Investigation into Beirut blast ‘complex’
Lebanese President Michel Aoun has said the investigation into a devastating blast in Beirut is “very complex” and will not be finished quickly.
Responding to calls he step down, Mr Aoun said it would be “impossible” because it would create a power vacuum.
The cause of the fire that ignited nearly 3,000 tons of ammonium nitrate stored at Beirut’s port remains unclear.
Documents have emerged showing the country’s top leadership, including Mr Aoun, were aware of the chemicals that had been stored there for years.
The blast killed 180 people and wounded more than 6,000. At least 30 people are still missing.
Mr Aoun said the investigation would determine the circumstances surrounding cargo, where it came from and who shipped it and ho was responsible for handling and securing it.
“We had the determination to reach conclusions quickly but we found out that the issues are very complex and require time,” he said.