Justice Minister Adel Nassar from the National Bloc: No State Can Exist with Illegal Arms
As part of the “Jalse maa el ketle” series, the National Bloc hosted Justice Minister Judge Adel Nassar at its headquarters in Gemmayzeh for a discussion that addressed the key challenges facing state-building, judicial independence, and the investigation into the Beirut Port explosion.
During the session, Minister Nassar emphasized that illegal weapons remain the biggest obstacle to establishing a functioning state. He said:
"There can be no talk of reform, reconstruction, or even a true state while weapons exist outside the authority of the state. Before we discuss external pressures or dimensions, we must be clear: the problem is internal first and foremost. Illegal arms prevent the emergence of a fully realized state."
On regional dynamics, Nassar added:
"External pressures are beyond our control, but their consequences directly impact Lebanon's ability to recover. We need Arab and international support for the reconstruction process, while Iran, for example, seeks only to destabilize the region. Political pressure inside Lebanon must intensify, not diminish."
On judicial matters, Minister Nassar highlighted that the recent formation of the Higher Judicial Council was completed without any political interference. He stated:
"I challenge anyone to prove that any of the appointed judges were selected based on political affiliation or quotas. Political forces did not interfere and made no attempts to influence the appointments."
Regarding the investigation into the August 4 Beirut Port explosion, Nassar noted that improving the atmosphere within the judiciary and reducing political interference has enabled judges to act more independently, as seen in the case of the assassination of activist Lokman Slim.
"This climate allows the judiciary to work efficiently and independently, and it's vital that we preserve it," he said.
Speaking about investigative judge Tarek Bitar, Nassar affirmed that he had provided all possible support within his powers:
"I met with Judge Bitar twice and made it clear that I would put all resources within my authority at his disposal. I also helped facilitate the visit of French investigators to enhance cooperation and information exchange."
He concluded by stressing that the indictment in the August 4 case will not be issued until the investigation is fully complete:
"I understand the public pain and frustration with the delays, but deadlines cannot be imposed on judicial investigations. What matters is not symbolic timing, but the substance of the decision, that it be thorough and complete, not rushed or partial."