&nbsp;An arms depot of the Iran-backed Hezbollah exploded in southern&nbsp;Lebanon&nbsp;on Tuesday, a security source said, injuring several people and sending a new shockwave across a nation grappling with its deepest crisis in three decades.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/country-will-go-to-hell-unless-cabinet-formed-warns-lebanon-president-aoun-329360">Also read: Country will go 'to hell' unless cabinet formed, warns Lebanon President Aoun</a>

The security source said the arms depot blast, which sent a huge column of black smoke into the sky, was caused by a "technical error".

The explosion rocked the village of Ain Qana in south&nbsp;Lebanon, a region that is a political stronghold of the heavily armed and politically powerful group which has fought wars with neighbouring Israel.

The blast has further rattled a nation grappling with its worst crisis since the 1975-1990 civil war and still reeling from a devastating explosion at Beirut port that ripped through the capital, killing at least 190 people.

Since the Beirut blast on Aug. 4, subsequent fires at the port and elsewhere in the capital have caused panic in Beirut and across the country, whose economy is in meltdown while politicians have yet to agree on how to form a new government.

The previous government resigned after Beirut blast and is acting in a caretaker capacity. Forming the new cabinet has hit a logjam as Hezbollah and its main Shi'ite ally have demanded they name the finance and some other ministers.

Another security source said Hezbollah had set up a security cordon around Tuesday's blast site, about 50 km (30 miles) south of Beirut. Journalists were prevented from approaching the area.

There was no immediate statement from Hezbollah. The group's television channel Al Manar said in a news broadcast that the cause of the blast was still not clear.

Security sources said there were several injuries without giving figures.

A witness near the village said they felt the ground shake.

Footage from the area broadcast by Al-Jadeed showed men walking over scorched ground littered with debris. Damage was shown in an adjacent house where the floor was covered in glass and what appeared to be a pool of blood.

At least one fire was still burning in the location, the footage showed.

An arms depot of the Iran-backed Hezbollah exploded in southern Lebanon on Tuesday, a security source said, injuring several people and sending a new shockwave across a nation grappling with its deepest crisis in three decades.

An arms depot of the Iran-backed Hezbollah exploded in southern Lebanon on Tuesday, a security source said, injuring several people and sending a new shockwave across a nation grappling with its deepest crisis in three decades. Also read: Country will go 'to hell' unless cabinet formed, warns Lebanon President Aoun The security source said the arms depot blast, which sent a huge column of black smoke into the sky, was caused by a "technical error". The explosion rocked the village of Ain Qana in south Lebanon, a region that is a political stronghold of the heavily armed and politically powerful group which has fought wars with neighbouring Israel. The blast has further rattled a nation grappling with its worst crisis since the 1975-1990 civil war and still reeling from a devastating explosion at Beirut port that ripped through the capital, killing at least 190 people. Since the Beirut blast on Aug. 4, subsequent fires at the port and elsewhere in the capital have caused panic in Beirut and across the country, whose economy is in meltdown while politicians have yet to agree on how to form a new government. The previous government resigned after Beirut blast and is acting in a caretaker capacity. Forming the new cabinet has hit a logjam as Hezbollah and its main Shi'ite ally have demanded they name the finance and some other ministers. Another security source said Hezbollah had set up a security cordon around Tuesday's blast site, about 50 km (30 miles) south of Beirut. Journalists were prevented from approaching the area. There was no immediate statement from Hezbollah. The group's television channel Al Manar said in a news broadcast that the cause of the blast was still not clear. Security sources said there were several injuries without giving figures. A witness near the village said they felt the ground shake. Footage from the area broadcast by Al-Jadeed showed men walking over scorched ground littered with debris. Damage was shown in an adjacent house where the floor was covered in glass and what appeared to be a pool of blood. At least one fire was still burning in the location, the footage showed.

Arms depot of Hezbollah explodes in Lebanon, several injured

Rescue workers on Saturday said that there was no longer hope of finding someone alive more than a month after a massive port explosion shattered Lebanon's capital.

Rescue workers on Saturday said that there was no longer hope of finding someone alive more than a month after a massive port explosion shattered Lebanon's capital. These workers have been digging through the rubble of a Beirut building for the third day. Around 50 workers and volunteers, including a specialist team from Chile, had worked for three days to locate anyone after sensors on Thursday detected signs of breathing and heat. "Technically speaking, there are no signs of life," Francisco Lermanta, the head of volunteer rescue group Topos Chile, said in a news conference on Saturday evening, adding that rescuers had combed 95 per cent of the building. According to Lermanta, signs of life in the rubble were detected in the past two days and breaths of fellow rescuers already inside the building picked up by their sensitive equipment. However, he said that now the workers will be focusing on clearing the rubble and finding remains. "We never stop with even one percent of hope," Lermanta said, of finding a body. "We never stop until the job is done." The explosion on August 4 obliterated part of the port and caused damage over a wide radius in the heart of the city. It killed about 190 people, injured 6,000 more Officials blamed the blast on a huge stockpile of highly explosive material stored for years in unsafe conditions at the port. Up to a quarter of a million people were left without homes fit to live in, officials said, after shockwaves smashed building facades, sucked furniture out into streets and shattered windows miles inland. Residential districts of Gemmayze and Mar Mikhael were among the hardest hit as home to many old buildings that crumbled as the shockwave ripped through. Work was slow, rescue workers said earlier in the day, as the badly damaged building was at risk of complete collapse. "The building is really crumbling, it's scary and there's a lot of danger to the team," Abou Moussa said. Workers used shovels and their hands to dig, while mechanical diggers and a crane lifted heavy debris. Scanning equipment was also used to create 3D images of the wrecked building. (Inputs from Agency)

'No signs of life' in rubble after three-day search for Beirut blast survivors: Rescue workers

The Middle East's 21 billionaires have amassed $63 million every day since March, a combined bounty double the amount needed to repair the damage caused by the Beirut port blast, Oxfam said Thursday.

The region's 21 richest men "saw their wealth increase by nearly $10 billion since the start of the COVID-19 crisis," the report stated.

Oxfam said its figures were the result of a comparison between their net wealth as listed by Forbes on March 18 and on August 16.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/satellite-images-capture-beirut-before-vs-after-devastating-blast-318562">Satellite images capture Beirut before vs after devastating blast</a>

It said the resulting amount represented twice the emergency funds provided to the region by the International Monetary Fund to combat the coronavirus pandemic.

It also amounts to double what is needed to repair the material damage done to property in Beirut by a huge, deadly August 4 blast at the port, according to accountancy firm PwC.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/explosion-decimates-beiruts-port-disrupting-the-struggling-countrys-lifeline-318312">Explosion decimates Beirut's port, disrupting the struggling country's lifeline</a>

"For too long profit has been prioritised at the expense of the public good and safety," said Nabil Abdo, Oxfam's senior policy advisor in the Middle East and North Africa.

"The result of this could not be starker in the aftermath of the catastrophic explosion in Beirut, which has further exposed the fragility of the economy and will only exacerbate existing inequalities," he said.

The Beirut port explosion, one of the largest such blasts in recent history, killed more than 180 people, injured more than 6,000 and destroyed property within a radius of several miles.

The blast, the exact causes of which remained to be determined, has been widely blamed on the greed and incompetence of Lebanon's ruling class.

The Middle East's 21 billionaires have amassed $63 million every day since March, a combined bounty double the amount needed to repair the damage caused by the Beirut port blast, Oxfam said Thursday.

The Middle East's 21 billionaires have amassed $63 million every day since March, a combined bounty double the amount needed to repair the damage caused by the Beirut port blast, Oxfam said Thursday. The region's 21 richest men "saw their wealth increase by nearly $10 billion since the start of the COVID-19 crisis," the report stated. Oxfam said its figures were the result of a comparison between their net wealth as listed by Forbes on March 18 and on August 16. Also see: Satellite images capture Beirut before vs after devastating blast It said the resulting amount represented twice the emergency funds provided to the region by the International Monetary Fund to combat the coronavirus pandemic. It also amounts to double what is needed to repair the material damage done to property in Beirut by a huge, deadly August 4 blast at the port, according to accountancy firm PwC. Also see: Explosion decimates Beirut's port, disrupting the struggling country's lifeline "For too long profit has been prioritised at the expense of the public good and safety," said Nabil Abdo, Oxfam's senior policy advisor in the Middle East and North Africa. "The result of this could not be starker in the aftermath of the catastrophic explosion in Beirut, which has further exposed the fragility of the economy and will only exacerbate existing inequalities," he said. The Beirut port explosion, one of the largest such blasts in recent history, killed more than 180 people, injured more than 6,000 and destroyed property within a radius of several miles. The blast, the exact causes of which remained to be determined, has been widely blamed on the greed and incompetence of Lebanon's ruling class.

Middle East billionaires earned double cost of Beirut repairs in weeks: Report

Sursock Palace, 19th century landmark, destroyed in Beirut blasts

Lebanon Prime Minister Hassan Diab will announce his government's resignation after four cabinet minister's resigned amid protests over the Beirut blasts, newswire AFP reported.

A fourth minister in Lebanon PM&nbsp;Diab's&nbsp;cabinet resigned today as&nbsp;protests continued in the aftermath of the Beirut blasts last week.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-lebanons-justice-minister-quits-amid-protests-over-beirut-blasts-319462">Also Read: Now, Lebanon's justice minister quits amid protests over Beirut blasts</a>

Lebanon finance minister Ghazi Wazni became the fourth government minister to resign after Lebanon's justice minister Marie Claude Najem had handed over her resignation to Prime Minister Hassan Diab.

Watch:

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Information minister Manal Abdel Samad and environment minister Damianos Kattar had earlier resigned on Sunday as protests escalated over the Beirut blasts in which 158 people had died and several thousand were injured.

Marie Claude Najem had earlier visited the blast site as she was met by angry protesters promoting her to resign. French President Macron had visited the site last week before any of the government minister's as people vented their anger and urged the French president to intervene.

Macron has promised aid which would directly reach the people. On Sunday, the French president was able to pledge support of 250 million euros from world leaders even as aid workers on the ground continue to work around the blast site.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Hassan Diab had earlier suggested early elections but protesters have been in no mood to relent amid economic turmoil and the coronavirus crisis which has hit the nation amid the blasts.

Lebanon Prime Minister Hassan Diab will announce his government's resignation after four cabinet minister's resigned amid protests over the Beirut blasts, newswire AFP reported.

Lebanon Prime Minister Hassan Diab will announce his government's resignation after four cabinet minister's resigned amid protests over the Beirut blasts, newswire AFP reported. A fourth minister in Lebanon PM Diab's cabinet resigned today as protests continued in the aftermath of the Beirut blasts last week. Also Read: Now, Lebanon's justice minister quits amid protests over Beirut blasts Lebanon finance minister Ghazi Wazni became the fourth government minister to resign after Lebanon's justice minister Marie Claude Najem had handed over her resignation to Prime Minister Hassan Diab. Watch: Information minister Manal Abdel Samad and environment minister Damianos Kattar had earlier resigned on Sunday as protests escalated over the Beirut blasts in which 158 people had died and several thousand were injured. Marie Claude Najem had earlier visited the blast site as she was met by angry protesters promoting her to resign. French President Macron had visited the site last week before any of the government minister's as people vented their anger and urged the French president to intervene. Macron has promised aid which would directly reach the people. On Sunday, the French president was able to pledge support of 250 million euros from world leaders even as aid workers on the ground continue to work around the blast site. Prime Minister Hassan Diab had earlier suggested early elections but protesters have been in no mood to relent amid economic turmoil and the coronavirus crisis which has hit the nation amid the blasts.

Beirut blasts: Lebanon Prime Minister Hassan Diab to announce government's resignation

The wife of Dutch ambassador to Lebanon Jan Waltmans has died of wounds sustained in the Beirut bomb explosion, the Netherlands' foreign ministry said Saturday.

"It is with dismay and great sadness that we report the death of our colleague Hedwig Waltmans-Molier. She succumbed to injuries sustained in the massive explosion in Beirut," a ministry statement said.

Waltmans-Molier was hit by debris from the explosion shortly after returning back to Lebanon from holiday with her husband of 38 years.

"Hedwig was standing in her living room next to her husband when she was hit, sheerly by bad lack, by the explosion," the ministry said.

The 55-year-old was the only Dutch citizen reported to have died from the explosion that rocked&nbsp;Beirut on Tuesday, killing at least 154 and devastating swathes of the capital.

Five other Dutch citizens were slightly injured, the ministry said.

The wife of Dutch ambassador to Lebanon Jan Waltmans has died of wounds sustained in the Beirut bomb explosion, the Netherlands' foreign ministry said Saturday. "It is with dismay and great sadness that we report the death of our colleague Hedwig Waltmans-Molier.

The wife of Dutch ambassador to Lebanon Jan Waltmans has died of wounds sustained in the Beirut bomb explosion, the Netherlands' foreign ministry said Saturday. "It is with dismay and great sadness that we report the death of our colleague Hedwig Waltmans-Molier. She succumbed to injuries sustained in the massive explosion in Beirut," a ministry statement said. Waltmans-Molier was hit by debris from the explosion shortly after returning back to Lebanon from holiday with her husband of 38 years. "Hedwig was standing in her living room next to her husband when she was hit, sheerly by bad lack, by the explosion," the ministry said. The 55-year-old was the only Dutch citizen reported to have died from the explosion that rocked Beirut on Tuesday, killing at least 154 and devastating swathes of the capital. Five other Dutch citizens were slightly injured, the ministry said.

Dutch ambassador's wife, injured in Beirut explosion, dies: Netherlands

French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday&nbsp;urged the donor countries to act "quickly and effectively" to assist Lebanon in the aftermath of the massive explosion at the port of Beirut.

Macron's message came at a&nbsp;UN-backed virtual conference to drum up aid for Lebanon,.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-information-minister-quits-in-wake-of-beirut-explosion-319243" hreflang="en">Lebanon information minister quits in wake of Beirut explosion</a>

"The objective today is to act quickly and effectively to coordinate our aid on the ground so that it goes as efficiently as possible to the Lebanese people," he said opening the conference to help the country back on its feet.

"It is up to the authorities of the country to act so that the country does not sink, and to respond to the aspirations that the Lebanese people are expressing right now, legitimately, in the streets of Beirut," Macron said.

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"We must all work together to ensure that neither violence nor chaos prevails," he added. "It is the future of Lebanon that is at stake."

The explosion in Beirut killed over 150 people and wounded 6,000. The country was a debt-laden economy was already mired in crisis and reeling from the coronavirus pandemic before the port explosion. It has left nearly 300,000 people homeless, razing businesses and destroying critical grain supplies.

Rebuilding Beirut is estimated to take billions of dollars. Economists forecast the blast could wipe up to 25 per cent off of the country's GDP.

Macron was the first world leader to visit Lebanon after the explosion and promised humanitarian aid would come but that profound political reform was needed to resolve the country's problems and secure longer-term support.

"I guarantee you, this (reconstruction) aid will not go to corrupt hands," Macron said.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday urged the donor countries to act "quickly and effectively" to assist Lebanon in the aftermath of the massive explosion at the port of Beirut.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday urged the donor countries to act "quickly and effectively" to assist Lebanon in the aftermath of the massive explosion at the port of Beirut. Macron's message came at a UN-backed virtual conference to drum up aid for Lebanon,. Also read: Lebanon information minister quits in wake of Beirut explosion "The objective today is to act quickly and effectively to coordinate our aid on the ground so that it goes as efficiently as possible to the Lebanese people," he said opening the conference to help the country back on its feet. "It is up to the authorities of the country to act so that the country does not sink, and to respond to the aspirations that the Lebanese people are expressing right now, legitimately, in the streets of Beirut," Macron said. × "We must all work together to ensure that neither violence nor chaos prevails," he added. "It is the future of Lebanon that is at stake." The explosion in Beirut killed over 150 people and wounded 6,000. The country was a debt-laden economy was already mired in crisis and reeling from the coronavirus pandemic before the port explosion. It has left nearly 300,000 people homeless, razing businesses and destroying critical grain supplies. Rebuilding Beirut is estimated to take billions of dollars. Economists forecast the blast could wipe up to 25 per cent off of the country's GDP. Macron was the first world leader to visit Lebanon after the explosion and promised humanitarian aid would come but that profound political reform was needed to resolve the country's problems and secure longer-term support. "I guarantee you, this (reconstruction) aid will not go to corrupt hands," Macron said.

'Lebanon's future at stake': Macron tells donor countries during UN-backed conference

A policeman was killed during the clashes with protesters, when they stormed Lebanese government ministries in Beirut and trashed the offices of the Association of Lebanese Banks on Saturday. Shots rang out in increasingly angry demonstrations over this week's devastating explosion.

The protesters said their politicians should resign and be punished for negligence they say led to Tuesday’s blast, the biggest ever to hit Beirut, that killed 158 people and injured more than 6,000.

The said policeman at the scene said the officer died when he fell into an elevator shaft in a nearby building after being chased by protesters. The Red Cross said it had treated 117 people for injuries on the scene while another 55 were taken to hospital. Policemen wounded by stones were treated by ambulance workers. A fire broke out in central Martyrs' Square.

Police fired tear gas when some protesters tried to break through the barrier blocking a street leading to parliament, a Reuters journalist said.

Police confirmed shots and rubber bullets had been fired.

TV footage showed protesters also breaking into the energy and economy ministries. They chanted "the people want the fall of the regime", reprising a popular chant from the Arab Spring uprisings of 2011. They held posters saying "Leave, you are all killers".

The U.S. Embassy in Beirut said the U.S. government supported the demonstrators` right to peaceful protest and urged all involved to refrain from violence.

The embassy also said in a tweet that the Lebanese people "deserved leaders who listen to them and change course to respond to popular demands for transparency and accountability".

Prime Minister Hassan Diab said the only way out was early parliamentary elections.

Tuesday`s blast was the biggest in Beirut`s history. Twenty-one people were still reported as missing from the explosion, which gutted entire neighbourhoods.

The government has promised to hold those responsible to account.

"Resign or hang," said one banner at the demonstration.

The prime minister and presidency have said 2,750 tonnes of highly explosive ammonium nitrate, which is used in making fertilisers and bombs, had been stored for six years without safety measures at the port warehouse.

French President Emmanuel Macron flew from Paris and went straight to the scene to pay his tribute. He promised aid to rebuild the city would not fall into "corrupt hands". He will host a donor conference for Lebanon via video link on Sunday, his office said. U.S. President Donald Trump said that he will join. 
&nbsp;

A policeman was killed during the clashes with protesters, when they stormed Lebanese government ministries in Beirut and trashed the offices of the Association of Lebanese Banks on Saturday.

A policeman was killed during the clashes with protesters, when they stormed Lebanese government ministries in Beirut and trashed the offices of the Association of Lebanese Banks on Saturday. Shots rang out in increasingly angry demonstrations over this week's devastating explosion. The protesters said their politicians should resign and be punished for negligence they say led to Tuesday’s blast, the biggest ever to hit Beirut, that killed 158 people and injured more than 6,000. The said policeman at the scene said the officer died when he fell into an elevator shaft in a nearby building after being chased by protesters. The Red Cross said it had treated 117 people for injuries on the scene while another 55 were taken to hospital. Policemen wounded by stones were treated by ambulance workers. A fire broke out in central Martyrs' Square. Police fired tear gas when some protesters tried to break through the barrier blocking a street leading to parliament, a Reuters journalist said. Police confirmed shots and rubber bullets had been fired. TV footage showed protesters also breaking into the energy and economy ministries. They chanted "the people want the fall of the regime", reprising a popular chant from the Arab Spring uprisings of 2011. They held posters saying "Leave, you are all killers". The U.S. Embassy in Beirut said the U.S. government supported the demonstrators` right to peaceful protest and urged all involved to refrain from violence. The embassy also said in a tweet that the Lebanese people "deserved leaders who listen to them and change course to respond to popular demands for transparency and accountability". Prime Minister Hassan Diab said the only way out was early parliamentary elections. Tuesday`s blast was the biggest in Beirut`s history. Twenty-one people were still reported as missing from the explosion, which gutted entire neighbourhoods. The government has promised to hold those responsible to account. "Resign or hang," said one banner at the demonstration. The prime minister and presidency have said 2,750 tonnes of highly explosive ammonium nitrate, which is used in making fertilisers and bombs, had been stored for six years without safety measures at the port warehouse. French President Emmanuel Macron flew from Paris and went straight to the scene to pay his tribute. He promised aid to rebuild the city would not fall into "corrupt hands". He will host a donor conference for Lebanon via video link on Sunday, his office said. U.S. President Donald Trump said that he will join.

Anger over Beirut blast grows; policeman killed in clashes with protesters

The explosion that ripped through Beirut this week handed a resurgent protest movement an unexpected and brief victory Saturday, almost literally breaking down the doors of the foreign ministry.

The famed imperial staircase at the ministry's entrance was packed with some 200 demonstrators and retired army officers, who called the ministry the new headquarters of their uprising -- before soldiers arrived three hours later to force everybody out.

Some brandished nooses in a display of seething anger over a deadly Tuesday blast that killed more than 150 people and wounded at least 6,000.

The explosion that disfigured the city and shocked the world is widely perceived as a direct consequence of the incompetence and corruption that have come to define Lebanon's ruling class.

At first, "there were about 100 of us," said Tony Kayrouz, one of a group of retired army officers who led the takeover.

"There were a few policemen manning the gate, they opened it, and we entered, there were no scuffles," Kayrouz told AFP.

The retired army officers were led by a former general who once answered to President Michel Aoun, when he was the country's military chief in the 1980's.

"President Michel Aoun did not respect his oath" said General Samer Rammah, who led the small group.

"I had hope in Aoun," the general said, but now, "this republic is run like a farm."

Rammah and retired army officers have been a mainstay of a protest movement that started in October to demand the removal of a political class deemed inept and corrupt.

Many are boiling in anger over the country's economic woes, which include the collapse of the Lebanese pound that has devalued their pensions.

"Our pensions are now worth 20 or 40 dollars (a month), while deputies and the ministers eat away at the country", one retired soldier said.

"The people must reclaim what is theirs".

- 'Capital of the revolution' -

Demonstrators at the ministry unfurled a banner that covered the entire facade of the building.

"Beirut, capital of the revolution," it read.

"Congratulations, we have reclaimed the ministry," rejoiced one protester.

Beneath elegant wall engravings, protesters pulled Aoun's portrait off the wall and smashed it on the ground, where it was repeatedly stepped on.

Portraits of every top diplomat that ever headed the ministry were arranged on a wall cracked by the blast, but one former foreign minister was missing: Gebran Bassil, Aoun's son-in-law and head of the Free Patriotic Movement, founded by the president.

Bassil was one of the main targets of October's protest movement and has since become a highly reviled figure among activists and demonstrators.

It was not clear if his picture was dislodged by the blast or removed by protestors who stormed the foreign ministry on Saturday.

Visitors relished the takeover, posing behind a pulpit usually used for diplomatic press conferences. Others wandered into conference rooms and offices, where they snapped selfies.

"This is where Gebran Bassil once sat," scoffed one protester, pointing to a stylish sofa lacking an armrest.

"Isn't there any other ministry we could storm?" quipped another, as groups raided the nearby ministries of energy and the economy.

But the foreign ministry takeover was cut short when a large army reinforcement muscled in, forcing everyone out.

The explosion that ripped through Beirut this week handed a resurgent protest movement an unexpected and brief victory Saturday, almost literally breaking down the doors of the foreign ministry.

The explosion that ripped through Beirut this week handed a resurgent protest movement an unexpected and brief victory Saturday, almost literally breaking down the doors of the foreign ministry. The famed imperial staircase at the ministry's entrance was packed with some 200 demonstrators and retired army officers, who called the ministry the new headquarters of their uprising -- before soldiers arrived three hours later to force everybody out. Some brandished nooses in a display of seething anger over a deadly Tuesday blast that killed more than 150 people and wounded at least 6,000. The explosion that disfigured the city and shocked the world is widely perceived as a direct consequence of the incompetence and corruption that have come to define Lebanon's ruling class. At first, "there were about 100 of us," said Tony Kayrouz, one of a group of retired army officers who led the takeover. "There were a few policemen manning the gate, they opened it, and we entered, there were no scuffles," Kayrouz told AFP. The retired army officers were led by a former general who once answered to President Michel Aoun, when he was the country's military chief in the 1980's. "President Michel Aoun did not respect his oath" said General Samer Rammah, who led the small group. "I had hope in Aoun," the general said, but now, "this republic is run like a farm." Rammah and retired army officers have been a mainstay of a protest movement that started in October to demand the removal of a political class deemed inept and corrupt. Many are boiling in anger over the country's economic woes, which include the collapse of the Lebanese pound that has devalued their pensions. "Our pensions are now worth 20 or 40 dollars (a month), while deputies and the ministers eat away at the country", one retired soldier said. "The people must reclaim what is theirs". - 'Capital of the revolution' - Demonstrators at the ministry unfurled a banner that covered the entire facade of the building. "Beirut, capital of the revolution," it read. "Congratulations, we have reclaimed the ministry," rejoiced one protester. Beneath elegant wall engravings, protesters pulled Aoun's portrait off the wall and smashed it on the ground, where it was repeatedly stepped on. Portraits of every top diplomat that ever headed the ministry were arranged on a wall cracked by the blast, but one former foreign minister was missing: Gebran Bassil, Aoun's son-in-law and head of the Free Patriotic Movement, founded by the president. Bassil was one of the main targets of October's protest movement and has since become a highly reviled figure among activists and demonstrators. It was not clear if his picture was dislodged by the blast or removed by protestors who stormed the foreign ministry on Saturday. Visitors relished the takeover, posing behind a pulpit usually used for diplomatic press conferences. Others wandered into conference rooms and offices, where they snapped selfies. "This is where Gebran Bassil once sat," scoffed one protester, pointing to a stylish sofa lacking an armrest. "Isn't there any other ministry we could storm?" quipped another, as groups raided the nearby ministries of energy and the economy. But the foreign ministry takeover was cut short when a large army reinforcement muscled in, forcing everyone out.

How Beirut blast briefly handed foreign ministry to protesters

The massive explosion in Beirut killed over 150 people and injured 5,000 others on Tuesday. It also caused an estimated $3 billion in damage and leaving 300,000 people homeless in an instant.

The loss is unprecedented as it is huge. To this end, social media users have taken to educate their fellow countrymen about the extent of the damage caused by Tuesday’s ammonium nitrate explosion in Beirut.

They have started a new viral trend -- exploring how major cities in their countries would be affected if they were rocked by a blast of similar magnitude.

The trend has seen participation from people from Los Angeles, Hong Kong, London, Prague, Chicago, Cork, Kathmandu, and many others.

These users contextualised the scale of the disaster, and also raised money for disaster relief.

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1/x This morning I woke up to see viral maps incorrectly comparing the damage area of the Beirut explosion to London and New York. I have corrected the maps with a little thread to explain my corrections. img 1. tweet with my notes. img 2-4. my new maps. <a href="https://t.co/nz9Q1X0wLt">pic.twitter.com/nz9Q1X0wLt</a>
— Joanna Merson (@JoannaMerson) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoannaMerson/status/1291095463119056896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Terrifying map reveals what the Beirut explosion would've looked like if the closest Ammonium Nitrate depot in Toronto exploded <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Toronto?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Toronto</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/torontorealestate?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#torontorealestate</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BeirutBlast?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BeirutBlast</a> <a href="https://t.co/2qHVcDxETn">pic.twitter.com/2qHVcDxETn</a>
— Steve (@gabberghoul) <a href="https://twitter.com/gabberghoul/status/1291525321402003457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Okay though, seriously, here's what it would look like if a ship full were unloaded in the Portlands <a href="https://t.co/kZyzGsiP4V">pic.twitter.com/kZyzGsiP4V</a>
— Steve (@gabberghoul) <a href="https://twitter.com/gabberghoul/status/1291525772629413897?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Comparable - Halifax to Beirut explosions via maps <a href="https://t.co/r2NCwpa15I">pic.twitter.com/r2NCwpa15I</a>
— 🇨🇦🍁Cheryl🍁🇨🇦CANADA🍁🇨🇦 (@mini_bubbly) <a href="https://twitter.com/mini_bubbly/status/1290804168135827456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Beirut blast was so intense that Cyprus felt its tremor 240 km away. To understand the force, I tried translating the impact on Nepal's map. If Narayanhiti (KTM) were the center, the tremor would be felt in six-eight districts surrounding Kathmandu. That's a massive area. <a href="https://t.co/iPpFpGFJR0">pic.twitter.com/iPpFpGFJR0</a>
— Bikash Gupta (@iambikashgupta) <a href="https://twitter.com/iambikashgupta/status/1291591723504660480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The comparison between what happened in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Beirut?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Beirut</a> with a similar explosion in New York City or London is brutal &amp; sobering <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BeirutExplosion?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BeirutExplosion</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Lebanon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Lebanon</a> <a href="https://t.co/x3NczLRNLY">pic.twitter.com/x3NczLRNLY</a>
— John Cope (@john_cope) <a href="https://twitter.com/john_cope/status/1291083948760629254?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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With thanks to <a href="https://twitter.com/JoannaMerson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JoannaMerson</a>, more accurate (but just as horrifying) maps are now available: <a href="https://t.co/YRuXoIHeof">pic.twitter.com/YRuXoIHeof</a>
— John Cope (@john_cope) <a href="https://twitter.com/john_cope/status/1291304043965550597?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Beirut blast was so powerful that it was felt as far away as northern Israel and Cyprus (240 km away), and measured as a 4.5 local magnitude earthquake on the Richter scale by the Seismological Observatory in Jordan.&nbsp; 
Observers estimate that the blast had an explosive yield of between 200 and 500 hundred tonnes of TNT.

The massive explosion in Beirut killed over 150 people and injured 5,000 others on Tuesday. It also caused an estimated $3 billion in damage and leaving 300,000 people homeless in an instant.

The massive explosion in Beirut killed over 150 people and injured 5,000 others on Tuesday. It also caused an estimated $3 billion in damage and leaving 300,000 people homeless in an instant. The loss is unprecedented as it is huge. To this end, social media users have taken to educate their fellow countrymen about the extent of the damage caused by Tuesday’s ammonium nitrate explosion in Beirut. They have started a new viral trend -- exploring how major cities in their countries would be affected if they were rocked by a blast of similar magnitude. The trend has seen participation from people from Los Angeles, Hong Kong, London, Prague, Chicago, Cork, Kathmandu, and many others. These users contextualised the scale of the disaster, and also raised money for disaster relief. 1/x This morning I woke up to see viral maps incorrectly comparing the damage area of the Beirut explosion to London and New York. I have corrected the maps with a little thread to explain my corrections. img 1. tweet with my notes. img 2-4. my new maps. pic.twitter.com/nz9Q1X0wLt — Joanna Merson (@JoannaMerson) August 5, 2020 × Terrifying map reveals what the Beirut explosion would've looked like if the closest Ammonium Nitrate depot in Toronto exploded #Toronto #torontorealestate #BeirutBlast pic.twitter.com/2qHVcDxETn — Steve (@gabberghoul) August 7, 2020 × Okay though, seriously, here's what it would look like if a ship full were unloaded in the Portlands pic.twitter.com/kZyzGsiP4V — Steve (@gabberghoul) August 7, 2020 × Comparable - Halifax to Beirut explosions via maps pic.twitter.com/r2NCwpa15I — 🇨🇦🍁Cheryl🍁🇨🇦CANADA🍁🇨🇦 (@mini_bubbly) August 5, 2020 × Beirut blast was so intense that Cyprus felt its tremor 240 km away. To understand the force, I tried translating the impact on Nepal's map. If Narayanhiti (KTM) were the center, the tremor would be felt in six-eight districts surrounding Kathmandu. That's a massive area. pic.twitter.com/iPpFpGFJR0 — Bikash Gupta (@iambikashgupta) August 7, 2020 × The comparison between what happened in #Beirut with a similar explosion in New York City or London is brutal & sobering #BeirutExplosion #Lebanon pic.twitter.com/x3NczLRNLY — John Cope (@john_cope) August 5, 2020 × With thanks to @JoannaMerson, more accurate (but just as horrifying) maps are now available: pic.twitter.com/YRuXoIHeof — John Cope (@john_cope) August 6, 2020 × The Beirut blast was so powerful that it was felt as far away as northern Israel and Cyprus (240 km away), and measured as a 4.5 local magnitude earthquake on the Richter scale by the Seismological Observatory in Jordan. Observers estimate that the blast had an explosive yield of between 200 and 500 hundred tonnes of TNT.

Social media users inlay Beirut blast radius over their cities to contextualise the disaster

What's the unsolved mystery behind the Beirut Blast? Get to know in this video..

WION Exclusive Ground Report: The unsolved mystery behind the Beirut Blast

After the horrifying blast in Beirut, Lebanon, several countries have come ahead to lend support in every possible manner.&nbsp;

To talk about similar aids,&nbsp;French President Emmanuel Macron and his American counterpart Donald Trump had a phone call to discuss plans of extending immediate help to the ailing city.

The two leaders spoke on the phone on Friday evening and "expressed their deep sadness over the loss of life and devastation in Beirut," , White House spokesman Judd Deere said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ship-owner-files-lawsuit-against-those-responsible-for-beirut-port-explosion-318961">Also read:&nbsp;Ship owner files lawsuit against those responsible for Beirut port explosion</a>

Trump and Macron also discussed plans of joining other countries in sending the necessary aids to Beirut.

The talk happened after it was observed that while France and other countries offered emergency aid, such as team of doctors and equipment, the US has not offered any sort of aid to the ailing city till now.

The blast, that took place a couple of days ago, has taken more than&nbsp;154 lives, injured 5,000 and caused immense structural damage.

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Had a lengthy discussion this morning with President Macron of France concerning numerous subjects, but in particular the catastrophic event which took place in Beirut, Lebanon...
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1291864494608732170?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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After the call with the French President, trump also had a call with the Lebanon President who was informed that three large US aircrafts are en route Lebanon with emergency supplies and personnel.

Trump also announced through Twitter that he will be having a conference call with Lebanon President, leaders, French president and their other counterparts from around the world to discuss different ways in which Lebanon can be offered help.&nbsp;

"We will be having a conference call on Sunday with President Macron, leaders of Lebanon, and leaders from various other parts of the world. Everyone wants to help!," he tweeted.

The US Agency for International Development has offered to&nbsp;provide more than $15 million in assistance, including food aid for 50,000 people for three months. The US military will also be sending medical supplies&nbsp;and pharmaceuticals to support up to 60,000 people for&nbsp; the next three months.

Meanwhile, Trump had raised suspicions about the origin of the blast claiming that nobody could be sure if this was an attack or now, at this point.&nbsp;Lebanese President Michel Aoun has promised citizens to look deeper in this matter and hold the guilty people accountable for one of the worst blasts the country has faced in the past few years.

After the horrifying blast in Beirut, Lebanon, several countries have come ahead to lend support in every possible manner. To talk about similar aids, French President Emmanuel Macron and his American counterpart Donald Trump had a phone call to discuss plans of extending immediate help to the ailing city.

After the horrifying blast in Beirut, Lebanon, several countries have come ahead to lend support in every possible manner. To talk about similar aids, French President Emmanuel Macron and his American counterpart Donald Trump had a phone call to discuss plans of extending immediate help to the ailing city. The two leaders spoke on the phone on Friday evening and "expressed their deep sadness over the loss of life and devastation in Beirut," , White House spokesman Judd Deere said in a statement. Also read: Ship owner files lawsuit against those responsible for Beirut port explosion Trump and Macron also discussed plans of joining other countries in sending the necessary aids to Beirut. The talk happened after it was observed that while France and other countries offered emergency aid, such as team of doctors and equipment, the US has not offered any sort of aid to the ailing city till now. The blast, that took place a couple of days ago, has taken more than 154 lives, injured 5,000 and caused immense structural damage. Had a lengthy discussion this morning with President Macron of France concerning numerous subjects, but in particular the catastrophic event which took place in Beirut, Lebanon... — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 7, 2020 × After the call with the French President, trump also had a call with the Lebanon President who was informed that three large US aircrafts are en route Lebanon with emergency supplies and personnel. Trump also announced through Twitter that he will be having a conference call with Lebanon President, leaders, French president and their other counterparts from around the world to discuss different ways in which Lebanon can be offered help. "We will be having a conference call on Sunday with President Macron, leaders of Lebanon, and leaders from various other parts of the world. Everyone wants to help!," he tweeted. The US Agency for International Development has offered to provide more than $15 million in assistance, including food aid for 50,000 people for three months. The US military will also be sending medical supplies and pharmaceuticals to support up to 60,000 people for the next three months. Meanwhile, Trump had raised suspicions about the origin of the blast claiming that nobody could be sure if this was an attack or now, at this point. Lebanese President Michel Aoun has promised citizens to look deeper in this matter and hold the guilty people accountable for one of the worst blasts the country has faced in the past few years.

Trump and Macron discuss plans for immediate aid to Lebanon; US to send aid for three months

The massive blast in Beirut has dealt a major blow to the already battered economy of Lebanon. The blast will cause a 15 billion dollar loss to the once-thriving trading country. Watch report.

Massive blast deals a fresh blow to Lebanon's economy | World News

A petition calling for France to take control of Lebanon has got more than 50,000 signatures. This appeal is supported by the citizens of Lebanon - who are blaming their government for the Beirut blasts. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why Lebanese people want another country to take over their government.

Gravitas: Beirut blasts | Lebanese People call on France to takeover Lebanon

Lebanese security forces fired tear gas to disperse dozens of anti-government demonstrators angered by a cataclysmic blast on Thursday.

Tuesday's blast killed nearly 150 people, wounded at least 5,000 and destroyed entire districts of the capital. The death toll was expected to rise as rescue workers keep digging through the rubble. The blast zone is now a wasteland of blackened ruins, while whole neighbourhoods were largely destroyed.

Lebanese authorities said it was triggered by a fire igniting 2,750 tonnes of ammonium nitrate negligently stored in a warehouse at Beirut's port since 2013.&nbsp;

This raised questions as to how such a huge cargo of the highly explosive substance could have been left unsecured for so long. Its cause and aftermath are widely being seen as the most shocking expression yet of their government's incompetence.

The scuffles in central Beirut took place in a ravaged street leading to parliament, the wreckage from Tuesday's explosion still littering the entire area.

Protesters had sparked a blaze, vandalised stores and lobbed stones at security forces, according to the state-run National News Agency.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beiruts-accidental-cargo-how-an-unscheduled-port-visit-led-to-disaster-318756">Also read |&nbsp;Beirut's accidental cargo: How an unscheduled port visit led to disaster</a>

The explosion came as Lebanon was already knee-deep in its worst economic crisis since the 1975-1990 civil war.

It added to the grievances of a protest movement that emerged in October to demand the removal of a political class deemed inept and corrupt.

Meanwhile, a petition to put Lebanon under a French mandate has garnered more than 50,000 signatures in 24 hours.

President Emmanuel Macron landed in Beirut on Thursday morning to show support for France's Middle East protege and former colonial-era protectorate.

Activists have called for a large anti-government demonstration on Saturday -- an event they have titled "hang them by the gallows."&nbsp;

Thursday's scuffles erupted as Lebanon's ambassador to Jordan resigned, saying 'total negligence' by the country's authorities signalled the need for a leadership change.

It is the second such resignation over Tuesday's blast, after lawmaker Marwan Hamadeh also stepped down on Wednesday.

Lebanese security forces fired tear gas to disperse dozens of anti-government demonstrators angered by a cataclysmic blast on Thursday. Tuesday's blast killed nearly 150 people, wounded at least 5,000 and destroyed entire districts of the capital.

Lebanese security forces fired tear gas to disperse dozens of anti-government demonstrators angered by a cataclysmic blast on Thursday. Tuesday's blast killed nearly 150 people, wounded at least 5,000 and destroyed entire districts of the capital. The death toll was expected to rise as rescue workers keep digging through the rubble. The blast zone is now a wasteland of blackened ruins, while whole neighbourhoods were largely destroyed. Lebanese authorities said it was triggered by a fire igniting 2,750 tonnes of ammonium nitrate negligently stored in a warehouse at Beirut's port since 2013. This raised questions as to how such a huge cargo of the highly explosive substance could have been left unsecured for so long. Its cause and aftermath are widely being seen as the most shocking expression yet of their government's incompetence. The scuffles in central Beirut took place in a ravaged street leading to parliament, the wreckage from Tuesday's explosion still littering the entire area. Protesters had sparked a blaze, vandalised stores and lobbed stones at security forces, according to the state-run National News Agency. Also read | Beirut's accidental cargo: How an unscheduled port visit led to disaster The explosion came as Lebanon was already knee-deep in its worst economic crisis since the 1975-1990 civil war. It added to the grievances of a protest movement that emerged in October to demand the removal of a political class deemed inept and corrupt. Meanwhile, a petition to put Lebanon under a French mandate has garnered more than 50,000 signatures in 24 hours. President Emmanuel Macron landed in Beirut on Thursday morning to show support for France's Middle East protege and former colonial-era protectorate. Activists have called for a large anti-government demonstration on Saturday -- an event they have titled "hang them by the gallows." Thursday's scuffles erupted as Lebanon's ambassador to Jordan resigned, saying 'total negligence' by the country's authorities signalled the need for a leadership change. It is the second such resignation over Tuesday's blast, after lawmaker Marwan Hamadeh also stepped down on Wednesday.

Anti-government protests break out in Beirut; security forces fire tear gas

George and Amal Clooney have announced that they are donating $100,000 for Lebanon's&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/anti-government-protests-break-out-in-beirut-security-forces-fire-tear-gas-318760">massive explosion</a>&nbsp;that damaged&nbsp;the&nbsp;countries&nbsp;capital, Beirut.

''We’re both deeply concerned for the people of Beirut and the devastation they’ve faced in the last few days'', the Clooneys said &nbsp; 
 
''Three charitable organizations we’ve found are providing essential relief on the ground: the Lebanese Red Cross, Impact Lebanon, and Baytna Baytak. We will be donating $100,000 to these charities and hope that others will help in any way they can.''

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/entertainment/george-clooney-writes-on-george-floyds-death-racism-is-the-greatest-pandemic-302719" hreflang="en">George Clooney writes on George Floyd's death: Racism is the greatest pandemic</a>

Amal, a 42-year-old human rights lawyer, was born in Beirut. Her family left Lebanon when she was 2-years-old during the Lebanese Civil War and moved to England. 
 
In pics:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/photos/satellite-images-capture-beirut-before-vs-after-devastating-blast-318562" hreflang="en">Satellite images capture Beirut before vs after devastating blast</a>

As per the reports, 135 people are dead and 5,000 people are injured and &nbsp;300,000 people have lost their homes after the explosion on August 4. The star couple recently donated $1 million to coronavirus relief efforts.&nbsp;

George and Amal Clooney have announced that they are donating $100,000 for Lebanon's massive explosion that damaged the countries capital, Beirut. ''We’re both deeply concerned for the people of Beirut and the devastation they’ve faced in the last few days'', the Clooneys said ''Three charitable organizations we’ve found are providing essential relief on the ground: the Lebanese Red Cross, Impact Lebanon, and Baytna Baytak.

George and Amal Clooney have announced that they are donating $100,000 for Lebanon's massive explosion that damaged the countries capital, Beirut. ''We’re both deeply concerned for the people of Beirut and the devastation they’ve faced in the last few days'', the Clooneys said ''Three charitable organizations we’ve found are providing essential relief on the ground: the Lebanese Red Cross, Impact Lebanon, and Baytna Baytak. We will be donating $100,000 to these charities and hope that others will help in any way they can.'' Also read: George Clooney writes on George Floyd's death: Racism is the greatest pandemic Amal, a 42-year-old human rights lawyer, was born in Beirut. Her family left Lebanon when she was 2-years-old during the Lebanese Civil War and moved to England. In pics: Satellite images capture Beirut before vs after devastating blast As per the reports, 135 people are dead and 5,000 people are injured and 300,000 people have lost their homes after the explosion on August 4. The star couple recently donated $1 million to coronavirus relief efforts.

George and Amal Clooney donate $100,000 for Beirut massive explosion

It has been 72 hours since a massive explosion rocked the city of Beirut. Pictures from the city sent shockwaves around the world. What's happening on the ground? WION gets you the first ground report from Beirut.

Gravitas: Beirut blasts | First ground report on WION

A massive explosion ripped through the city of Beirut in Lebanon. Protesters are now out on the streets protesting against this massive disaster. Watch report.

Lebanon Blast Aftermath: Protesters take to the streets of Beirut

Lebanon is coming to terms with a massive explosion at the port of Beirut that has killed at least 137 people and injured more than 5000. The death toll is rising consistently as the Lebanese rescue team pulls more and more bodies from under the rubble. Watch report.

Fineprint: At least 137 dead & 5,000 injured in Beirut Blast, Quarter of a million people homeless

Israel announced Tuesday night that it had reached out to offer humanitarian help to Lebanon after a massive blast rocked Beirut, killing at least 100 and leaving large parts of the capital in ruins.

Beirut Blasts: Unprecedented show of solidarity by Lebanon's rival, pledges humanitarian aid amid hard times

The blast killed at least 135 people and injured more than 4,000 others. A two-week state of emergency has begun.

Lebanon Blast: At least 135 dead & 5,000 injured | Quarter of a million people homeless | World News

The blasts in Beirut has taken at least 100 lives. This calamity couldn't have come at the worst time. With an economic crisis looming large - tensions are also high in Lebanon ahead of a verdict in a trial over the killing of ex-Prime Minister Rafik Hariri. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Five videos tell the tale of Beirut Blasts

Before 1975, Beirut was the hub of economic, social, intellectual, and cultural life in West Asia. But, after the Lebanese Civil War - the city has struggled to rise from its bloody past. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Beirut | The embattled Jewel of the Mediterranean

After the Lebanon&nbsp;government gave investigators four days to probe the Beirut blasts, French President Macron who arrived in the country's capital on Thursday said that he will pitch "new political deal" to the Lebanon leadership.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/beirut-struggles-to-rise-city-of-baffling-contradictions-318622/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Lebanon will continue to sink without reforms, the French president asserted, while stating that he backed coordinated international relief for blast-hit Beirut.

"I want to organise European cooperation and more broadly international cooperation," he said as he surveyed the blast site.

<img alt="Beirut" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bb94cef6-0063-4067-9243-b845901e4fca" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Leabon_0.jpg" />

"We know the crisis places historic responsibility on the leaders. It is a political, moral, economic and financial crisis, he said, adding,"this visit is also an opportunity for frank dialogue and a demanding one with the political leaders and Lebanese institutions."

The French president visited the blast site on Thursday as rescue operations continue two days after the horrific explosion in which at least 137 people have died and thousands injured. The blast reportedly occurred after ammonium nitrate dumped in a warehouse caught fire triggering to a huge blast.

Macron inspected the 460 feet wide crater caused by the blast and visited the devastated pharmacy as people converged on the French president on all sides asking for help.

After the Lebanon government gave investigators four days to probe the Beirut blasts, French President Macron who arrived in the country's capital on Thursday said that he will pitch "new political deal" to the Lebanon leadership.

After the Lebanon government gave investigators four days to probe the Beirut blasts, French President Macron who arrived in the country's capital on Thursday said that he will pitch "new political deal" to the Lebanon leadership. Watch: Lebanon will continue to sink without reforms, the French president asserted, while stating that he backed coordinated international relief for blast-hit Beirut. "I want to organise European cooperation and more broadly international cooperation," he said as he surveyed the blast site. "We know the crisis places historic responsibility on the leaders. It is a political, moral, economic and financial crisis, he said, adding,"this visit is also an opportunity for frank dialogue and a demanding one with the political leaders and Lebanese institutions." The French president visited the blast site on Thursday as rescue operations continue two days after the horrific explosion in which at least 137 people have died and thousands injured. The blast reportedly occurred after ammonium nitrate dumped in a warehouse caught fire triggering to a huge blast. Macron inspected the 460 feet wide crater caused by the blast and visited the devastated pharmacy as people converged on the French president on all sides asking for help.

Will pitch 'new political deal' to Lebanon leadership, says Macron in Beirut