Lebanon held its first courtroom sessions inside Roumieh Prison on Tuesday, in what the Ministry of Justice described as a "milestone step" aimed at accelerating judicial procedures and easing the chronic overcrowding in the country’s largest detention facility.

The move follows a joint field visit by Justice Minister Adel Nassar and Interior Minister Ahmad Al-Hajjar to the newly designated courtroom inside the prison, as part of a broader initiative to streamline legal processes and safeguard the rights of detainees.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Justice, a total of 20 hearings were conducted on the first day. Verdicts were issued in seven of the cases, while the remaining sessions were adjourned for future rulings.

The ministry said the launch of in-prison court sessions represents a “practical step” that will help alleviate overcrowding and facilitate the administration of justice.

Justice Minister Nassar thanked his cabinet colleague, as well as judges, lawyers, and members of the Internal Security Forces, for their cooperation and commitment to the initiative.

“This achievement is the result of coordinated efforts among all relevant parties,” Nassar said. “It reflects a shared will to serve the interests of Lebanon, justice, and human rights.”