Salam Calls for Accountability Following Incident at Jeita Grotto
11/4/2025 5:35:00 PM
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam condemned the recent incident at Jeita Grotto, stressing that any tampering with Lebanon’s natural heritage is “completely unacceptable.”
In a statement posted on X, Salam noted that, according to the Ministry of Tourism, no written authorization had been issued for the activities that took place inside the grotto, nor was the Lebanese Speleological Club consulted, as is required.
Salam said he has instructed the relevant authorities to open an investigation to determine responsibility and ensure accountability for any violations of legal procedures or the terms of the contract governing the site’s management.
He also reiterated the importance of adhering to the directive he issued in September, which requires all public administrations, institutions, municipalities, and concerned agencies to enforce laws regulating the use of public land, whether on land or at sea, as well as archaeological and touristic sites and public buildings.
“Lebanon’s natural treasures must be protected,” Salam said, emphasizing that no breach of regulations related to their preservation will be tolerated.
In a statement posted on X, Salam noted that, according to the Ministry of Tourism, no written authorization had been issued for the activities that took place inside the grotto, nor was the Lebanese Speleological Club consulted, as is required.
Salam said he has instructed the relevant authorities to open an investigation to determine responsibility and ensure accountability for any violations of legal procedures or the terms of the contract governing the site’s management.
He also reiterated the importance of adhering to the directive he issued in September, which requires all public administrations, institutions, municipalities, and concerned agencies to enforce laws regulating the use of public land, whether on land or at sea, as well as archaeological and touristic sites and public buildings.
“Lebanon’s natural treasures must be protected,” Salam said, emphasizing that no breach of regulations related to their preservation will be tolerated.