Why did Lebanon’s government face criticism after the 2020 Beirut explosion?

The Lebanese government faced intense criticism following the 2020 Beirut explosion primarily due to allegations of criminal negligence and systemic corruption. The disaster, which killed over 200 people, was caused by the improper storage of 2,750 tons of ammonium nitrate that had been impounded by the state in 2013.12

Despite repeated safety warnings from customs officials to high-ranking authorities, the hazardous material remained in a port warehouse for years. Following the blast, the public viewed the tragedy as a direct consequence of the ruling political establishment's incompetence and corrupt maneuvering.1

The government faced further backlash because:
* Lack of Accountability: Judicial efforts to hold officials responsible were repeatedly blocked, and no one has been held accountable for the tragedy.12
* Institutional Failure: The state failed to provide an adequate investigation, leading the United Nations and Amnesty International to call for an international fact-finding mission.1
* Political Instability: The explosion exacerbated existing crises, including economic collapse and political unrest, ultimately forcing the resignation of Prime Minister Hassan Diab and his cabinet.12