Maronite Patriarch Bechara Boutros Rahi received Justice Minister Adel Nassar at the Patriarchal See in Bkerke. Minister Nassar said the visit was to extend New Year greetings, receive a blessing, and discuss urgent national developments, stressing that the judiciary has resumed its work despite difficult circumstances.

Nassar confirmed that work is continuing on the investigation into the Beirut port explosion under Judge Tarek Bitar, noting that full support is being provided to facilitate the probe.

Commenting on the appointment of Gracia Azzi as Director General of Customs, Nassar said he objected to the promotion despite his adherence to the presumption of innocence, considering the timing inappropriate.

He emphasized the independence of the judicial process, adding that Prime Minister Nawaf Salam had been clear that the stance does not constitute interference, and that any convicted individual would face full legal measures.

Nassar also highlighted strong cooperation between Lebanese and foreign judiciaries, praised Judge Jamal Hajjar, and reaffirmed his commitment to keeping politics out of judicial appointments, crediting Judge Suhail Abboud with safeguarding judicial independence under the most challenging conditions.