Two massive explosions in Beirut, capital of Lebanon, a country in western Asia on Tuesday has sent a panic wave across the country as death toll rises to almost 135 and the number of injured to over 5000.
Early investigation shows that the blasts were likely triggered by stockpiles of confiscated explosives such as Ammonium Nitrate stored in the port area. The blasts have rattled the city with its effect being felt as far as 100 miles away on the Mediterranean island of Cyprus. Following the blast, several people were left homeless, many are reported to be missing and the injured were seen staggering through the streets and being hurled out to the sea as the shock waves collapsed buildings and sent the seismic waves. The hospitals ran out of beds and equipment to attend to the wounded.
Rescue teams were seen pulling out bodies and hunting for people who went missing on Wednesday.
Prime Minister Hassa Diab declared mourning for three days from Thursday.
The disaster is a huge blow for the country, still going through the dreadful impact of the Civil War, economic meltdown, and now a surge in coronavirus infection.
Various offers of international support have been poured into Lebanon.
The Red Cross coordinated with the Health Ministry to set up morgues. The Gulf Arab States sent planes with medical equipment and other supplies. Iraq offered fuel aid and Iran, food, and a field hospital. Turkey has offered to send 20 doctors. The United States, Britain, and other western states also offered help to Lebanon. The explosions have also led to a food crisis in the country which was already struggling to feed the refugees fleeing conflict in Syria. The main grain silo of the country located in the port was also destroyed in the blast.
