mobilize support and assistance for Lebanon's stability, sovereignty, and state institutions.