Beirut: Minister of Public Works and Transport, Fayez Rasamny, conducted an inspection tour of the Port of Beirut as part of the port's exceptional opening on Saturday and Monday, April 11 and 13, 2026, aimed at ensuring the continuity of commercial activity and the smooth flow of goods under current conditions. The tour was attended by Chairman and Director General of Beirut Port, Marwan Al-Naffi, Director General of the Container Terminal, Charlie Darazi, Chairman of the Higher Customs Council, Misbah Khalil, and Director General of Customs, Gracia Qazzi.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Rasamny began his remarks by praying for those who lost their lives recently and expressed wishes for a swift recovery to the injured, emphasizing the need to protect the country from all forms of aggression. The Public Works Minister confirmed that from the very start of the escalation, a decisive decision was made to keep the port open and work towards neutralizing public facilities, which are essential for the flow of goods and underpin food and health security for citizens.
Rasamny revealed a request was submitted for the port to operate continuously to accelerate container clearance and secure the country's needs, highlighting that current food security stocks are sufficient for three months, in coordination with Minister of Economy Amer Bisat. He also expressed gratitude to Finance Minister Yassine Jaber and CMA CGM for supporting the logistical operations at the port.
The Minister commended the Lebanese Civil Aviation Authority and Middle East Airlines for maintaining air traffic, especially for the transport of medicines and medical supplies. He noted the diligent work of freight forwarders, traders, military institutions, and all personnel across the ports of Beirut and Tripoli, the airport, and the Masnaa crossing, with approximately 600 transactions completed in the first three hours at Beirut Port, showcasing strong coordination among stakeholders.
Rasamny stressed his field presence, despite the official holiday, supports these efforts, reiterating the prioritization of food and health security. He announced reinforced security measures across vital facilities and ongoing contacts with international entities to safeguard and ensure the continuity of essential services.
Marwan Al-Naffi confirmed that security and safety measures at the port are at their highest levels, with operational teams fully prepared and work proceeding normally as per the Minister's directives. He noted that port activity is ongoing at a high pace, comparable to a regular working day, due to its responsibility in securing essential goods such as food and medicine. Al-Naffi reported that "Gate Out" operations recorded the exit of approximately 1,000 trucks carrying vital materials, emphasizing the efficiency of operations.
Al-Naffi concluded by affirming Beirut Port's commitment to its vital role, maintaining high safety and operational standards, and continuing to meet the needs of the Lebanese market under all circumstances.