Did the USA Attack Beirut?
The question of whether the United States was involved in the Beirut port explosion in 2020 has been a topic of intense speculation and investigation. In summary, all evidence points to the Beirut port explosion being the result of systemic incompetence rather than an intentional attack by any external entity. This article will delve into the facts and dispel some common myths surrounding the incident.
Why It Was Not an Attack
The explosion, which occurred on August 4, 2020, in Beirut, was not an attack but an industrial disaster resulting from the negligent storage of ammonium nitrate. All indications are that the explosion was a tragic accident rather than a deliberate act of sabotage involving nations such as the United States, Syria, Israel, ISIS, or Hezbollah.
The Incident: A Lesson in Systemic Failure
On the night of the explosion, roughly 2,700 tons of ammonium nitrate, a highly explosive substance, were stored in a flimsy warehouse in Beirut, Lebanon, for six years. The building was almost in the heart of the capital city, and it was not isolated or equipped with proper safety measures.
The ammonium nitrate was brought in from a Moldovan ship in 2014 and was destined for Mozambique but was instead stored in Beirut. Despite six letters from port officials warning of potential dangers and advising for its removal, the stored material remained in place. This inaction points to a severe lack of awareness and responsibility among those in charge.
Blaming External Factors: A Diversion from Local Failures
Many tend to deflect responsibility by blaming external actors, such as Israel or the United States. However, such accusations ignore the fundamental issue of local mismanagement and negligence. Storing such a large quantity of explosive material without proper safety measures is inexcusable, and the Lebanese government and its officials bear a significant amount of culpability.
The presence of warplanes nearby, often reported by eyewitnesses, adds another layer of complexity. However, these reports are not without question, and the automatic assumption that these could be Israeli warplanes should be met with skepticism. The explanation for their presence could simply be coincidental or tied to broader security concerns in the volatile region.
The Economics of Lebanon
Local experts argue that the explosion not only had tragic human and environmental consequences but also dealt a significant blow to Lebanon's economy. The Beirut port, a critical hub in the Middle East, and Lebanon's banking system are two of the country's main economic pillars. The explosion coincided with the near-collapse of Lebanon's banking system, raising suspicions about a coordinated attack aiming to destabilize the nation.
Given the interconnectedness of these economic sectors, it is unlikely that the explosion was a coincidence. The timing and the nature of the incident suggest that there might be more to the story than meets the eye. While current investigations have not found evidence of a deliberate act, ongoing investigations could uncover additional facts that might shed more light on the event.
Conclusion: The Beirut port explosion was a tragic accident resulting from systemic incompetence and neglect. While it is easy to fall into conspiracy theories, it is essential to focus on factual evidence and not let speculation cloud our judgment. Only through a clear understanding of the facts can we work towards a safer future for Lebanon and its neighbors.