Port blast on August 4 damaged prized heritage pieces in Beirut. Lebanon's artists are working around the clock to restore their country's heritage. Watch the report to know more.

Beirut Blast: "We will rebuild Beirut", says Artists

Lebanon has asked Interpol to issue arrest warrants for the Russian captain and owner of the ship that brought the explosive material that detonated at Beirut port in August, killing nearly 200 people, state media reported on Thursday.

About two months after the explosion that injured thousands and ravaged the Lebanese capital, questions remain about why and how the cargo was abandoned in Beirut.

Authorities have blamed it on the huge stockpile of ammonium nitrate, used for fertiliser but also for explosives, going up in flames after being stored in poor conditions at the port for years.

There have also been accusations of negligence against Lebanese authorities. Nearly 20 people have been detained in Lebanon after the blast including port and customs officials.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-army-finds-13-tonnes-of-fireworks-at-destroyed-beirut-port-328663">Also read:&nbsp;Lebanon army finds 1.3 tonnes of fireworks at destroyed Beirut port</a>

Lebanon’s public prosecution asked Interpol to issue warrants to detain the owner and captain, state news agency NNA said on Thursday, without naming them.

Boris Prokoshev was captain of the Rhosus ship when it arrived in Beirut in 2013, and he had identified Igor Grechushkin, a Russian businessman in Cyprus, as the owner. A security source and a judicial source said they were the two for whom Lebanon asked for arrest warrants on Thursday.

Russia’s national Interpol bureau declined to comment.

Grechushkin, 43, was questioned in Cyprus in August. Attempts by Reuters to reach Grechushkin were unsuccessful.

Cyprus police spokesman Christos Andreou said, regarding an Interpol request on Thursday: “We have not received such a request.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanese-artists-in-overdrive-to-restore-beiruts-beauty-331886">Also read:&nbsp;Lebanese artists in overdrive to restore Beirut's beauty</a>

Prokoshev, who is in Russia, said he had not heard anything about it and that he has not been contacted by investigators before.

He has told Reuters that 2,750 tonnes of the chemicals ended up in Beirut after the ship’s owner told him to divert to Beirut to pick up extra cargo in 2013. He has also said Lebanese authorities paid little attention to the ammonium nitrate, which had been stacked in the hull in large sacks.

The Rhosus had loaded ammonium nitrate in Georgia, shipping records show, before making the unscheduled stop in Lebanon.

But it never left, becoming tangled in a legal dispute over unpaid port fees and ship defects.

Beirut port authorities impounded the vessel after it arrived in late 2013 due to outstanding debts, according to a state security report which Reuters revealed in August. In 2014, the ship was deemed unseaworthy and its cargo was unloaded in October and warehoused in what was known as Hangar 12, the epicentre of the explosion.

The ship sank near the port’s breakwater in February 2018, the report said.

Lebanon has asked Interpol to issue arrest warrants for the Russian captain and owner of the ship that brought the explosive material that detonated at Beirut port in August, killing nearly 200 people, state media reported on Thursday.

Lebanon has asked Interpol to issue arrest warrants for the Russian captain and owner of the ship that brought the explosive material that detonated at Beirut port in August, killing nearly 200 people, state media reported on Thursday. About two months after the explosion that injured thousands and ravaged the Lebanese capital, questions remain about why and how the cargo was abandoned in Beirut. Authorities have blamed it on the huge stockpile of ammonium nitrate, used for fertiliser but also for explosives, going up in flames after being stored in poor conditions at the port for years. There have also been accusations of negligence against Lebanese authorities. Nearly 20 people have been detained in Lebanon after the blast including port and customs officials. Also read: Lebanon army finds 1.3 tonnes of fireworks at destroyed Beirut port Lebanon’s public prosecution asked Interpol to issue warrants to detain the owner and captain, state news agency NNA said on Thursday, without naming them. Boris Prokoshev was captain of the Rhosus ship when it arrived in Beirut in 2013, and he had identified Igor Grechushkin, a Russian businessman in Cyprus, as the owner. A security source and a judicial source said they were the two for whom Lebanon asked for arrest warrants on Thursday. Russia’s national Interpol bureau declined to comment. Grechushkin, 43, was questioned in Cyprus in August. Attempts by Reuters to reach Grechushkin were unsuccessful. Cyprus police spokesman Christos Andreou said, regarding an Interpol request on Thursday: “We have not received such a request.” Also read: Lebanese artists in overdrive to restore Beirut's beauty Prokoshev, who is in Russia, said he had not heard anything about it and that he has not been contacted by investigators before. He has told Reuters that 2,750 tonnes of the chemicals ended up in Beirut after the ship’s owner told him to divert to Beirut to pick up extra cargo in 2013. He has also said Lebanese authorities paid little attention to the ammonium nitrate, which had been stacked in the hull in large sacks. The Rhosus had loaded ammonium nitrate in Georgia, shipping records show, before making the unscheduled stop in Lebanon. But it never left, becoming tangled in a legal dispute over unpaid port fees and ship defects. Beirut port authorities impounded the vessel after it arrived in late 2013 due to outstanding debts, according to a state security report which Reuters revealed in August. In 2014, the ship was deemed unseaworthy and its cargo was unloaded in October and warehoused in what was known as Hangar 12, the epicentre of the explosion. The ship sank near the port’s breakwater in February 2018, the report said.

Lebanon asks Interpol to arrest Russian ship captain, owner over port explosion

Lebanese stained glass artist Maya Husseini had hoped to retire after decades spent designing colourful windows, but she has been flooded with work since the blast that ripped through Beirut.

"I can't possibly not try to restore what is gone," said the 60-year-old woman, her bright red curly hair in a short bob.

The massive explosion at the capital's port on August 4 killed more than 190 people and wounded thousands more as it sent lethal shockwaves pummelling through the city.

But it also ravaged dozens of Beirut's most cherished heritage buildings.

Husseini is one of several artists slowly starting to restore artworks devastated in the disaster.

In her basement workshop on the outskirts of Beirut, she gestured at what remained of windows of a 19th-century church she had restored after the 1975-1990 civil war.

A gaping mess of mangled metal, dotted by a few surviving pieces of orange and blue glass, lay in a cardboard box.

"At least seven projects I had worked on were blown away," Husseini said.

They included one of her first projects designing biblical scenes on glass for a church, and the dazzling yellow and orange windows she had crafted for the famed Sursock Museum.

Before the blast, she had planned to retire after completing glass windows for a last cathedral in Jordan.

"But now I won't allow myself to stop," she said.

- Glass dust -

On her work table, she picked a green piece of glass and lodged it between curving lengths of soft lead to rebuild a window of flowers and leaves for a private home.

Even if she has now taken on apprentices, she said there is still a lot of work ahead.

"For some people who have asked me, I won't be able to start anything for at least two years," she said.

In neighbourhoods near the port, the race is on to cover up 100 heritage buildings before the autumn rain.

The United Nations culture and education fund, UNESCO, has said it will hold a conference to try to drum up hundreds of millions of dollars for restorations.

But until that aid arrives, Lebanese are doing what they can on their own.

Among them, artwork conservation specialist Gaby Maamary has decided to offer to restore damaged paintings for free.

He says he was inspired after seeing Lebanese youths sweeping away seas of rubble and glass after the blast, and decided to channels his skills towards preserving Beirut's heritage.

"It's something that you can lose easily if you don't pay attention," the 58-year-old artist and university lecturer said.

In his Beirut studio, he carefully held up a 17th-century nature morte by Italian artist Elena Recco, depicting a cat greedily eyeing up some dead fish.

In several places, the canvas had been slashed by flying shards of glass.

Wearing white gloves, he turned over the back of another canvas he had started cleaning, the untreated part a shade darker and shimmering with fine glass dust.

Nearby, he pointed to a work by late Lebanese artist Sophie Yeramian whose dried paint had been cracked by the blast.

- Saved from the trash -

"We did not expect that amount of calls," he said.

The initiative has taken him to assess damage in art galleries, but also private homes.

In one, he pulled a painting worth tens of thousands of dollars out of the trash. To his horror, he found another bound up in sticky tape.

The owner had rushed to hospital with her severely injured son after the explosion, and someone helping to clean up the mess had not realised their worth.

But even without sticky tape to complicate matters, Maamary said conservation is a complex process that involves hours of planning before even touching the artwork.

"Sometimes the same step has to be done several times, simply because we don't have the museum equipment," he said.

Bringing in specialised materials from abroad is also tricky, with bank transfers blocked from Lebanon's crisis-hit banks.

But drawing on the help of friends and using what is locally available, Maamary is determined to carry on.

"We're going to continue doing that on a daily basis until we run out of materials or means," he said.

Lebanese stained glass artist Maya Husseini had hoped to retire after decades spent designing colourful windows, but she has been flooded with work since the blast that ripped through Beirut.

Lebanese stained glass artist Maya Husseini had hoped to retire after decades spent designing colourful windows, but she has been flooded with work since the blast that ripped through Beirut. "I can't possibly not try to restore what is gone," said the 60-year-old woman, her bright red curly hair in a short bob. The massive explosion at the capital's port on August 4 killed more than 190 people and wounded thousands more as it sent lethal shockwaves pummelling through the city. But it also ravaged dozens of Beirut's most cherished heritage buildings. Husseini is one of several artists slowly starting to restore artworks devastated in the disaster. In her basement workshop on the outskirts of Beirut, she gestured at what remained of windows of a 19th-century church she had restored after the 1975-1990 civil war. A gaping mess of mangled metal, dotted by a few surviving pieces of orange and blue glass, lay in a cardboard box. "At least seven projects I had worked on were blown away," Husseini said. They included one of her first projects designing biblical scenes on glass for a church, and the dazzling yellow and orange windows she had crafted for the famed Sursock Museum. Before the blast, she had planned to retire after completing glass windows for a last cathedral in Jordan. "But now I won't allow myself to stop," she said. - Glass dust - On her work table, she picked a green piece of glass and lodged it between curving lengths of soft lead to rebuild a window of flowers and leaves for a private home. Even if she has now taken on apprentices, she said there is still a lot of work ahead. "For some people who have asked me, I won't be able to start anything for at least two years," she said. In neighbourhoods near the port, the race is on to cover up 100 heritage buildings before the autumn rain. The United Nations culture and education fund, UNESCO, has said it will hold a conference to try to drum up hundreds of millions of dollars for restorations. But until that aid arrives, Lebanese are doing what they can on their own. Among them, artwork conservation specialist Gaby Maamary has decided to offer to restore damaged paintings for free. He says he was inspired after seeing Lebanese youths sweeping away seas of rubble and glass after the blast, and decided to channels his skills towards preserving Beirut's heritage. "It's something that you can lose easily if you don't pay attention," the 58-year-old artist and university lecturer said. In his Beirut studio, he carefully held up a 17th-century nature morte by Italian artist Elena Recco, depicting a cat greedily eyeing up some dead fish. In several places, the canvas had been slashed by flying shards of glass. Wearing white gloves, he turned over the back of another canvas he had started cleaning, the untreated part a shade darker and shimmering with fine glass dust. Nearby, he pointed to a work by late Lebanese artist Sophie Yeramian whose dried paint had been cracked by the blast. - Saved from the trash - "We did not expect that amount of calls," he said. The initiative has taken him to assess damage in art galleries, but also private homes. In one, he pulled a painting worth tens of thousands of dollars out of the trash. To his horror, he found another bound up in sticky tape. The owner had rushed to hospital with her severely injured son after the explosion, and someone helping to clean up the mess had not realised their worth. But even without sticky tape to complicate matters, Maamary said conservation is a complex process that involves hours of planning before even touching the artwork. "Sometimes the same step has to be done several times, simply because we don't have the museum equipment," he said. Bringing in specialised materials from abroad is also tricky, with bank transfers blocked from Lebanon's crisis-hit banks. But drawing on the help of friends and using what is locally available, Maamary is determined to carry on. "We're going to continue doing that on a daily basis until we run out of materials or means," he said.

Lebanese artists in overdrive to restore Beirut's beauty

Beirut's heritage pieces damaged in Port Blast ; Lebanese artists count cost of blast

The leader of Lebanon's Hezbollah group, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, on Tuesday said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was lying about missile sites in Lebanon.

"A short while ago, the enemy's prime minister spoke directly in a speech at the United Nations, saying things in order to incite the Lebanese people against Hezbollah, as usual," said Nasrallah.

He added that Netanyahu was trying to provoke the Lebanese against Hezbollah with accusations of missile sites in Beirut.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-strikes-hezbollah-posts-in-lebanon-after-firing-at-troops-military-says-323243">Israel strikes Hezbollah posts in Lebanon after firing at troops, military says</a>

Nasrallah during the televised speech invited the media on a Hezbollah-guided tour of the site that Netanyahu earlier, in a video address to the United Nations, accused him of storing weapons in Beirut.

Netanyahu said that the site is next to a gas company in a residential neighbourhood of Beirut, urging the people to "act now" by protesting against the depo mentioned right after his speech.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-president-macron-warns-of-new-civil-war-in-lebanon-323839">French President Macron warns of new civil war in Lebanon</a>

Nasrallah, talking about the latest government developments of the country expressed that his Shi'ite movement welcomed French efforts to help Lebanon but that did not mean it would agree to any government or that French President Emmanuel Macron could act like the country's ruler.

In a televised speech, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah said Hezbollah was still ready for dialogue under the French plan to lift Lebanon from financial crisis, but that a new approach would be needed.

He accused Lebanon's Sunni former prime ministers, including Saad al-Hariri, of trying to exploit the French intervention to score political points.

The leader of Lebanon's Hezbollah group, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, on Tuesday said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was lying about missile sites in Lebanon.

The leader of Lebanon's Hezbollah group, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, on Tuesday said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was lying about missile sites in Lebanon. "A short while ago, the enemy's prime minister spoke directly in a speech at the United Nations, saying things in order to incite the Lebanese people against Hezbollah, as usual," said Nasrallah. He added that Netanyahu was trying to provoke the Lebanese against Hezbollah with accusations of missile sites in Beirut. Also read: Israel strikes Hezbollah posts in Lebanon after firing at troops, military says Nasrallah during the televised speech invited the media on a Hezbollah-guided tour of the site that Netanyahu earlier, in a video address to the United Nations, accused him of storing weapons in Beirut. Netanyahu said that the site is next to a gas company in a residential neighbourhood of Beirut, urging the people to "act now" by protesting against the depo mentioned right after his speech. Also read: French President Macron warns of new civil war in Lebanon Nasrallah, talking about the latest government developments of the country expressed that his Shi'ite movement welcomed French efforts to help Lebanon but that did not mean it would agree to any government or that French President Emmanuel Macron could act like the country's ruler. In a televised speech, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah said Hezbollah was still ready for dialogue under the French plan to lift Lebanon from financial crisis, but that a new approach would be needed. He accused Lebanon's Sunni former prime ministers, including Saad al-Hariri, of trying to exploit the French intervention to score political points.

Hezbollah chief hits back at Netanyahu, Macron for statements on Lebanon

Lebanon was left reeling on Sunday without a hint of any end to the multiple crises, after its prime minister-designate stepped down following the failure of talks to form a government, despite international pressure.

Mustapha Adib's resignation on Saturday ended efforts to hammer out a reformist government. All this is happening in the wake of a colossal August 4 explosion in Beirut that killed 190 people, injured thousands and ravaged swathes of the capital.

To this end, Lebanon’s top Christian cleric said the nation faced “multiple dangers” that would be hard to weather without a government.

Patriarch Bechara Boutros Al-Rai, leader of the Maronite church, Lebanon’s biggest Christian community, said Adib’s resignation had “disappointed citizens, especially the youth, who were betting on the start of change in the political class.”

Many top politicians, both Christian and Muslim, have held sway for years or even decades. Some are former warlords.

Rai said Lebanon now had to navigate “multiple dangers” without a government at the helm.

Rai’s comments were echoed on the streets of Beirut, where mass protests erupted in 2019 as years of mismanagement, corruption and mounting debts finally led to economic collapse, paralysing banks and sending the currency into freefall.

French President Emmanuel Macron, who had pressed Lebanon’s fractious politicians to reach a consensus so that Adib was named on Aug. 31, is to due to speak about the crisis in a news conference in Paris later on Sunday.

Political parties had pledged in early September, during a visit to Lebanon by French President Emmanuel Macron, to form within two weeks a cabinet of independent ministers tasked with ending the country's economic malaise.

Under the Lebanese constitution, the president must now hold further talks to nominate another prime minister to form a government, but it is a process that risks dragging out and even failing.

Adib's efforts were hampered by the claims of two Shiite formations, the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement, and its ally Amal, led by parliament speaker Nabih Berri, who demanded the finance portfolio.

According to observers, the Shiite allies dug in their heels after recent US sanctions were imposed on a minister of the Amal party and two companies affiliated with Hezbollah.

Adib's decision to step aside 26 days after his appointment has left the people of Lebanon feeling as though they are back to square one.

Earlier this week, Lebanese President Michel Aoun warned the country was headed to "hell" without a new cabinet.

The Arabic-language newspaper Annahar warned of "grave repercussions", and said all eyes were on Macron, who is due to hold a news conference on Sunday evening.

The UN envoy to Lebanon, Jan Kubis, on Saturday reacted with disbelief: "Such a degree of irresponsibility when the fate of Lebanon and its people is at stake!"

Even before the devastating Beirut port blast, the country was already mired in its worst economic crisis in decades, and its entrenched political class was dealing with widespread popular discontent.

After the country for the first time defaulted on its sovereign debt in March, it launched talks with the International Monetary Fund towards lifting the country out of crisis, but those discussions soon stalled.

Now, with no new cabinet expected any time soon, analyst Maha Yahya said the country was left with a "lame duck" caretaker government.

Many are worried the country is headed from bad to worse, with daily novel coronavirus infection figures on the rise and increasing security incidents reported in recent weeks.

On Saturday night, an attack on an army post in north Lebanon killed two soldiers and an alleged "terrorist".&nbsp;

Police killed nine alleged Islamic State group-linked suspects in a manhunt over a murder last month, a security source said Sunday.

A senior Shi’ite Muslim cleric, Sheikh Ahmed Qabalan, said on Saturday Adib’s resignation as the economy collapsed could “be described as a disaster”, calling for national unity to deliver reforms, the state news agency reported.

The cabinet formation effort stumbled after Lebanon’s two main Shi’ite groups, Amal and the heavily armed Iran-backed Hezbollah, demanded they name several ministers, including finance, a key role as the nation draws up a rescue plan.

Saad al-Hariri, a former prime minister and leading Sunni politician, said in a statement he would not be involved in naming any new premier and said the French plan was “the last and only opportunity to halt Lebanon’s collapse”.

A French roadmap laid out a reform programme for a new government to help trigger billions of dollars of international aid.

(with inputs from agencies)

Lebanon was left reeling on Sunday without a hint of any end to the multiple crises, after its prime minister-designate stepped down following the failure of talks to form a government, despite international pressure.

Lebanon was left reeling on Sunday without a hint of any end to the multiple crises, after its prime minister-designate stepped down following the failure of talks to form a government, despite international pressure. Mustapha Adib's resignation on Saturday ended efforts to hammer out a reformist government. All this is happening in the wake of a colossal August 4 explosion in Beirut that killed 190 people, injured thousands and ravaged swathes of the capital. To this end, Lebanon’s top Christian cleric said the nation faced “multiple dangers” that would be hard to weather without a government. Patriarch Bechara Boutros Al-Rai, leader of the Maronite church, Lebanon’s biggest Christian community, said Adib’s resignation had “disappointed citizens, especially the youth, who were betting on the start of change in the political class.” Many top politicians, both Christian and Muslim, have held sway for years or even decades. Some are former warlords. Rai said Lebanon now had to navigate “multiple dangers” without a government at the helm. Rai’s comments were echoed on the streets of Beirut, where mass protests erupted in 2019 as years of mismanagement, corruption and mounting debts finally led to economic collapse, paralysing banks and sending the currency into freefall. French President Emmanuel Macron, who had pressed Lebanon’s fractious politicians to reach a consensus so that Adib was named on Aug. 31, is to due to speak about the crisis in a news conference in Paris later on Sunday. Political parties had pledged in early September, during a visit to Lebanon by French President Emmanuel Macron, to form within two weeks a cabinet of independent ministers tasked with ending the country's economic malaise. Under the Lebanese constitution, the president must now hold further talks to nominate another prime minister to form a government, but it is a process that risks dragging out and even failing. Adib's efforts were hampered by the claims of two Shiite formations, the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement, and its ally Amal, led by parliament speaker Nabih Berri, who demanded the finance portfolio. According to observers, the Shiite allies dug in their heels after recent US sanctions were imposed on a minister of the Amal party and two companies affiliated with Hezbollah. Adib's decision to step aside 26 days after his appointment has left the people of Lebanon feeling as though they are back to square one. Earlier this week, Lebanese President Michel Aoun warned the country was headed to "hell" without a new cabinet. The Arabic-language newspaper Annahar warned of "grave repercussions", and said all eyes were on Macron, who is due to hold a news conference on Sunday evening. The UN envoy to Lebanon, Jan Kubis, on Saturday reacted with disbelief: "Such a degree of irresponsibility when the fate of Lebanon and its people is at stake!" Even before the devastating Beirut port blast, the country was already mired in its worst economic crisis in decades, and its entrenched political class was dealing with widespread popular discontent. After the country for the first time defaulted on its sovereign debt in March, it launched talks with the International Monetary Fund towards lifting the country out of crisis, but those discussions soon stalled. Now, with no new cabinet expected any time soon, analyst Maha Yahya said the country was left with a "lame duck" caretaker government. Many are worried the country is headed from bad to worse, with daily novel coronavirus infection figures on the rise and increasing security incidents reported in recent weeks. On Saturday night, an attack on an army post in north Lebanon killed two soldiers and an alleged "terrorist". Police killed nine alleged Islamic State group-linked suspects in a manhunt over a murder last month, a security source said Sunday. A senior Shi’ite Muslim cleric, Sheikh Ahmed Qabalan, said on Saturday Adib’s resignation as the economy collapsed could “be described as a disaster”, calling for national unity to deliver reforms, the state news agency reported. The cabinet formation effort stumbled after Lebanon’s two main Shi’ite groups, Amal and the heavily armed Iran-backed Hezbollah, demanded they name several ministers, including finance, a key role as the nation draws up a rescue plan. Saad al-Hariri, a former prime minister and leading Sunni politician, said in a statement he would not be involved in naming any new premier and said the French plan was “the last and only opportunity to halt Lebanon’s collapse”. A French roadmap laid out a reform programme for a new government to help trigger billions of dollars of international aid. (with inputs from agencies)

'Multiple dangers': Lebanon reels after efforts to form government collapse

Lebanon's President Michel Aoun warned&nbsp;that the country was headed to "hell" if a new cabinet is not appointed quickly.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-army-finds-13-tonnes-of-fireworks-at-destroyed-beirut-port-328663">Also Read:&nbsp;Lebanon army finds 1.3 tonnes of fireworks at destroyed Beirut port</a>

In a televised address to the nation, Aoun said: "With the entrenchment of positions, no solution seems imminent", and added&nbsp;later that a "miracle" could help in a political breakthrough.

Lebanon's prime minister-designate Mustapha Adib has been pressing hard to strike a deal to form the cabinet. French President Emmanuel Macron had earlier given Lebanon's leaders a two-week deadline to form a government which passed last week. &nbsp;

Lebanon's capital Beirut was hit by a deadly blast last month in which at least 180 people were killed and several hundred injured amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Macron had travelled to Beirut in the aftermath of the blasts and had called for political reforms amid the chaos as residents welcomed him and openly discussed the issues related to the country.

US secretary Mike Pompeo had said earlier that, "Business as usual in Lebanon just is unacceptable", while adding, "This has to be a government that conducts significant reforms."

"I am counting on everyone's cooperation to form a government whose task will be to implement what was agreed upon with President Macron," Adib had said earlier.

Another fire had hit the Beirut's commercial district earlier in the month amid recovery efforts from the August 4 blasts. Fire trucks quickly moved to put out the flames. &nbsp;

Lebanon's President Michel Aoun warned that the country was headed to "hell" if a new cabinet is not appointed quickly. Also Read: Lebanon army finds 1.3 tonnes of fireworks at destroyed Beirut port In a televised address to the nation, Aoun said: "With the entrenchment of positions, no solution seems imminent", and added later that a "miracle" could help in a political breakthrough.

Lebanon's President Michel Aoun warned that the country was headed to "hell" if a new cabinet is not appointed quickly. Also Read: Lebanon army finds 1.3 tonnes of fireworks at destroyed Beirut port In a televised address to the nation, Aoun said: "With the entrenchment of positions, no solution seems imminent", and added later that a "miracle" could help in a political breakthrough. Lebanon's prime minister-designate Mustapha Adib has been pressing hard to strike a deal to form the cabinet. French President Emmanuel Macron had earlier given Lebanon's leaders a two-week deadline to form a government which passed last week. Lebanon's capital Beirut was hit by a deadly blast last month in which at least 180 people were killed and several hundred injured amid the coronavirus pandemic. Macron had travelled to Beirut in the aftermath of the blasts and had called for political reforms amid the chaos as residents welcomed him and openly discussed the issues related to the country. US secretary Mike Pompeo had said earlier that, "Business as usual in Lebanon just is unacceptable", while adding, "This has to be a government that conducts significant reforms." "I am counting on everyone's cooperation to form a government whose task will be to implement what was agreed upon with President Macron," Adib had said earlier. Another fire had hit the Beirut's commercial district earlier in the month amid recovery efforts from the August 4 blasts. Fire trucks quickly moved to put out the flames.

Country will go 'to hell' unless cabinet formed, warns Lebanon President Aoun

US officials claim that Hezbollah is storing caches of weapons and ammonium nitrate across Europe. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how Hezbollah is facing a backlash over the Beirut blasts.

Gravitas: US: Hezbollah is storing caches of weapons, ammonium nitrate across Europe

Just more than a month ago, Beirut was struck by a catastrophe. The blasts at Beirut port were a body blow to Lebanon already cursed by violence. Many blamed Hezbollah for the blasts that were caused by huge stock of Ammonium Nitrate, a highly flammable chemical.

A report in the month of August claimed that the ship that got the supply to Beirut port was owned by a man with links to Hezbollah's bank.

The blast unleashed public anger against the Hezbollah. However, another revelation could make it worse

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The United States has accused the Hezbollah of storing caches of weapons and ammonium nitrate across Europe. The Americans say these supplies are being stored to conduct future attacks under the influence of Iran.&nbsp;

US State Department's counter-terrorism co-ordinator is raising an alarm. He says that the Hezbollah weapons caches have been moved through Belgium to France, Greece, Italy, Spain and Switzerland. More caches of Ammonium Nitrate were discovered or destroyed in France, Italy and Greece.

Also Read | <a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/us-sanctions-lebanese-companies-for-allegedly-funnelling-millions-to-hezbollah-328240">US sanctions Lebanese companies for allegedly funnelling millions to Hezbollah</a> 
 
The US is of the view that Hezbollah hasn't stopped its activities with the blasts in Beirut. The investigation is still on.

Almost 3000 tonnes of Ammonium Nitrate was stored at the port for six years. The explosion in the month of August was felt in Turkey, Syria, Israel Palestine and parts of Europe.

It was one of the most powerful non-nuclear explosions in history. The Hezbollah is said to have a sizeable influence in the running of the port.

After the Beirut blasts, Lebanon's Prime Minister Hassan Diab and his entire cabinet resigned.

But the people are still angry.

A senior Hezbollah leader gave an interview to WION and refused to take any responsibility. However, just making statements will not help the Hezbollah.

The group, that entered politics through militancy seems to have lost the support of the public. Hezbollah may have sizeable political power, but it is now accused of protecting a corrupt political class. With the US now stepping up the heat, Lebanon seems to be slipping out of the hands of Hezbollah.

Just more than a month ago, Beirut was struck by a catastrophe. The blasts at Beirut port were a body blow to Lebanon already cursed by violence. Many blamed Hezbollah for the blasts that were caused by huge stock of Ammonium Nitrate, a highly flammable chemical.

Just more than a month ago, Beirut was struck by a catastrophe. The blasts at Beirut port were a body blow to Lebanon already cursed by violence. Many blamed Hezbollah for the blasts that were caused by huge stock of Ammonium Nitrate, a highly flammable chemical. A report in the month of August claimed that the ship that got the supply to Beirut port was owned by a man with links to Hezbollah's bank. The blast unleashed public anger against the Hezbollah. However, another revelation could make it worse × The United States has accused the Hezbollah of storing caches of weapons and ammonium nitrate across Europe. The Americans say these supplies are being stored to conduct future attacks under the influence of Iran. US State Department's counter-terrorism co-ordinator is raising an alarm. He says that the Hezbollah weapons caches have been moved through Belgium to France, Greece, Italy, Spain and Switzerland. More caches of Ammonium Nitrate were discovered or destroyed in France, Italy and Greece. Also Read | US sanctions Lebanese companies for allegedly funnelling millions to Hezbollah The US is of the view that Hezbollah hasn't stopped its activities with the blasts in Beirut. The investigation is still on. Almost 3000 tonnes of Ammonium Nitrate was stored at the port for six years. The explosion in the month of August was felt in Turkey, Syria, Israel Palestine and parts of Europe. It was one of the most powerful non-nuclear explosions in history. The Hezbollah is said to have a sizeable influence in the running of the port. After the Beirut blasts, Lebanon's Prime Minister Hassan Diab and his entire cabinet resigned. But the people are still angry. A senior Hezbollah leader gave an interview to WION and refused to take any responsibility. However, just making statements will not help the Hezbollah. The group, that entered politics through militancy seems to have lost the support of the public. Hezbollah may have sizeable political power, but it is now accused of protecting a corrupt political class. With the US now stepping up the heat, Lebanon seems to be slipping out of the hands of Hezbollah.

Hezbollah has stashed Ammonium Nitrate across Europe, says US

Lebanon army said that it found 1.3 tonnes of fireworks at Beirut port devasted by the huge blast that took place in August. The blast was blamed on large quantity of chemicals stored in poor condition.&nbsp;

Lebanese army released a statement on its website on Friday and said that 1320 kgs of fireworks were found in 120 boxes. Army engineers disposed of them.

Beirut Port was devastated in a huge blast on August 4. More than 2 thousand tonnes of Ammonium Nitrate went up in flames and caused a blast that killed at least 190 people and injured more than 6000 people. The Lebanese army said on September 3 that it found an additional 4 .35 tonnes of Ammonium Nitrate near the entrance to the port.

'No evidence' of Hezbollah storing Ammonium Nitrate in France

France's foreign ministry on Friday said there was no evidence to suggest the armed wing of Lebanon's Hezbollah was storing chemicals to make explosives in France after a senior U.S. official said the group had set up caches in Europe since 2012.

Speaking on Thursday, Nathan Sales, the U.S. State Department's coordinator for counterterrorism, accused the Iran-backed group of smuggling and storing chemicals, including ammonium nitrate, from Belgium to France, Greece, Italy, Spain and Switzerland.

"It stores these weapons in places so it can conduct major terrorist attacks whenever its masters in Tehran deem necessary," Sales said in a briefing without elaborating or providing evidence of the activities.

"To our knowledge, there is nothing tangible to confirm such an allegation in France today," foreign ministry spokeswoman Agnes von der Muhll told reporters in response to Sales' allegations.

(With Reuters inputs) 
&nbsp;

Lebanon army said that it found 1.3 tonnes of fireworks at Beirut port devasted by the huge blast that took place in August. The blast was blamed on large quantity of chemicals stored in poor condition.

Lebanon army said that it found 1.3 tonnes of fireworks at Beirut port devasted by the huge blast that took place in August. The blast was blamed on large quantity of chemicals stored in poor condition. Lebanese army released a statement on its website on Friday and said that 1320 kgs of fireworks were found in 120 boxes. Army engineers disposed of them. Beirut Port was devastated in a huge blast on August 4. More than 2 thousand tonnes of Ammonium Nitrate went up in flames and caused a blast that killed at least 190 people and injured more than 6000 people. The Lebanese army said on September 3 that it found an additional 4 .35 tonnes of Ammonium Nitrate near the entrance to the port. 'No evidence' of Hezbollah storing Ammonium Nitrate in France France's foreign ministry on Friday said there was no evidence to suggest the armed wing of Lebanon's Hezbollah was storing chemicals to make explosives in France after a senior U.S. official said the group had set up caches in Europe since 2012. Speaking on Thursday, Nathan Sales, the U.S. State Department's coordinator for counterterrorism, accused the Iran-backed group of smuggling and storing chemicals, including ammonium nitrate, from Belgium to France, Greece, Italy, Spain and Switzerland. "It stores these weapons in places so it can conduct major terrorist attacks whenever its masters in Tehran deem necessary," Sales said in a briefing without elaborating or providing evidence of the activities. "To our knowledge, there is nothing tangible to confirm such an allegation in France today," foreign ministry spokeswoman Agnes von der Muhll told reporters in response to Sales' allegations. (With Reuters inputs)

Lebanon army finds 1.3 tonnes of fireworks at destroyed Beirut port

Lebanese soldiers fired rubber bullets and live rounds in air as hundreds of protesters tried to march to the presidential place. It was an anti-government demonstration the call for which was given in the Baabda suburb of Beirut.

There is still a lot of anger against the government among the citizens after the devastating blast at the Beirut port. The blast killed nearly 200 people and injured 6500. To add to the scare, another mysterious and huge blaze was seen at the same site on Thursday.

As the protesters gathered in Baabda where the presidential palace is located, a counter-protest was organised by supporters of Lebanese President Michel Aoun at the same location.

Lebanese soldiers intervened to avoid clashes between the two groups and stood between them. They also blocked the way to the presidential palace.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-condemns-bahrain-but-will-more-arab-countries-befriend-israel-in-near-future-327103">Hezbollah condemns Bahrain, but will more Arab countries befriend Israel in near future?</a>

As some of anti-government protesters attempted to break the security cordon and tried to make a dash for the presidential palace, soldiers shot rubber bullets and live rounds in the air.

The anger persists in the country as it is not yet known who was responsible for the Beirut blast. The catastrophe proved to be a tipping point for the collective public anger against years of government mismanagement that has resulted in a deep economic and financial crisis in Lebanon. 
&nbsp;

Lebanese soldiers fired rubber bullets and live rounds in air as hundreds of protesters tried to march to the presidential place. It was an anti-government demonstration the call for which was given in the Baabda suburb of Beirut.

Lebanese soldiers fired rubber bullets and live rounds in air as hundreds of protesters tried to march to the presidential place. It was an anti-government demonstration the call for which was given in the Baabda suburb of Beirut. There is still a lot of anger against the government among the citizens after the devastating blast at the Beirut port. The blast killed nearly 200 people and injured 6500. To add to the scare, another mysterious and huge blaze was seen at the same site on Thursday. As the protesters gathered in Baabda where the presidential palace is located, a counter-protest was organised by supporters of Lebanese President Michel Aoun at the same location. Lebanese soldiers intervened to avoid clashes between the two groups and stood between them. They also blocked the way to the presidential palace. Also Read | Hezbollah condemns Bahrain, but will more Arab countries befriend Israel in near future? As some of anti-government protesters attempted to break the security cordon and tried to make a dash for the presidential palace, soldiers shot rubber bullets and live rounds in the air. The anger persists in the country as it is not yet known who was responsible for the Beirut blast. The catastrophe proved to be a tipping point for the collective public anger against years of government mismanagement that has resulted in a deep economic and financial crisis in Lebanon.

Fresh anti-government protests break out in Lebanon, soldiers fire rounds in air to disperse crowd

Before starting the second phase of funding for blast-hit Lebanon, the&nbsp;European Union's commissioner for crisis management has called for an urgent formation of a "credible" government.

The EU has, till now, mobilised close to $79 million (64 million euros) as an emergency response to the country after Beirut was rocked by a devastating explosion at the port, killing nearly 200 people and injuring several thousands in the early days of August this year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beirut-fire-could-be-due-to-sabotage-ignorance-or-negligence-president-aoun-326586">Also read|&nbsp;Beirut fire could be due to sabotage, ignorance or negligence: President Aoun</a>

However, Janez Lenarcic has now said that the next round of funding will only be provided after Lebanon forms a credible government.

The next round of funding, which is supposed to help the government in restructuring the port and other structures, ave to wait as funding would have to go hand in hand with reforms because the international community was not willing to support practices "that led to financial collapse and economic crisis".

"We need a credible government that enjoys the confidence of the Lebanese people and is determined to take the country in the right direction," Lenarcic said.

"Lebanon's political class has to provide what people demand and this is also what the international community expects. I'm talking about governance, not only economic reforms. There has to be a change in the way this place is governed," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-signs-of-life-in-rubble-after-three-day-search-for-beirut-blast-survivors-rescue-workers-325474">Also Read|&nbsp;'No signs of life' in rubble after three-day search for Beirut blast survivors</a>

The statement has come after Lebanon rejected an international investigation claiming the country will carry out an investigation on its own — which has brought back the long-lying issue of corruption within the government.

"The EU commission supports reaching an agreement with the IMF because that would unlock substantial resources that Lebanon desperately needs to revive its economy," Lenarcic said.

Lebanon was already suffering through an economic crisis due to coronavirus and the locals were alleging the government of being corrupt, when Beirut ports experienced the biggest explosion the country has seen in years, and destroyed structures and took hundreds of lives.

A month after the explosion, another massive fire broke out at Beirut port engulfing a warehouse that was storing&nbsp;engine oil and vehicle tyres. In response,&nbsp;President Michel Aoun said, "Today's fire could be an intentional act of sabotage, the result of a technical error, ignorance, or negligence. In all cases, the cause needs to be known as soon as possible, and those responsible held to account."

Before starting the second phase of funding for blast-hit Lebanon, the European Union's commissioner for crisis management has called for an urgent formation of a "credible" government.

Before starting the second phase of funding for blast-hit Lebanon, the European Union's commissioner for crisis management has called for an urgent formation of a "credible" government. The EU has, till now, mobilised close to $79 million (64 million euros) as an emergency response to the country after Beirut was rocked by a devastating explosion at the port, killing nearly 200 people and injuring several thousands in the early days of August this year. Also read| Beirut fire could be due to sabotage, ignorance or negligence: President Aoun However, Janez Lenarcic has now said that the next round of funding will only be provided after Lebanon forms a credible government. The next round of funding, which is supposed to help the government in restructuring the port and other structures, ave to wait as funding would have to go hand in hand with reforms because the international community was not willing to support practices "that led to financial collapse and economic crisis". "We need a credible government that enjoys the confidence of the Lebanese people and is determined to take the country in the right direction," Lenarcic said. "Lebanon's political class has to provide what people demand and this is also what the international community expects. I'm talking about governance, not only economic reforms. There has to be a change in the way this place is governed," he said. Also Read| 'No signs of life' in rubble after three-day search for Beirut blast survivors The statement has come after Lebanon rejected an international investigation claiming the country will carry out an investigation on its own — which has brought back the long-lying issue of corruption within the government. "The EU commission supports reaching an agreement with the IMF because that would unlock substantial resources that Lebanon desperately needs to revive its economy," Lenarcic said. Lebanon was already suffering through an economic crisis due to coronavirus and the locals were alleging the government of being corrupt, when Beirut ports experienced the biggest explosion the country has seen in years, and destroyed structures and took hundreds of lives. A month after the explosion, another massive fire broke out at Beirut port engulfing a warehouse that was storing engine oil and vehicle tyres. In response, President Michel Aoun said, "Today's fire could be an intentional act of sabotage, the result of a technical error, ignorance, or negligence. In all cases, the cause needs to be known as soon as possible, and those responsible held to account."

Lebanon: EU demands more 'credible' government before second phase of funding

Lebanese citizens continues to protest against the government following the massive Beirut port blast that killed more than 190 people. Protesters marched to the Presidential palace announcing a lack of progress in a probe into the blast that ravished the city of Beirut.

Beirut blast protest: Lebanese protesters march to Presidential palace

Standing in a pile of broken glass in northern Lebanon, a man forced shovel-loads of shards retrieved from Beirut after the massive explosion at its port into a red-hot furnace. Melted down at a factory in second city Tripoli, they re-emerged as molten glass ready to be recycled into traditional slim-necked water jugs.

Beirut: Recycling glass debris to make beautiful glassware

Rescue and salvage teams are still working in Beirut, large parts of which lie in devastated condition one month after the blast.

Video: A month since the deadly Beirut blast!

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

Rescue and salvage teams are still working in Beirut, large parts of which lie in devastated condition one&nbsp;month after the blast.

September 4 marked the completion of a month of the blast that killed at least 180 people and injured around 6,000. The blast took place at Beirut port where 2759 tonnes of highly flammable ammonium nitrate was stored.

Rescue workers are still digging the rubble in the hope&nbsp;of finding survivors.

Rescue workers detect&nbsp;"heartbeat"&nbsp;under debris:

Rescue workers had detected a 'heartbeat' or a pulse on their sensor equipments in Mar Mikhael in Beirut. Head of the Chilean rescue team even told reporters on Friday that slow breathing had been detected under the rubble.

The workers then set about digging the area. However, no living person or a body was found till Saturday afternoon.

Rescuers are using scanning equipment to create 3D images of the wrecked building, which once housed a bar on its ground floor, to try to locate anyone alive, television showed.

The localities of Gemmayze and Mar Mikhael have been hardest hit due to the explosion.

City mourns the tragedy:

Authorities in Beirut held ceremonies on September 4 to mark one month of the tragedy that dealt a heavy blow to the city already reeling under economic crisis.

Lebanese government under Hassan Diab resigned in the aftermath of the blast. New government has a huge task ahead of it as Beirut residents are angry and not afraid to express it. Residents still feel that the government is not doing enough to address the situation.

"The government has been completely complacent, has been completely absent," said Stephanie Bou Chedid, a volunteer from a group helping victims of the blast. She was quoted by Reuters.

President Michel Aoun followed up on the operation in a phone call with the civil defence head, the presidency said.

Mohamed Houry, 65, said he hoped someone was alive but, even if only bodies were uncovered, "it`s important their families can find peace". 
&nbsp;

Rescue and salvage teams are still working in Beirut, large parts of which lie in devastated condition one month after the blast. September 4 marked the completion of a month of the blast that killed at least 180 people and injured around 6,000.

Rescue and salvage teams are still working in Beirut, large parts of which lie in devastated condition one month after the blast. September 4 marked the completion of a month of the blast that killed at least 180 people and injured around 6,000. The blast took place at Beirut port where 2759 tonnes of highly flammable ammonium nitrate was stored. Rescue workers are still digging the rubble in the hope of finding survivors. Rescue workers detect "heartbeat" under debris: Rescue workers had detected a 'heartbeat' or a pulse on their sensor equipments in Mar Mikhael in Beirut. Head of the Chilean rescue team even told reporters on Friday that slow breathing had been detected under the rubble. The workers then set about digging the area. However, no living person or a body was found till Saturday afternoon. Rescuers are using scanning equipment to create 3D images of the wrecked building, which once housed a bar on its ground floor, to try to locate anyone alive, television showed. The localities of Gemmayze and Mar Mikhael have been hardest hit due to the explosion. City mourns the tragedy: Authorities in Beirut held ceremonies on September 4 to mark one month of the tragedy that dealt a heavy blow to the city already reeling under economic crisis. Lebanese government under Hassan Diab resigned in the aftermath of the blast. New government has a huge task ahead of it as Beirut residents are angry and not afraid to express it. Residents still feel that the government is not doing enough to address the situation. "The government has been completely complacent, has been completely absent," said Stephanie Bou Chedid, a volunteer from a group helping victims of the blast. She was quoted by Reuters. President Michel Aoun followed up on the operation in a phone call with the civil defence head, the presidency said. Mohamed Houry, 65, said he hoped someone was alive but, even if only bodies were uncovered, "it`s important their families can find peace".

Beirut blast: One month later, rescue workers still search for survivors

In what is indicative of the greater impact of Beirut blast, Unicef released its estimate saying that tragedy has caused trauma to 600,000 children. Unicef representative to Lebanon Yukie Mokuo addressed the media on Friday and provided information.

She said that impact of the Beirut blast was not only in terms of physical injuries but also psychological. The blast, which claimed at least 180 lives and injured thousands has had an impact of thousands of families and children were caught in social, medical and other after-effects.

Mokuo said that it was necessary for us to ensure that children could speak out and play.

She said that Unicef had begun to provide psycho-social support to children and 2000 children had been brought under the folds of its outreach.

Latest on Beirut blast:

The tragedy completed a month on September 4. Authorities in the city organised programs to remember those who perished in Lebanon's largest peacetime tragedy.

Rescue and salvage workers are still working. They are trying to locate survivors who may still be buried under the debris but the chances of anyone surviving under the rubble are dimming with each passing moment.

On Friday, rescuers detected a 'heartbeat' on their sensors in Mar Mikhael area of the city. This gave rise to speculation that someone was trapped under the debris and was still alive. However, subsequent search has not yielded anything.

Residents of Beirut have been quoted by news agencies as being unhappy with the government efforts in the aftermath of the blast. 
&nbsp;

In what is indicative of the greater impact of Beirut blast, Unicef released its estimate saying that tragedy has caused trauma to 600,000 children. Unicef representative to Lebanon Yukie Mokuo addressed the media on Friday and provided information.

In what is indicative of the greater impact of Beirut blast, Unicef released its estimate saying that tragedy has caused trauma to 600,000 children. Unicef representative to Lebanon Yukie Mokuo addressed the media on Friday and provided information. She said that impact of the Beirut blast was not only in terms of physical injuries but also psychological. The blast, which claimed at least 180 lives and injured thousands has had an impact of thousands of families and children were caught in social, medical and other after-effects. Mokuo said that it was necessary for us to ensure that children could speak out and play. She said that Unicef had begun to provide psycho-social support to children and 2000 children had been brought under the folds of its outreach. Latest on Beirut blast: The tragedy completed a month on September 4. Authorities in the city organised programs to remember those who perished in Lebanon's largest peacetime tragedy. Rescue and salvage workers are still working. They are trying to locate survivors who may still be buried under the debris but the chances of anyone surviving under the rubble are dimming with each passing moment. On Friday, rescuers detected a 'heartbeat' on their sensors in Mar Mikhael area of the city. This gave rise to speculation that someone was trapped under the debris and was still alive. However, subsequent search has not yielded anything. Residents of Beirut have been quoted by news agencies as being unhappy with the government efforts in the aftermath of the blast.

Beirut blast has caused trauma to 600,000 children, says Unicef

People in Lebanon observed a minute of silence, marking the passing of one month since the devastating Beirut Port explosion that shook the country and in honour of the 190 people killed by the blast.

One month of deadly blast, people in Lebanon observed one minute of silence

French President Emmanuel Macron said Lebanon's embattled leaders had pledged Tuesday to form a crisis cabinet within two weeks to push forward with key reforms, as he visited the disaster-hit country.&nbsp;

Macron is&nbsp;in Beirut for a second time since an August 4 explosion there which killed more than 180 people, laid waste to entire city districts and fuelled popular rage against the country's political elite.

He attended muted celebrations marking the centenary of Greater Lebanon, shortly after political leaders settled on a new prime minister, Mustapha Adib, to form a cabinet and lead the country out of political turmoil and an economic crisis that was already crippling the country before the portside blast.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-warns-lebanese-leaders-of-sanctions-if-reforms-are-not-swift-324479" hreflang="en">Macron warns Lebanese leaders of sanctions if reforms are not swift</a>

"What all political parties without exception have committed to this evening right here, is that the formation of this government will not take more than 15 days," he said.

Macron had set himself an ambitious goal for his return visit:&nbsp;to push for deep change, but without being seen as meddling in the former French mandate.

"This is the last chance for the Lebanese system," he warned earlier.

Also see|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/timeline-from-devastating-beirut-blast-to-new-lebanese-government-324543" hreflang="en">Timeline: From devastating Beirut blast to new Lebanese government</a>

Macron spoke to the press after meeting top Lebanese politicians, while clashes erupted in central Beirut between security forces and protesters rejecting the new prime minister.

One held a poster aloft urging Macron: "Do not cooperate with the corrupt and criminal."

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New conferences&nbsp;

The French leader arrived Monday, just hours after Adib, a little-known 48-year-old academic and former ambassador to Germany, was designated to form a&nbsp;government.&nbsp;

Macron said it was not his place to "approve" the designation of Adib, whom he met late Monday and again on Tuesday.

The premier designate "has to be given all the tools to succeed... so he can implement reforms" long demanded by the international community, Macron said.

The Beirut explosion compounded Lebanon's worst economic crisis since the war, which has reached the point where the UN has warned that more than half of the population risk food shortages by the end of the year.

On August 9, international donors pledged over&nbsp;$300 million&nbsp;in emergency aid, during a video conference jointly organised by France and the United Nations.

Macron said he was ready to host a second Lebanon aid conference in the second half of October.

He added he had also invited the president, the prime minister and parliament speaker to a second political conference at the same time.

Macron had kicked off his trip not by visiting political leaders, but by spending more than an hour Monday with singing legend Fairuz, who at 85 is a rare unifying figure in Lebanon.

On Tuesday, Macron attended a series of events to mark 100 years since French mandate authorities proclaimed the creation of Greater Lebanon.

In the Jaj forest northeast of Beirut, he planted a cedar tree,&nbsp;Lebanon's national symbol, to express "confidence in the future of the country," his office said.

Macron also returned for a second visit to Beirut port, ground zero of the colossal blast.

French air force jets flew overhead, leaving trails of red, white and green smoke, the colours of the Lebanese flag.

Some on social media criticised the aerial manoeuvre, saying it could trigger traumatic memories among people who experienced the port blast and the 1975-1990 civil war.

Hezbollah has 'popular base'

Activists have blamed the country's entrenched political class for the August 4 explosion of hundreds of tonnes of ammonium nitrate after languishing unsafe in the port for years.

They have rejected the choice of Adib as premier, over being too close to established political circles.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, hundreds of protesters called for the proclamation of a secular state, to replace the multi-confessional country's sectarian power sharing system.

Clashes erupted in the evening, sparking condemnation from activists who denounced the police for beating protesters and alleged that French tear gas had been used.

Representatives of the powerful Shiite Muslim Hezbollah movement, designated by the US as a terrorist group, were among those who met Macron Tuesday.&nbsp;

Macron said Hezbollah, which is part of a bloc that has a majority in parliament, "is probably in parliament because of intimidation but also because other forces have failed to run the country well," but it also had a "popular base".

The issue of the disarmement of the group's military would eventually need to be broached, he said, though not immediately.

"This is exactly the discussion we had an hour ago... It should not be a taboo," he said.

French President Emmanuel Macron said Lebanon's embattled leaders had pledged Tuesday to form a crisis cabinet within two weeks to push forward with key reforms, as he visited the disaster-hit country.

French President Emmanuel Macron said Lebanon's embattled leaders had pledged Tuesday to form a crisis cabinet within two weeks to push forward with key reforms, as he visited the disaster-hit country. Macron is in Beirut for a second time since an August 4 explosion there which killed more than 180 people, laid waste to entire city districts and fuelled popular rage against the country's political elite. He attended muted celebrations marking the centenary of Greater Lebanon, shortly after political leaders settled on a new prime minister, Mustapha Adib, to form a cabinet and lead the country out of political turmoil and an economic crisis that was already crippling the country before the portside blast. Also read| Macron warns Lebanese leaders of sanctions if reforms are not swift "What all political parties without exception have committed to this evening right here, is that the formation of this government will not take more than 15 days," he said. Macron had set himself an ambitious goal for his return visit: to push for deep change, but without being seen as meddling in the former French mandate. "This is the last chance for the Lebanese system," he warned earlier. Also see| Timeline: From devastating Beirut blast to new Lebanese government Macron spoke to the press after meeting top Lebanese politicians, while clashes erupted in central Beirut between security forces and protesters rejecting the new prime minister. One held a poster aloft urging Macron: "Do not cooperate with the corrupt and criminal." New conferences The French leader arrived Monday, just hours after Adib, a little-known 48-year-old academic and former ambassador to Germany, was designated to form a government. Macron said it was not his place to "approve" the designation of Adib, whom he met late Monday and again on Tuesday. The premier designate "has to be given all the tools to succeed... so he can implement reforms" long demanded by the international community, Macron said. The Beirut explosion compounded Lebanon's worst economic crisis since the war, which has reached the point where the UN has warned that more than half of the population risk food shortages by the end of the year. On August 9, international donors pledged over $300 million in emergency aid, during a video conference jointly organised by France and the United Nations. Macron said he was ready to host a second Lebanon aid conference in the second half of October. He added he had also invited the president, the prime minister and parliament speaker to a second political conference at the same time. Macron had kicked off his trip not by visiting political leaders, but by spending more than an hour Monday with singing legend Fairuz, who at 85 is a rare unifying figure in Lebanon. On Tuesday, Macron attended a series of events to mark 100 years since French mandate authorities proclaimed the creation of Greater Lebanon. In the Jaj forest northeast of Beirut, he planted a cedar tree, Lebanon's national symbol, to express "confidence in the future of the country," his office said. Macron also returned for a second visit to Beirut port, ground zero of the colossal blast. French air force jets flew overhead, leaving trails of red, white and green smoke, the colours of the Lebanese flag. Some on social media criticised the aerial manoeuvre, saying it could trigger traumatic memories among people who experienced the port blast and the 1975-1990 civil war. Hezbollah has 'popular base' Activists have blamed the country's entrenched political class for the August 4 explosion of hundreds of tonnes of ammonium nitrate after languishing unsafe in the port for years. They have rejected the choice of Adib as premier, over being too close to established political circles. On Tuesday, hundreds of protesters called for the proclamation of a secular state, to replace the multi-confessional country's sectarian power sharing system. Clashes erupted in the evening, sparking condemnation from activists who denounced the police for beating protesters and alleged that French tear gas had been used. Representatives of the powerful Shiite Muslim Hezbollah movement, designated by the US as a terrorist group, were among those who met Macron Tuesday. Macron said Hezbollah, which is part of a bloc that has a majority in parliament, "is probably in parliament because of intimidation but also because other forces have failed to run the country well," but it also had a "popular base". The issue of the disarmement of the group's military would eventually need to be broached, he said, though not immediately. "This is exactly the discussion we had an hour ago... It should not be a taboo," he said.

Lebanon leaders have promised cabinet within two weeks, says Macron

French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Lebanon on early hours of Tuesday as Lebanese political parties reached consensus on the next Prime Minister of Lebanon. France spent its political capital in Lebanon that is reeling from a financial crisis even as swathes of Beirut lay in waste due to a devastating blast that took place in August.

Macron is visiting Beirut for the second time in less than a month to press for a new government made up of experts untainted by corruption and capable of rooting out graft, waste and negligence as well as rebuilding after the August 4 explosion that wrecked large areas of Beirut, killing 190 people.

 
Macron tweets in Arabic:

Emmanuel Macron addressed the Lebanese people in an Arabic-language tweet, saying he had returned as promised to "work together to create necessary conditions for reconstruction and stability".

Macron began his trip to Beirut on Monday by visiting Fairouz, one of the Arab world`s most famous singers whose haunting voice has been Lebanon`s soundtrack from its glamorous heyday through its conflicts and latest trauma.

Anger at Lebanon`s political elite over an economic meltdown and this month`s devastating port blast was evident as Macron arrived at the home of the 85-year old artist, feted as a national treasure and symbol of peace, transcending factional and sectarian divides in Lebanon and beyond.

Also Read: <a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/lebanon-names-mustapha-adib-its-germany-envoy-as-new-prime-minister-324276">Lebanon names Mustapha Adib, its Germany envoy, as new prime minister</a> 
 
Macron`s visit coincides with Lebanon`s centenary, at a time of profound doubts that it has a future as a viable state under the sway of former warlords and sectarian leaders loyal to different regional masters, Iran and Saudi Arabia.

Macron made a series of phone calls to Lebanese leaders at the weekend that were vital to securing consensus on Adib.

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"It was the pressure of his calls to everyone, the pressure of his coming to Lebanon, the pressure of everyone not wanting to upset him," a senior Lebanese politician said.

 
New Lebanese PM:

Lebanese political parties on Monday reached a consensus and the name of Mustapha Adib has been finalised as the country's next prime minister. Adib, who has Doctorate in Law and Political Science, later visited parts of Beirut that were devasted by the blast.

The explosion, in which volatile chemicals stored unsafely for years detonated, led to the resignation of the previous government, now acting as caretaker.

Mustapha Adib's name was suggested by previous prime ministers including Saad al-Hariri, &nbsp;who heads the biggest Sunni Muslim party. Mustapha Adib has also won the support of the Hezbollah.

"The opportunity for our country is small and the mission I have accepted is based on all the political forces acknowledging that," said Adib 
&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Lebanon on early hours of Tuesday as Lebanese political parties reached consensus on the next Prime Minister of Lebanon.

French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Lebanon on early hours of Tuesday as Lebanese political parties reached consensus on the next Prime Minister of Lebanon. France spent its political capital in Lebanon that is reeling from a financial crisis even as swathes of Beirut lay in waste due to a devastating blast that took place in August. Macron is visiting Beirut for the second time in less than a month to press for a new government made up of experts untainted by corruption and capable of rooting out graft, waste and negligence as well as rebuilding after the August 4 explosion that wrecked large areas of Beirut, killing 190 people. Macron tweets in Arabic: Emmanuel Macron addressed the Lebanese people in an Arabic-language tweet, saying he had returned as promised to "work together to create necessary conditions for reconstruction and stability". Macron began his trip to Beirut on Monday by visiting Fairouz, one of the Arab world`s most famous singers whose haunting voice has been Lebanon`s soundtrack from its glamorous heyday through its conflicts and latest trauma. Anger at Lebanon`s political elite over an economic meltdown and this month`s devastating port blast was evident as Macron arrived at the home of the 85-year old artist, feted as a national treasure and symbol of peace, transcending factional and sectarian divides in Lebanon and beyond. Also Read: Lebanon names Mustapha Adib, its Germany envoy, as new prime minister Macron`s visit coincides with Lebanon`s centenary, at a time of profound doubts that it has a future as a viable state under the sway of former warlords and sectarian leaders loyal to different regional masters, Iran and Saudi Arabia. Macron made a series of phone calls to Lebanese leaders at the weekend that were vital to securing consensus on Adib. × "It was the pressure of his calls to everyone, the pressure of his coming to Lebanon, the pressure of everyone not wanting to upset him," a senior Lebanese politician said. New Lebanese PM: Lebanese political parties on Monday reached a consensus and the name of Mustapha Adib has been finalised as the country's next prime minister. Adib, who has Doctorate in Law and Political Science, later visited parts of Beirut that were devasted by the blast. The explosion, in which volatile chemicals stored unsafely for years detonated, led to the resignation of the previous government, now acting as caretaker. Mustapha Adib's name was suggested by previous prime ministers including Saad al-Hariri, who heads the biggest Sunni Muslim party. Mustapha Adib has also won the support of the Hezbollah. "The opportunity for our country is small and the mission I have accepted is based on all the political forces acknowledging that," said Adib

French President Macron arrives in Lebanon as Mustapha Adib named next PM

Timeline: From devastating Beirut blast to new Lebanese government

Lebanon`s ambassador to Germany Mustapha Adib is poised to be designated prime minister on Monday after winning the support of major parties to form a new government facing a crippling financial crisis and the aftermath of the Beirut port explosion.

The nomination followed contacts by French President Emmanuel Macron over the last 48 hours to press Lebanese leaders to agree on a candidate, two senior Lebanese officials said, just ahead of a visit by the French leader to Lebanon this week.

Macron has taken centre stage in international efforts to get Lebanon`s fractious leaders to start addressing a financial crisis that had devastated the economy even before the Aug. 4 port blast that killed some 190 people.

A French presidency source said Macron had been in contact by phone with the main protagonists on Saturday and Sunday. "The president is informed of the negotiations underway in Beirut," the source said. Macron arrives in Beirut late on Monday.

Last week, contacts among Lebanese leaders to agree a new prime minister were deadlocked. One of the two senior Lebanese sources said Macron`s role had been essential in clinching the agreement on Adib.

The previous government led by Hassan Diab quit on Aug. 10 over the port blast in which a massive amount of unsafely stored chemicals detonated.

Adib has a doctorate in law and political science and previously served as an adviser to Najib Mikati, a former prime minister. He has served as ambassador to Germany since 2013.

The post of prime minister must go to a Sunni Muslim in Lebanon`s sectarian system. Adib`s candidacy won vital political backing on Sunday from former prime ministers including Saad al-Hariri, who heads the biggest Sunni party, the Future Movement.

President Michel Aoun, a Maronite Christian, is due to meet parliamentary blocs on Monday in the official consultations to designate the new premier. He is required to nominate the candidate with biggest level of support among MPs.

Lebanon`s dominant Shi`ite parties, Hezbollah and the Amal Movement led by Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, will both name Adib at the consultations, a senior Shi`ite source said.

The Christian Free Patriotic Movement (FPM), a political ally of Hezbollah which was founded by Aoun and is led today by his son-in-law Gebran Bassil, will do the same, Bassil told Reuters.

Once designated, the process of forming a new government will get underway. Until a new administration is agreed, the Diab government continues in a caretaker capacity.

Lebanon`s financial crisis has sunk the currency by as much as 80% since October, locked savers out their deposits in a paralysed banking system and fuelled poverty and unemployment.

Lebanon launched talks with the International Monetary Fund in May, after defaulting on its huge debt, aiming to secure financial support but these have stalled amid divisions on the Lebanese side over the scale of losses in the financial system.

Lebanon`s ambassador to Germany Mustapha Adib is poised to be designated prime minister on Monday after winning the support of major parties to form a new government facing a crippling financial crisis and the aftermath of the Beirut port explosion.

Lebanon`s ambassador to Germany Mustapha Adib is poised to be designated prime minister on Monday after winning the support of major parties to form a new government facing a crippling financial crisis and the aftermath of the Beirut port explosion. The nomination followed contacts by French President Emmanuel Macron over the last 48 hours to press Lebanese leaders to agree on a candidate, two senior Lebanese officials said, just ahead of a visit by the French leader to Lebanon this week. Macron has taken centre stage in international efforts to get Lebanon`s fractious leaders to start addressing a financial crisis that had devastated the economy even before the Aug. 4 port blast that killed some 190 people. A French presidency source said Macron had been in contact by phone with the main protagonists on Saturday and Sunday. "The president is informed of the negotiations underway in Beirut," the source said. Macron arrives in Beirut late on Monday. Last week, contacts among Lebanese leaders to agree a new prime minister were deadlocked. One of the two senior Lebanese sources said Macron`s role had been essential in clinching the agreement on Adib. The previous government led by Hassan Diab quit on Aug. 10 over the port blast in which a massive amount of unsafely stored chemicals detonated. Adib has a doctorate in law and political science and previously served as an adviser to Najib Mikati, a former prime minister. He has served as ambassador to Germany since 2013. The post of prime minister must go to a Sunni Muslim in Lebanon`s sectarian system. Adib`s candidacy won vital political backing on Sunday from former prime ministers including Saad al-Hariri, who heads the biggest Sunni party, the Future Movement. President Michel Aoun, a Maronite Christian, is due to meet parliamentary blocs on Monday in the official consultations to designate the new premier. He is required to nominate the candidate with biggest level of support among MPs. Lebanon`s dominant Shi`ite parties, Hezbollah and the Amal Movement led by Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, will both name Adib at the consultations, a senior Shi`ite source said. The Christian Free Patriotic Movement (FPM), a political ally of Hezbollah which was founded by Aoun and is led today by his son-in-law Gebran Bassil, will do the same, Bassil told Reuters. Once designated, the process of forming a new government will get underway. Until a new administration is agreed, the Diab government continues in a caretaker capacity. Lebanon`s financial crisis has sunk the currency by as much as 80% since October, locked savers out their deposits in a paralysed banking system and fuelled poverty and unemployment. Lebanon launched talks with the International Monetary Fund in May, after defaulting on its huge debt, aiming to secure financial support but these have stalled amid divisions on the Lebanese side over the scale of losses in the financial system.

Lebanese ambassador Adib poised to be designated PM

Hezbollah chief Hasan Nasrallah on Sunday said that his Shiite movement is "open" to a French proposal for a new political pact for Lebanon as long as there is national consensus. &nbsp;

"On his latest visit to Lebanon, we heard a call from the French president for a new political pact in Lebanon... today we are open to a constructive discussion in this regard," Nasrallah said in a speech.&nbsp;

"But we have one condition: this discussion should be carried out... with the will and consent of the various Lebanese factions."

Nasrallah did not elaborate on what kind of changes his movement was willing to consider but cited criticsm from "official French sources" over Lebanon's "sect-based political system and its inability to solve Lebanon's problems and respond to its needs."&nbsp;

Lebanon recognises 18 official religious sects and its 128 parliamentary seats are divided equally between Muslims and Christians, an arrangement unique in the region.&nbsp;

However, governments born out of this system have been prone to deadlock and have failed to meet popular demands for better living conditions.&nbsp;

Macron, the first world leader to visit Lebanon after the devastating August 4 Beirut port blast, will return on Monday to press for reform and reconstruction.&nbsp;

On his earlier visit days after the blast, the French president said Lebanese leaders had a "huge" responsibility: "that of a revamped pact with the Lebanese people in the coming weeks, that of deep change."&nbsp;

The explosion of a huge stockpile of ammonium nitrate fertiliser, left to languish for years in a warehouse, prompted the government to step down on August 10 and reignited a months-old protest movement demanding a political overhaul. &nbsp;

Consultations to name a new premier are set to begin on Monday in tandem with Macron's visit.&nbsp;

Nasrallah said his movement would be "cooperative" in the formation of a government capable of spearheading reform and reconstruction. &nbsp;

Many Lebanese have blamed the August 4 port blast on a ruling class seen as mired in nepotism and graft since the 1975-1990 civil war.&nbsp;

The explosion killed more than 180 people and laid entire districts to waste, reviving a protest movement that had emerged in October to demand the wholesale removal of the political elite.

On Friday, Macron spoke of the "constraints of a confessional system" in a country populated by Christians, Sunni Muslims and Shiites.&nbsp;

He said this, combined with "what can be mildly described as vested interests" &nbsp;had prevented political renewal and made reforms almost impossible.

Hezbollah chief Hasan Nasrallah on Sunday said that his Shiite movement is "open" to a French proposal for a new political pact for Lebanon as long as there is national consensus.

Hezbollah chief Hasan Nasrallah on Sunday said that his Shiite movement is "open" to a French proposal for a new political pact for Lebanon as long as there is national consensus. "On his latest visit to Lebanon, we heard a call from the French president for a new political pact in Lebanon... today we are open to a constructive discussion in this regard," Nasrallah said in a speech. "But we have one condition: this discussion should be carried out... with the will and consent of the various Lebanese factions." Nasrallah did not elaborate on what kind of changes his movement was willing to consider but cited criticsm from "official French sources" over Lebanon's "sect-based political system and its inability to solve Lebanon's problems and respond to its needs." Lebanon recognises 18 official religious sects and its 128 parliamentary seats are divided equally between Muslims and Christians, an arrangement unique in the region. However, governments born out of this system have been prone to deadlock and have failed to meet popular demands for better living conditions. Macron, the first world leader to visit Lebanon after the devastating August 4 Beirut port blast, will return on Monday to press for reform and reconstruction. On his earlier visit days after the blast, the French president said Lebanese leaders had a "huge" responsibility: "that of a revamped pact with the Lebanese people in the coming weeks, that of deep change." The explosion of a huge stockpile of ammonium nitrate fertiliser, left to languish for years in a warehouse, prompted the government to step down on August 10 and reignited a months-old protest movement demanding a political overhaul. Consultations to name a new premier are set to begin on Monday in tandem with Macron's visit. Nasrallah said his movement would be "cooperative" in the formation of a government capable of spearheading reform and reconstruction. Many Lebanese have blamed the August 4 port blast on a ruling class seen as mired in nepotism and graft since the 1975-1990 civil war. The explosion killed more than 180 people and laid entire districts to waste, reviving a protest movement that had emerged in October to demand the wholesale removal of the political elite. On Friday, Macron spoke of the "constraints of a confessional system" in a country populated by Christians, Sunni Muslims and Shiites. He said this, combined with "what can be mildly described as vested interests" had prevented political renewal and made reforms almost impossible.

Hezbollah ‘open’ to French proposal for new political order in Lebanon

A UN agency on Sunday said that over a half of Lebanon's population risk facing a food crisis in the aftermath of Beirut port blast. Also read: Beirut port blast death toll rises to 190 "More than half of the country's population is at risk of failing to access their basic food needs by the year's end," the UN Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) said.

A UN agency on Sunday said that over a half of Lebanon's population risk facing a food crisis in the aftermath of Beirut port blast. Also read: Beirut port blast death toll rises to 190 "More than half of the country's population is at risk of failing to access their basic food needs by the year's end," the UN Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) said. Also read: French President Macron warns of new civil war in Lebanon "Immediate measures should be taken to prevent a food crisis," ESCWA executive secretary Rola Dashti said. According to her, the Lebanese government must prioritise the rebuilding of silos at the Beirut port, the country's largest grain storage. Lebanon was already going through an economic collapse before the massive blast at Beirut's port that killed 190 people and wounded thousands. The country is facing problems like debt, the local currency has plummeted in value on the black market and soaring poverty rates with a spike in coronavirus cases. "The yearly average inflation rate is expected to be more than 50 percent in 2020, compared with 2.9 percent in 2019," ESCWA said in a statement. As per the aid agencies and experts, Lebanon relies on imports for 85 per cent of its food needs and the annihilation of the silos at the Beirut port could worsen an already alarming situation. ESCWA said increased transaction costs of food imports could lead to a further rise in prices. Rola Dashti added that to prevent a crisis, authorities must set a ceiling for food prices and encourage direct sales from local producers to consumers. She also urged the international community to "expand food security programmes targeting refugees and host communities" to help defuse "potential social tensions". Earlier this month, ESCWA said more than 55 per cent of the Lebanese are "trapped in poverty and struggling for bare necessities". (Inputs from AFP)

Half of Lebanon's population could face food crisis after Beirut port blast: UN

The death toll from this month`s Beirut port blast has risen to 190 with more than 6,500 injured and three people missing, Lebanon`s caretaker government said in a report dated Sunday.

Lebanese authorities are probing what caused highly explosive material stored unsafely for years to detonate in a mushroom cloud, wrecking swathes of the city and fuelling anger at a political class already blamed for the country`s economic meltdown.

The army said on Saturday that seven people were still missing - three Lebanese, three Syrians and one Egyptian. It was not immediately clear if some had since been found.

The Aug. 4 explosion left 300,000 people homeless and caused $15 billion in direct damage, said the report issued on Sunday by the presidency of the council of ministers.

It said 50,000 houses, nine major hospitals and 178 schools had been damaged.

The outgoing government quit over the blast.

The presidency will talk to parliamentary blocs on Monday to designate a new prime minister, a day before French

President Emmanuel Macron visits to press leaders to act to save the country from a deep financial crisis rooted in endemic corruption and mismanagement.

The death toll from this month`s Beirut port blast has risen to 190 with more than 6,500 injured and three people missing, Lebanon`s caretaker government said in a report dated Sunday.

The death toll from this month`s Beirut port blast has risen to 190 with more than 6,500 injured and three people missing, Lebanon`s caretaker government said in a report dated Sunday. Lebanese authorities are probing what caused highly explosive material stored unsafely for years to detonate in a mushroom cloud, wrecking swathes of the city and fuelling anger at a political class already blamed for the country`s economic meltdown. The army said on Saturday that seven people were still missing - three Lebanese, three Syrians and one Egyptian. It was not immediately clear if some had since been found. The Aug. 4 explosion left 300,000 people homeless and caused $15 billion in direct damage, said the report issued on Sunday by the presidency of the council of ministers. It said 50,000 houses, nine major hospitals and 178 schools had been damaged. The outgoing government quit over the blast. The presidency will talk to parliamentary blocs on Monday to designate a new prime minister, a day before French President Emmanuel Macron visits to press leaders to act to save the country from a deep financial crisis rooted in endemic corruption and mismanagement.

Beirut port blast death toll rises to 190

French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday warned that Lebanon risks a return to civil war if it is left alone to deal with the crisis that followed the deadly Beirut port explosion this month.

Macron was speaking as he prepared to head to Lebanon on Monday in a new bid to press its leaders to undertake radical reform in the wake of the explosion this month that left 181 dead.

“If we let Lebanon go in the region and if we somehow leave it in the hands of the depravity of regional powers, it will be civil war” as well as “the defeat of what is the very identity of Lebanon,” he said.

Paris is impatient over the lack of progress in forming a new government to undertake reform in the aftermath of the blast, which was blamed on a store of ammonium nitrate left for years in a warehouse.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-at-risk-of-disappearing-french-foreign-minister-warns-323433">Lebanon at 'risk of disappearing', French Foreign Minister warns</a> 
 
Many Lebanese have blamed the disaster on a ruling class they charge as being mired in nepotism, corruption and neglect since the 1975-1990 civil war.

Macron spoke of the “constraints of a confessional system” in a country populated by Christians, Sunni Muslims and Shiites.

But he said that added to this was “what can be mildly described as vested interests” and this had led to “a situation where there is hardly any [political] renewal and where there is there is almost an impossibility of carrying out reforms.”

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&nbsp;

He insisted that France would follow a policy of being “demanding without interfering” and awaited reforms like passing an anti-corruption law and reforming public contracts, the energy sector and the banking system.

“If we do not do this, the Lebanese economy will collapse” and “the only victim will be the Lebanese people… who cannot go into exile,” he warned.

He extolled Lebanon’s multi-confessional make-up saying it “is perhaps one of the last existing forms” in the Middle East of the “peaceful possible coexistence of religions” and a pluralist system based on “education and culture.” 
&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday warned that Lebanon risks a return to civil war if it is left alone to deal with the crisis that followed the deadly Beirut port explosion this month.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday warned that Lebanon risks a return to civil war if it is left alone to deal with the crisis that followed the deadly Beirut port explosion this month. Macron was speaking as he prepared to head to Lebanon on Monday in a new bid to press its leaders to undertake radical reform in the wake of the explosion this month that left 181 dead. “If we let Lebanon go in the region and if we somehow leave it in the hands of the depravity of regional powers, it will be civil war” as well as “the defeat of what is the very identity of Lebanon,” he said. Paris is impatient over the lack of progress in forming a new government to undertake reform in the aftermath of the blast, which was blamed on a store of ammonium nitrate left for years in a warehouse. Also Read | Lebanon at 'risk of disappearing', French Foreign Minister warns Many Lebanese have blamed the disaster on a ruling class they charge as being mired in nepotism, corruption and neglect since the 1975-1990 civil war. Macron spoke of the “constraints of a confessional system” in a country populated by Christians, Sunni Muslims and Shiites. But he said that added to this was “what can be mildly described as vested interests” and this had led to “a situation where there is hardly any [political] renewal and where there is there is almost an impossibility of carrying out reforms.” × He insisted that France would follow a policy of being “demanding without interfering” and awaited reforms like passing an anti-corruption law and reforming public contracts, the energy sector and the banking system. “If we do not do this, the Lebanese economy will collapse” and “the only victim will be the Lebanese people… who cannot go into exile,” he warned. He extolled Lebanon’s multi-confessional make-up saying it “is perhaps one of the last existing forms” in the Middle East of the “peaceful possible coexistence of religions” and a pluralist system based on “education and culture.”

French President Macron warns of new civil war in Lebanon

The Lebanese presidency will convene consultations with parliamentary blocs on Monday to designate a new prime minister, after the government quit earlier this month following the catastrophic explosion at Beirut port.

The post of prime minister must go to a Sunni Muslim in the Lebanese sectarian system. President Michel Aoun is required to designate the candidate with the greatest level of support among MPs.

Saad al-Hariri is so far the only serious name floated for the post to replace Hassan Diab, who continues in a caretaker capacity until a new government is agreed. But Hariri said earlier this week he was not a candidate after several major parties said they did not support his return to the job.

The consultations will take place a day before French President Emmanuel Macron visits Beirut as Paris presses Lebanese leaders to take action to save the country from a destabilising financial crisis.

The Iran-backed Shi'ite Hezbollah and its Shi'ite ally the Amal Movement want Hariri to be prime minister again. But Hezbollah's main Christian ally, the Free Patriotic Movement founded by Aoun, the Christian Lebanese Forces Party and Druze leader Walid Jumblatt, do not support Hariri's return to the job. 
&nbsp;

The Lebanese presidency will convene consultations with parliamentary blocs on Monday to designate a new prime minister, after the government quit earlier this month following the catastrophic explosion at Beirut port.

The Lebanese presidency will convene consultations with parliamentary blocs on Monday to designate a new prime minister, after the government quit earlier this month following the catastrophic explosion at Beirut port. The post of prime minister must go to a Sunni Muslim in the Lebanese sectarian system. President Michel Aoun is required to designate the candidate with the greatest level of support among MPs. Saad al-Hariri is so far the only serious name floated for the post to replace Hassan Diab, who continues in a caretaker capacity until a new government is agreed. But Hariri said earlier this week he was not a candidate after several major parties said they did not support his return to the job. The consultations will take place a day before French President Emmanuel Macron visits Beirut as Paris presses Lebanese leaders to take action to save the country from a destabilising financial crisis. The Iran-backed Shi'ite Hezbollah and its Shi'ite ally the Amal Movement want Hariri to be prime minister again. But Hezbollah's main Christian ally, the Free Patriotic Movement founded by Aoun, the Christian Lebanese Forces Party and Druze leader Walid Jumblatt, do not support Hariri's return to the job.

Lebanese presidency to convene consultations on Aug 31 to designate new PM

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

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian on Thursday said that Lebanon is at "risk of disappearing". He urged emergency reforms under a new government.

"The risk today is of Lebanon disappearing so these measures have to be taken," he told RTL radio ahead of President Emmanuel Macron's return visit to Beirut next week to push reform and reconstruction after the devastating port blast.

"They are caught up between themselves in a consensus of inactivity," Le Drian said. "That can't go on and we are saying that very clearly."

"The President of the Republic said it when he went to Lebanon on August 6. He will say it again when he'll be in Beirut on Tuesday."

Macron will begin his reconstruction efforts on Monday but will also look at the political scenario in Lebanon after the whole government resigned.&nbsp;

Macron visited Beirut two days after the massive explosion at the port killed 181 people and wounded thousands.

On August 9, he chaired a video conference that saw world leaders pledge more than 250 million euros ($295 million) for Lebanon.

"The country is on the edge of the precipice," Le Drian added, calling for a new government to be set up quickly. "There's a humanitarian and health emergency," he said.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian on Thursday said that Lebanon is at "risk of disappearing". He urged emergency reforms under a new government. "The risk today is of Lebanon disappearing so these measures have to be taken," he told RTL radio ahead of President Emmanuel Macron's return visit to Beirut next week to push reform and reconstruction after the devastating port blast.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian on Thursday said that Lebanon is at "risk of disappearing". He urged emergency reforms under a new government. "The risk today is of Lebanon disappearing so these measures have to be taken," he told RTL radio ahead of President Emmanuel Macron's return visit to Beirut next week to push reform and reconstruction after the devastating port blast. "They are caught up between themselves in a consensus of inactivity," Le Drian said. "That can't go on and we are saying that very clearly." "The President of the Republic said it when he went to Lebanon on August 6. He will say it again when he'll be in Beirut on Tuesday." Macron will begin his reconstruction efforts on Monday but will also look at the political scenario in Lebanon after the whole government resigned. Macron visited Beirut two days after the massive explosion at the port killed 181 people and wounded thousands. On August 9, he chaired a video conference that saw world leaders pledge more than 250 million euros ($295 million) for Lebanon. "The country is on the edge of the precipice," Le Drian added, calling for a new government to be set up quickly. "There's a humanitarian and health emergency," he said.

Lebanon at 'risk of disappearing', French Foreign Minister warns

The deadly Beirut explosion that killed 181 people, wounded thousands more and devastated swaths of the city, left many maimed, mostly because of flying shards of glass and debris.

The blast caught Lebanon at an extremely vulnerable point following months of severe economic crisis compounded by the coronavirus pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hard-on-the-eyes-beirut-blast-leaves-many-half-blinded-321390">Also read | Hard on the eyes: Beirut blast leaves many half-blinded</a> 
 
Now practitioners are warning of a national mental health emergency as people begin to show signs of trauma from the explosion, including nightmares, flashbacks, crying, anxiety, anger and exhaustion. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-prime-minister-hassan-diabs-government-resigns-over-beirut-blasts-319555" hreflang="en">Lebanon Prime Minister Hassan Diab's government resigns over Beirut blasts</a>

Psychologists say this is being exacerbated by the constant stream of images on Lebanese TV and social media showing the blast and its bloody aftermath.

"Every time we say it can't get worse in Lebanon, it somehow does," said Jad Daou, a volunteer with Lebanese mental health NGO Embrace, who mans the phones at its crisis clinic. "A lot of people are feeling hopeless about the entire situation here in Lebanon."

At least 400 people suffered ocular injuries, more than 50 required surgery, and at least 15 have been permanently blinded in one eye, according to data compiled by major hospitals in and around Beirut.

Lebanon has seen a spike in coronavirus-related cases and deaths in recent weeks, and they have hit a new record in the aftermath of the massive explosion that ripped through large parts of Beirut on August 4. 
 
(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;

The deadly Beirut explosion that killed 181 people, wounded thousands more and devastated swaths of the city, left many maimed, mostly because of flying shards of glass and debris.

The deadly Beirut explosion that killed 181 people, wounded thousands more and devastated swaths of the city, left many maimed, mostly because of flying shards of glass and debris. The blast caught Lebanon at an extremely vulnerable point following months of severe economic crisis compounded by the coronavirus pandemic. Also read | Hard on the eyes: Beirut blast leaves many half-blinded Now practitioners are warning of a national mental health emergency as people begin to show signs of trauma from the explosion, including nightmares, flashbacks, crying, anxiety, anger and exhaustion. Also read: Lebanon Prime Minister Hassan Diab's government resigns over Beirut blasts Psychologists say this is being exacerbated by the constant stream of images on Lebanese TV and social media showing the blast and its bloody aftermath. "Every time we say it can't get worse in Lebanon, it somehow does," said Jad Daou, a volunteer with Lebanese mental health NGO Embrace, who mans the phones at its crisis clinic. "A lot of people are feeling hopeless about the entire situation here in Lebanon." At least 400 people suffered ocular injuries, more than 50 required surgery, and at least 15 have been permanently blinded in one eye, according to data compiled by major hospitals in and around Beirut. Lebanon has seen a spike in coronavirus-related cases and deaths in recent weeks, and they have hit a new record in the aftermath of the massive explosion that ripped through large parts of Beirut on August 4. (With inputs from Reuters)

Nightmares, flashbacks, fatigue: Beirut faces mental health crisis after blast 

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