Chris Hayes (Fowler, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

It has been one year since the catastrophic explosion that rocked Beirut. The tragedy affected many in Lebanon and, indeed, Lebanese here in Australia, who are still grieving for family and friends and who are certainly worried about their futures. In the immediate aftermath of the explosion we saw an enormous outpouring of support by the international community to support the Lebanese. One year on, however, it appears that Lebanon and its people have all but disappeared into a distant memory.

This explosion was the last straw for Lebanon, adding significantly to the ongoing turmoil: an economy that's on the brink, widespread corruption, homelessness and poverty. All this was in the midst of a global pandemic, certainly testing the Lebanese people like never before—despite their strength and resilience. We owe it to the families and friends of those who have lost loved ones to hold those responsible for this tragedy to account by supporting the call for an international independent investigation into the disaster.

My heart goes out to all those who are suffering and grieving. I pray for justice for the victims and their families, and for a future for Lebanon based on peace, safety and prosperity. To our vibrant Lebanese community I say that we have not and will not forget our Lebanese friends.