British Ambassador Ian Collard delivered a video speech on Beirut port explosion’s first memorial and said: “One year after the horrific port explosion that destroyed Beirut, we share the Lebanese people the sense of destruction and loss and the search for justice. We renew our continuing calls for Lebanese leaders to successfully achieve a fair and transparent investigation into last year’s explosion and a real accountability. Only through this we can reach a closure for the victims, their families, and all the people who are still suffering. Justice should not be delayed.”

He added: “during the short time for me in Beirut, I heard stories of pain and suffering, but also, of hope, as people continue to heal their wounds and restore their destroyed homes and businesses. Today, as I stand near the port of Beirut, I want to pay tribute to the heroism and sacrifice of those who were  on the front lines on August 4, 2020, from the Lebanese and Palestinian Civil Defense, the Red Cross and the Lebanese Army, doctors, nurses, volunteers, unknown soldiers, firefighters and many others.”

He concluded: “During Beirut’s most needy time, the UK was among the first international partners to respond to the explosion. We will continue to stand by the Lebanese people.”