Terrifying close-up video of the Beirut explosion [language warning] pic.twitter.com/NtEhQfLgdl
— Disrn (@DisrnNews) August 4, 2020
A massive explosion rocked Beirut, the capital city of Lebanon, today. The cause of the blast is not yet known.
Just received this video!!! Everyone stay safe. #Beirut pic.twitter.com/2t5a82Ha67
— Zaiنab Hijazi (@zainabhijazi97) August 4, 2020
Major blast at the International airport of Beirut, Lebanon. Just a reminder – this is where Israel said that Hezbollah is having its weapon percision assembly line. pic.twitter.com/DAdGUlzenQ
— Amir Tsarfati (@BeholdIsrael) August 4, 2020
At least 50 people have been confirmed killed, although officials fear that number will rise sharply as rescue efforts continue. At least 2,750 people have been reported injured.
Among the deceased is reportedly the leader of a poltical party. The explosion also considerably damaged the presidential palace.
Reports are that ammonium nitrate, a highly explosive compound commonly used in fertilizer, was being stored at the location.
The explosion left Beirut looking like a war zone.
Beirut is like war zone at the moment. The number of people died is unknown. There is a massive destruction in the city.
Our prayers are with Lebanese brothers and sisters. #Beirut #Lebanon pic.twitter.com/sVNlWVSxc2
— Selami Haktan (Eng) (@slmhktn_eng) August 4, 2020
Beirut explosion filmed from car pic.twitter.com/5jGlgc9POO
— Banana for Scale 🍌📏 (@scale_banana) August 5, 2020
The blast was felt 150 miles away and shattered glass in buildings several miles from the site.
Israel has denied any involvement in the explosion and has offered humanitarian aid.
Under the direction of Minister of Defense, Benny Gantz and Minister of Foreign Affairs, @Gabi_Ashkenazi, Israel approached Lebanon through international defense and diplomatic channels to offer the Lebanese government medical humanitarian aid.
— בני גנץ – Benny Gantz (@gantzbe) August 4, 2020