The son of two Canadians who were tragically killed in Lebanon is pleading with the Canadian government to take action and prevent more deaths.
In an emotional statement, 27-year-old George Saikaly expressed his grief and frustration over the loss of his parents, who were among the 200 people killed in the devastating explosion in Beirut last week.
“I don’t want to bury more people. I don’t want to see more families suffer like mine has,” Saikaly said.
His parents, John and Susan Saikaly, were visiting family in Lebanon when the explosion occurred. They were both killed instantly, leaving behind their son and two daughters.
Saikaly is now urging the Canadian government to do more to help the people of Lebanon, who are facing a humanitarian crisis in the aftermath of the explosion.
“I implore the Canadian government to take immediate action and provide aid to the people of Lebanon. They need our help now more than ever,” he said.
He also called on the government to pressure the Lebanese government to hold those responsible for the explosion accountable.
“We need justice for the victims and their families. We cannot let this tragedy go unpunished,” Saikaly said.
The explosion, which was caused by a large amount of ammonium nitrate stored at the port, has left thousands injured and displaced. It has also exacerbated the economic and political turmoil in the country.
The Canadian government has already pledged $5 million in aid to Lebanon and has sent a team of experts to assist with the recovery efforts. However, Saikaly believes more needs to be done.
“I know my parents would want to see Canada do everything in its power to help the people of Lebanon. They were proud Canadians and they would want their country to step up in this time of need,” he said.
Saikaly’s emotional plea has resonated with many Canadians, who are calling on the government to do more to support the people of Lebanon.
As the investigation into the explosion continues, Saikaly and other families of victims are left to mourn their loved ones and hope for justice.
But for Saikaly, the most important thing right now is to prevent more deaths and suffering.
“I don’t want any other family to go through what mine is going through. We need to act now before it’s too late,” he said.
