Lebanese Designers Count the Damage of Massive Blast in Beirut. The Designers reported no victims from the explosion, which destroyed their headquarters

Beirut blast aftermath | Elie Saab workshop destroyed In blast

The deadly Beirut explosion that killed 177 people, wounded thousands more and devastated swaths of the city, left many maimed, mostly because of flying shards of glass and debris.

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.

Sama,&nbsp;five-year-old girl from the northern Syrian city of Manbij, suffered an eye injury from the blast after&nbsp;sent shards of glass flying into her eyes.

Her father,&nbsp;Makhoul Al-Hamad, said, ''Sama was in the living room, a few meters away from the window. When the blast happened, her mother immediately engulfed her, thinking that she protected her. After more than three minutes, we realised that Sama's eye was injured and that she is bleeding."

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/60-heritage-sites-risk-collapse-after-beirut-blast-320546">60 heritage sites risk collapse after Beirut blast</a>

Maroun Dagher, a websolutions developer,&nbsp;was also blinded in one eye during the Beirut explosion.&nbsp;

He said he dreams that he&nbsp;could see&nbsp;everything but when he&nbsp;wakes up he realises it is just a dream.

"I had plans to learn new things. I had plans to learn skydiving, or to dive. You know, just plans that I wanted to do during my life. I don't know about my career because I am a developer, so I don't know how much I can still use the same skills," he said.

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>

Lebanon's health minister warned Monday that hospitals are reaching maximum capacity to treat coronavirus patients after the deadly Beirut blast overwhelmed clinics and as COVID-19 cases have mounted.

"Public and private hospitals in the capital in particular have a very limited capacity, whether in terms of beds in intensive care units or respirators," the minister, Hamad Hassan, told a press conference.

"We are on the brink, we don't have the luxury to take our time," he warned, calling for authorities to take the "hard decision" to impose a new two-week lockdown to stem the spread of the virus.&nbsp;

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.

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The deadly Beirut explosion that killed 177 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 177 people, wounded thousands more and devastated swaths of the city, left many maimed, mostly because of flying shards of glass and debris. 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. Sama, five-year-old girl from the northern Syrian city of Manbij, suffered an eye injury from the blast after sent shards of glass flying into her eyes. Her father, Makhoul Al-Hamad, said, ''Sama was in the living room, a few meters away from the window. When the blast happened, her mother immediately engulfed her, thinking that she protected her. After more than three minutes, we realised that Sama's eye was injured and that she is bleeding." Also see: 60 heritage sites risk collapse after Beirut blast Maroun Dagher, a websolutions developer, was also blinded in one eye during the Beirut explosion. He said he dreams that he could see everything but when he wakes up he realises it is just a dream. "I had plans to learn new things. I had plans to learn skydiving, or to dive. You know, just plans that I wanted to do during my life. I don't know about my career because I am a developer, so I don't know how much I can still use the same skills," he said. Also see: Satellite images capture Beirut before vs after devastating blast Lebanon's health minister warned Monday that hospitals are reaching maximum capacity to treat coronavirus patients after the deadly Beirut blast overwhelmed clinics and as COVID-19 cases have mounted. "Public and private hospitals in the capital in particular have a very limited capacity, whether in terms of beds in intensive care units or respirators," the minister, Hamad Hassan, told a press conference. "We are on the brink, we don't have the luxury to take our time," he warned, calling for authorities to take the "hard decision" to impose a new two-week lockdown to stem the spread of the virus. 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.

Hard on the eyes: Beirut blast leaves many half-blinded

The International Court of Justice(ICJ) said today that the assassination of Rafik Hariri was a political plot and there was no evidence that the Hezbollah was involved in the assassination.

The court further said there was no direct evidence of Syria's involvement.

The former Lebanon premier Hariri was murdered in 2005.&nbsp;Four alleged members of Hezbollah were on trial in absentia at the International Court of Justice over the suicide bombing in Beirut 15 years ago that killed Hariri and 21 other people.

Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah had&nbsp;refused to hand over the four defendants to the international court.

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The International Court of Justice(ICJ) said today that the assassination of Rafik Hariri was a political plot and there was no evidence that the Hezbollah was involved in the assassination.

The International Court of Justice(ICJ) said today that the assassination of Rafik Hariri was a political plot and there was no evidence that the Hezbollah was involved in the assassination. The court further said there was no direct evidence of Syria's involvement. The former Lebanon premier Hariri was murdered in 2005. Four alleged members of Hezbollah were on trial in absentia at the International Court of Justice over the suicide bombing in Beirut 15 years ago that killed Hariri and 21 other people. Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah had refused to hand over the four defendants to the international court.

Assassination of Lebanon's Rafik Hariri a political act, Syria &  Hezbollah not involved: ICJ

Lebanese President Michel Aoun dismissed as "impossible" the chance that a vast explosion in Beirut's port this month was caused by a blast from a deposit of Hezbollah arms, but said that all possibilities would be investigated.

Lebanese authorities are probing what caused massive amounts of ammonium nitrate warehoused unsafely for years at the port to denotate in a mushroom cloud on August&nbsp;4, killing 178 people, injuring 6,000 and destroying swathes of the city.

Aoun, an ally of the powerful Iran-backed Hezbollah movement, said in an interview published on Tuesday that the group did not store weapons at the port, echoing comments by Hezbollah's leader earlier this month.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hard-on-the-eyes-beirut-blast-leaves-many-half-blinded-321390">Hard on the eyes: Beirut blast leaves many half-blinded</a>

"Impossible, but serious events like these light up spirits and imagination," Aoun said when asked about people advancing the hypothesis, but added that "even this lead will be investigated".

Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah has denied accusations that his heavily armed movement had weaponry warehoused at Beirut port.

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>

He has said that the group would wait for results of the investigation but if it turns out to be an act of sabotage by Israel then it would "pay an equal price".

Hezbollah, which exercises sway over government in Lebanon, has fought several wars with Israel and is classified by the United States as a terrorist group.&nbsp;Israel has denied any involvement in the blast.

Aoun has said the probe is looking into whether neglect, an accident or "external interference" caused the blast.

"Although it seems that (it) has been an accident, I want to avoid being accused of not having listened to every voice," Aoun told the Italian daily.

He said that many people claimed seeing airplanes fly by the port just before the blast and, although "not very credible", they should be listened to.

Lebanese President Michel Aoun dismissed as "impossible" the chance that a vast explosion in Beirut's port this month was caused by a blast from a deposit of Hezbollah arms, but said that all possibilities would be investigated.

Lebanese President Michel Aoun dismissed as "impossible" the chance that a vast explosion in Beirut's port this month was caused by a blast from a deposit of Hezbollah arms, but said that all possibilities would be investigated. Lebanese authorities are probing what caused massive amounts of ammonium nitrate warehoused unsafely for years at the port to denotate in a mushroom cloud on August 4, killing 178 people, injuring 6,000 and destroying swathes of the city. Aoun, an ally of the powerful Iran-backed Hezbollah movement, said in an interview published on Tuesday that the group did not store weapons at the port, echoing comments by Hezbollah's leader earlier this month. Also read: Hard on the eyes: Beirut blast leaves many half-blinded "Impossible, but serious events like these light up spirits and imagination," Aoun said when asked about people advancing the hypothesis, but added that "even this lead will be investigated". Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah has denied accusations that his heavily armed movement had weaponry warehoused at Beirut port. Also see: Satellite images capture Beirut before vs after devastating blast He has said that the group would wait for results of the investigation but if it turns out to be an act of sabotage by Israel then it would "pay an equal price". Hezbollah, which exercises sway over government in Lebanon, has fought several wars with Israel and is classified by the United States as a terrorist group. Israel has denied any involvement in the blast. Aoun has said the probe is looking into whether neglect, an accident or "external interference" caused the blast. "Although it seems that (it) has been an accident, I want to avoid being accused of not having listened to every voice," Aoun told the Italian daily. He said that many people claimed seeing airplanes fly by the port just before the blast and, although "not very credible", they should be listened to.

Lebanese president says 'impossible' that Hezbollah behind Beirut blast

Lebanon has issued an arrest warrant for a customs official in connection with the blasts in Beirut which shook the city.&nbsp;AFP reported that a Lebanese judge has put out a warrant against customs director-general Badri Daher.

Daher had been kept in detention for over ten days in the aftermath of the August 4 explosion which led to the deaths of 177 people, and injured 6,500 people. The city suffered major damage due to the blast.

Explosives kept negligently&nbsp;

Most widely, a stuck stock of explosive ammonium nitrate stored unsecured in a port side warehouse for years has been blamed for the attack, citing negligence and corruption.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/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>

The judicial source told AFP that the judge Fadi Sawan interrogated Daher for four hours before the warrant was issued.

As per Lebanese law, one can be detained and questioned before they are formally arrested. The charges against Daher have not been revealed yet.

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Many more to be interrogated

Ghassan Queidat, a public prosecutor had filed lawsuits against 25 suspects after the blasts occurred. Out of these, 19 are currently in custody. These include the city port’s general manager Hassan Koraytem, who will be interrogated on Tuesday.

Additionally, former Lebanese customs director Shafic Merhi, port security head Mohammad Al-Awf and port warehouse manager Michel Nakhoul will also face the judge soon.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/nasa-maps-beirut-blast-damage-through-satellite-images-319647" hreflang="en">NASA maps Beirut blast damage through satellite images</a>

The Beirut blast was so powerful that it was felt as far away as northern Israel and Cyprus (240 km away), and measured as a 4.5 local magnitude earthquake on the Richter scale by the Seismological Observatory in Jordan.&nbsp;

Observers estimate that the blast had an explosive yield of between 200 and 500 hundred tonnes of TNT.

The city which has been reeling in economic hardships and the recent surge in coronavirus cases has now been laid to waste as blasts occurred at a port warehouses storing highly explosive material.

Lebanon has issued an arrest warrant for a customs official in connection with the blasts in Beirut which shook the city. AFP reported that a Lebanese judge has put out a warrant against customs director-general Badri Daher.

Lebanon has issued an arrest warrant for a customs official in connection with the blasts in Beirut which shook the city. AFP reported that a Lebanese judge has put out a warrant against customs director-general Badri Daher. Daher had been kept in detention for over ten days in the aftermath of the August 4 explosion which led to the deaths of 177 people, and injured 6,500 people. The city suffered major damage due to the blast. Explosives kept negligently Most widely, a stuck stock of explosive ammonium nitrate stored unsecured in a port side warehouse for years has been blamed for the attack, citing negligence and corruption. Also read: Lebanon Prime Minister Hassan Diab's government resigns over Beirut blasts The judicial source told AFP that the judge Fadi Sawan interrogated Daher for four hours before the warrant was issued. As per Lebanese law, one can be detained and questioned before they are formally arrested. The charges against Daher have not been revealed yet. Many more to be interrogated Ghassan Queidat, a public prosecutor had filed lawsuits against 25 suspects after the blasts occurred. Out of these, 19 are currently in custody. These include the city port’s general manager Hassan Koraytem, who will be interrogated on Tuesday. Additionally, former Lebanese customs director Shafic Merhi, port security head Mohammad Al-Awf and port warehouse manager Michel Nakhoul will also face the judge soon. Also read: NASA maps Beirut blast damage through satellite images The Beirut blast was so powerful that it was felt as far away as northern Israel and Cyprus (240 km away), and measured as a 4.5 local magnitude earthquake on the Richter scale by the Seismological Observatory in Jordan. Observers estimate that the blast had an explosive yield of between 200 and 500 hundred tonnes of TNT. The city which has been reeling in economic hardships and the recent surge in coronavirus cases has now been laid to waste as blasts occurred at a port warehouses storing highly explosive material.

As interrogations begin in Beirut blast probe, arrest warrant put out for customs official

Two decades of Maya Husseini's work to restore stained glass windows destroyed in the Lebanese civil war was lost in an instant in the seismic port explosion in Beirut.

A life’s work shattered: stained glass artist counts cost of Beirut blast

A massive explosion in Beirut has claimed several lives and caused massive destruction. Among those affected lies a significant number of Lebanon's vulnerable populations which are the Syrian refugees. Watch report,

A tale of survival from the deadly Beirut blast: Beirut explosion aftermath

A massive explosion in Beirut has claimed several lives and caused massive destruction. Among those affected lies a significant number of Lebanon's vulnerable populations which are the Syrian refugees. Watch report.

The United States called on Saturday for a transparent and credible investigation into the massive port blast in Beirut and said the country would only get financial support when Lebanese leaders commit to reforms.

The August 4 blast, which the authorities say was caused by more than 2,000 tonnes of ammonium nitrate that had been unsafely stored at the port for years, killed 178 people, injured 6,000 and left 300,000 homeless.

“We can never go back to an era in which anything goes at the port or the borders of Lebanon that had to contribute to this situation,” said David Hale, U.S. Under-Secretary of State for Political Affairs, after visiting the port.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/seismic-data-suggests-string-of-blasts-preceded-beirut-explosion-320805">Also watch:&nbsp;Seismic data suggests string of blasts preceded Beirut explosion</a>

He added that FBI agents would be arriving this weekend, at the invitation of Lebanon, to help investigate what led to the explosion.

The blast has fuelled anger at Lebanon’s ruling politicians who were already facing criticism over a financial meltdown that has sunk the currency, demolished the value of savings and left depositors unable to withdraw their money.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/lebanon-beirut-to-get-50000-tonnes-of-food-un-food-aid-world-news-320260">Also watch:&nbsp;Lebanon: Beirut to get 50,000 tonnes of food | U.N food aid</a>

“When we see Lebanese leaders committed to real change, change in word and deed, America and its international partners will respond to systemic reforms with sustained financial support,” Hale said.&nbsp;

“The popular demand for real change could not be clearer.”

President Michel Aoun has said a probe will look into whether the cause of the blast was negligence, an accident or “external interference”.

“They won’t do a thing in an investigation and the whole world knows that,” said painter Mohammed Khodr, as he helped repair a restaurant damaged in the blast.

The heavily armed, Iran-backed Lebanese group Hezbollah, which is listed as a terrorist organisation by the United States, said on Friday it would wait for results of the official Lebanese investigation into the blast.

The United States called on Saturday for a transparent and credible investigation into the massive port blast in Beirut and said the country would only get financial support when Lebanese leaders commit to reforms.

The United States called on Saturday for a transparent and credible investigation into the massive port blast in Beirut and said the country would only get financial support when Lebanese leaders commit to reforms. The August 4 blast, which the authorities say was caused by more than 2,000 tonnes of ammonium nitrate that had been unsafely stored at the port for years, killed 178 people, injured 6,000 and left 300,000 homeless. “We can never go back to an era in which anything goes at the port or the borders of Lebanon that had to contribute to this situation,” said David Hale, U.S. Under-Secretary of State for Political Affairs, after visiting the port. Also watch: Seismic data suggests string of blasts preceded Beirut explosion He added that FBI agents would be arriving this weekend, at the invitation of Lebanon, to help investigate what led to the explosion. The blast has fuelled anger at Lebanon’s ruling politicians who were already facing criticism over a financial meltdown that has sunk the currency, demolished the value of savings and left depositors unable to withdraw their money. Also watch: Lebanon: Beirut to get 50,000 tonnes of food | U.N food aid “When we see Lebanese leaders committed to real change, change in word and deed, America and its international partners will respond to systemic reforms with sustained financial support,” Hale said. “The popular demand for real change could not be clearer.” President Michel Aoun has said a probe will look into whether the cause of the blast was negligence, an accident or “external interference”. “They won’t do a thing in an investigation and the whole world knows that,” said painter Mohammed Khodr, as he helped repair a restaurant damaged in the blast. The heavily armed, Iran-backed Lebanese group Hezbollah, which is listed as a terrorist organisation by the United States, said on Friday it would wait for results of the official Lebanese investigation into the blast.

US calls for credible probe into 'overwhelming' Beirut blast

Lebanese President Michel Aoun, ally of Israel's arch-foe Hezbollah, seemed to leave the door open to eventual peace with the Jewish state, in an interview with French news channel BFMTV.

Lebanon has technically been at war with neighbouring Israel for decades, with tensions sporadically flaring in the border area in Lebanon's south, stronghold of the Shiite Muslim Hezbollah movement.

Asked in an interview on BFMTV on Saturday whether Lebanon would be prepared to make peace with Israel, Aoun responded: "That depends. We have problems with Israel, we have to resolve them first."

His statement came in the wake of an announcement Thursday that Israel would normalise relations with the United Arab Emirates, only the third Arab state to establish full diplomatic ties with Israel since its creation in 1948.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-protests-president-michel-aoun-urges-nation-to-unite-304030">Lebanon protests: President Michel Aoun urges nation to unite</a>

"It's an independent country," Aoun said of the UAE.

Aoun's Christian Free Patriotic Movement has for years been politically allied with Hezbollah, enabling them to dominate parliament and the government, which resigned on Monday amid outrage over negligence that led to the deadly explosion at Beirut's port that devastated the capital.

Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah said on Friday of the Israel-UAE agreement that "it's a betrayal of Jerusalem and the Palestinian people. It's a knife in the back."

A key point of contention between Lebanon and Israel concerns oil and gas resources in the eastern Mediterranean, where both countries have sought bids for exploration in their exclusive economic zones.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-warns-iran-over-interference-as-lebanon-president-claims-blast-damage-cost-15-billion-320049">Macron warns Iran over interference as Lebanon President claims blast damage cost $15 billion</a>

The maritime border between the countries is disputed.

Aoun's interview was aired in the aftermath of the Beirut blast on August 4 that killed 177 people and wounded at least 6,500 more, with many blaming systemic corruption and negligence of the entrenched political class for the disaster.

Many Lebanese have demanded the ouster of the entire ruling class, dominated by ex-warlords from the country's 1975-1990 civil war, including of Aoun.&nbsp;

Asked by the BFMTV journalist if he had thought of stepping down, Aoun said, "it's impossible, there would be a vacuum".

Lebanese President Michel Aoun, ally of Israel's arch-foe Hezbollah, seemed to leave the door open to eventual peace with the Jewish state, in an interview with French news channel BFMTV.

Lebanese President Michel Aoun, ally of Israel's arch-foe Hezbollah, seemed to leave the door open to eventual peace with the Jewish state, in an interview with French news channel BFMTV. Lebanon has technically been at war with neighbouring Israel for decades, with tensions sporadically flaring in the border area in Lebanon's south, stronghold of the Shiite Muslim Hezbollah movement. Asked in an interview on BFMTV on Saturday whether Lebanon would be prepared to make peace with Israel, Aoun responded: "That depends. We have problems with Israel, we have to resolve them first." His statement came in the wake of an announcement Thursday that Israel would normalise relations with the United Arab Emirates, only the third Arab state to establish full diplomatic ties with Israel since its creation in 1948. Also read | Lebanon protests: President Michel Aoun urges nation to unite "It's an independent country," Aoun said of the UAE. Aoun's Christian Free Patriotic Movement has for years been politically allied with Hezbollah, enabling them to dominate parliament and the government, which resigned on Monday amid outrage over negligence that led to the deadly explosion at Beirut's port that devastated the capital. Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah said on Friday of the Israel-UAE agreement that "it's a betrayal of Jerusalem and the Palestinian people. It's a knife in the back." A key point of contention between Lebanon and Israel concerns oil and gas resources in the eastern Mediterranean, where both countries have sought bids for exploration in their exclusive economic zones. Also read | Macron warns Iran over interference as Lebanon President claims blast damage cost $15 billion The maritime border between the countries is disputed. Aoun's interview was aired in the aftermath of the Beirut blast on August 4 that killed 177 people and wounded at least 6,500 more, with many blaming systemic corruption and negligence of the entrenched political class for the disaster. Many Lebanese have demanded the ouster of the entire ruling class, dominated by ex-warlords from the country's 1975-1990 civil war, including of Aoun. Asked by the BFMTV journalist if he had thought of stepping down, Aoun said, "it's impossible, there would be a vacuum".

Lebanon president hedges over eventual peace with Israel in interview

Take a look at the 29 seconds of the shock for Beirut residents at a shopping complex. CCTV captures the raw moments just before and ahead of the explosion which hit Beirut at 6.09 PM local time.

WION Exclusive: Visuals capturing Beirut explosion wreaking havoc on shopping complex

This is what it looks like a week after the explosion that devasted Beirut as repair work underway at a shopping complex.

WION Exclusive: Repair work continues at Beirut explosion-hit shopping complex

France has stepped up its probe into the massive Beirut port blast last week by handing it to investigating magistrates, prosecution sources said Friday, as it was confirmed two French citizens were among the 171 people killed.

The investigation has now been entrusted to two magistrates who can ultimately decide whether to press charges over the August 4 blast, a source in the office of the Paris prosecutor told AFP.

Another source, who asked not to be named, said two French citizens were now confirmed to have been killed in the explosion.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-blasts-protesters-in-beirut-want-france-to-intervene-in-lebanon-318922">After blasts, protesters in Beirut want France to intervene in Lebanon</a>

The death of one French victim,&nbsp;prominent Lebanon-based architect Jean-Marc Bonfils, had already been confirmed but the second victim has yet to be publicly identified.

French prosecutors on August 5 opened a probe into "involuntary injury" using their jurisdiction to investigate acts committed abroad when French people are among the victims.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/60-heritage-sites-risk-collapse-after-beirut-blast-320546" hreflang="en">60 heritage sites risk collapse after Beirut blast</a>

Investigators and police from France have already been at the scene in Beirut for several days to reconstruct the chain of events that led to the explosion.

The FBI will also join Lebanese investigators at the invitation of the Lebanese government, the US State Department said Thursday.

The explosion has been blamed on a vast stock of ammonium nitrate left for years in a warehouse at the port despite repeated warnings.

Lebanon's government under Prime Minister Hassan Diab resigned this week following days of demonstrations demanding accountability over the disaster.

Lebanese authorities have pledged a swift investigation and judicial officials said Wednesday the prosecution would question ministers and former ministers.

President Michel Aoun has rejected calls from world leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, and many Lebanese for an independent international investigation as a "waste of time." &nbsp;

France has stepped up its probe into the massive Beirut port blast last week by handing it to investigating magistrates, prosecution sources said Friday, as it was confirmed two French citizens were among the 171 people killed.

France has stepped up its probe into the massive Beirut port blast last week by handing it to investigating magistrates, prosecution sources said Friday, as it was confirmed two French citizens were among the 171 people killed. The investigation has now been entrusted to two magistrates who can ultimately decide whether to press charges over the August 4 blast, a source in the office of the Paris prosecutor told AFP. Another source, who asked not to be named, said two French citizens were now confirmed to have been killed in the explosion. Also read: After blasts, protesters in Beirut want France to intervene in Lebanon The death of one French victim, prominent Lebanon-based architect Jean-Marc Bonfils, had already been confirmed but the second victim has yet to be publicly identified. French prosecutors on August 5 opened a probe into "involuntary injury" using their jurisdiction to investigate acts committed abroad when French people are among the victims. Also see: 60 heritage sites risk collapse after Beirut blast Investigators and police from France have already been at the scene in Beirut for several days to reconstruct the chain of events that led to the explosion. The FBI will also join Lebanese investigators at the invitation of the Lebanese government, the US State Department said Thursday. The explosion has been blamed on a vast stock of ammonium nitrate left for years in a warehouse at the port despite repeated warnings. Lebanon's government under Prime Minister Hassan Diab resigned this week following days of demonstrations demanding accountability over the disaster. Lebanese authorities have pledged a swift investigation and judicial officials said Wednesday the prosecution would question ministers and former ministers. President Michel Aoun has rejected calls from world leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, and many Lebanese for an independent international investigation as a "waste of time."

Two French nationals confirmed dead in Beirut blast as France steps up probe

After ten days of the Beirut blast, an Israeli seismological and munitions expert has now said that a series of small 6 blasts preceded the major blast. Watch report.

Israeli expert makes a stunning claim: '6 small blasts preceded Beirut blast

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Russian official told CNN that there is a general sense of mistrust of Russia on the American side. The US officials, on the other hand, say the Russian vaccine is considered so half-baked in the United States that it hadn't even piqued their interest in a serious way before the rollout.

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The government will bear the expenses of the vaccine doses, but medical professionals who will give these to patients will be paid by insurers.

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The purchases by China according to the deal have been lagging and US President Donald Trump has sharpened his attack towards China at a time when the US is less than 100 days away from the presidential elections.

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WHO and partners have included nine experimental COVID-19 vaccines within an investment mechanism it is encouraging countries to join, known as the Covax facility.

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Russia offers to help US with COVID-19 vaccine. America says 'no' Russian official told CNN that there is a general sense of mistrust of Russia on the American side.

Russia offers to help US with COVID-19 vaccine. America says 'no' Russian official told CNN that there is a general sense of mistrust of Russia on the American side. The US officials, on the other hand, say the Russian vaccine is considered so half-baked in the United States that it hadn't even piqued their interest in a serious way before the rollout. US officials say coronavirus vaccine will be free for all citizens The government will bear the expenses of the vaccine doses, but medical professionals who will give these to patients will be paid by insurers. Amid troubled ties, US, China to resume talks on trade deal The purchases by China according to the deal have been lagging and US President Donald Trump has sharpened his attack towards China at a time when the US is less than 100 days away from the presidential elections. Russia's first Covid-19 vaccine not in advanced test stages: WHO WHO and partners have included nine experimental COVID-19 vaccines within an investment mechanism it is encouraging countries to join, known as the Covax facility. Gravitas: Trump strikes a deal: Israel, UAE to normalise relations ×

Morning news brief: Israel-UAE deal, US says no to Russia's COVID vaccine and more

60 heritage sites risk collapse after Beirut blast

The conflict and war are not new to Lebanon and every generation from the beginning of the civil war in 1975 as lived through conflicts. But the blast at the Beirut harbor on August 4 has changed something on a fundamental level n the city.

Lebanon's collective memory of conflict and the scars of Beirut blast

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The Trump administration has relaxed some rules for H-1B visas allowing visa holders to enter the United States if they are returning to the same jobs they had prior to the proclamation of the visa ban.

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Several Conservatives, including Donald Trump Jr and Sen Ted Cruz, retweeted misleading claims and footage that depicted Portland protesters as having burned a stack of Bible books.

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Satellite imagery suggests recent flooding in North Korea may have damaged pump houses connected to the country's main nuclear facility, a US-based think-tank said on Thursday.

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America makes exception to visa ban; H-1B holders can enter US on this condition The Trump administration has relaxed some rules for H-1B visas allowing visa holders to enter the United States if they are returning to the same jobs they had prior to the proclamation of the visa ban.

America makes exception to visa ban; H-1B holders can enter US on this condition The Trump administration has relaxed some rules for H-1B visas allowing visa holders to enter the United States if they are returning to the same jobs they had prior to the proclamation of the visa ban. A Bible burning, and some sensation: How a fake claim about Portland protests became a good story Several Conservatives, including Donald Trump Jr and Sen Ted Cruz, retweeted misleading claims and footage that depicted Portland protesters as having burned a stack of Bible books. North Korea nuclear reactor site threatened by recent flooding, US think-tank says Satellite imagery suggests recent flooding in North Korea may have damaged pump houses connected to the country's main nuclear facility, a US-based think-tank said on Thursday.

Morning news brief: H-1B visa, US elections, and more

Experts say a critical food shortage is imminent about a week after a massive blast devastated the port of Beirut

Lebanon: Beirut to get 50,000 tonnes of food | U.N food aid | World News

Lebanon has been witnessing a steady spike in the COVID-19 infections in the aftermath of last week's explosion in Beirut. The country recorded its highest single-day caseload by 309 new cases with 7 fatalities.

Beirut blast scales back social distancing: Lebanon's hospitals at risk of being overrun

The massive blast at Beirut port on August 4 caused more than $15 billion in damages, Lebanese President Michel Aoun said Wednesday.

Also read- <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beirut-death-toll-rises-to-171-as-lebanon-marks-one-week-since-deadly-blast-319819">Beirut: Death toll rises to 171 as Lebanon marks one week since deadly blast</a>

"Preliminary estimates of the losses suffered following the port explosion top 15 billion," he was quoted as telling Spain's King Felipe in a phone call, in a message on the presidency's Twitter account.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;French President Emmanuel Macron warned Iran against interference in Lebanon.&nbsp;

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/beirut-blast-places-where-ammonium-nitrate-is-being-stored-around-the-world-319744" hreflang="en">Beirut blast: Places where ammonium nitrate is being stored around the world</a>

During a telephone call to President Hassan Rouhani, the French president said "necessity for all the powers concerned... to avoid any outside interference and to support the putting in place of a government which can manage the emergency."&nbsp;

The death toll from the explosion has reached&nbsp;171, while&nbsp;more than 6,000 have been wounded and 300,000 people have been temporarily displaced&nbsp;from&nbsp;their homes.&nbsp;

It was caused by the ignition of 2,750 tons of ammonium nitrate that had been sitting at Beirut port for more than six years.

The explosion has fuelled popular outrage against the country's top political leaders and security agencies, and led to the resignation of the government on Monday.

An international donor conference on Sunday&nbsp;raised pledges worth nearly $298 million for immediate humanitarian relief, but foreign countries are demanding transparency over how the aid is used.

The massive blast at Beirut port on August 4 caused more than $15 billion in damages, Lebanese President Michel Aoun said Wednesday. Also read- Beirut: Death toll rises to 171 as Lebanon marks one week since deadly blast "Preliminary estimates of the losses suffered following the port explosion top 15 billion," he was quoted as telling Spain's King Felipe in a phone call, in a message on the presidency's Twitter account.

The massive blast at Beirut port on August 4 caused more than $15 billion in damages, Lebanese President Michel Aoun said Wednesday. Also read- Beirut: Death toll rises to 171 as Lebanon marks one week since deadly blast "Preliminary estimates of the losses suffered following the port explosion top 15 billion," he was quoted as telling Spain's King Felipe in a phone call, in a message on the presidency's Twitter account. Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron warned Iran against interference in Lebanon. Also see: Beirut blast: Places where ammonium nitrate is being stored around the world During a telephone call to President Hassan Rouhani, the French president said "necessity for all the powers concerned... to avoid any outside interference and to support the putting in place of a government which can manage the emergency." The death toll from the explosion has reached 171, while more than 6,000 have been wounded and 300,000 people have been temporarily displaced from their homes. It was caused by the ignition of 2,750 tons of ammonium nitrate that had been sitting at Beirut port for more than six years. The explosion has fuelled popular outrage against the country's top political leaders and security agencies, and led to the resignation of the government on Monday. An international donor conference on Sunday raised pledges worth nearly $298 million for immediate humanitarian relief, but foreign countries are demanding transparency over how the aid is used.

Macron warns Iran over interference as Lebanon President claims blast damage cost $15 billion

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<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/08/12/154191-kamala.JPG?itok=vrFnruw2" />

Harris, 55, the daughter of immigrants from India and Jamaica, made history in 2016 when she became the first Black woman elected to the US Senate from California.

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After President Putin announced that Russia had launched the world's first coronavirus vaccine, Germany's health ministry said that "there is no known data on the quality, efficacy and safety of the Russian vaccine."

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Facebook Inc said on Tuesday it removed 7 million posts in the second quarter for sharing false information about the novel coronavirus, including content that promoted fake preventative measures and exaggerated cures. 
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US Presidential candidate Joe Biden picks Indian-origin Senator Kamala Harris for US vice presidential candidate Harris, 55, the daughter of immigrants from India and Jamaica, made history in 2016 when she became the first Black woman elected to the US Senate from California.

US Presidential candidate Joe Biden picks Indian-origin Senator Kamala Harris for US vice presidential candidate Harris, 55, the daughter of immigrants from India and Jamaica, made history in 2016 when she became the first Black woman elected to the US Senate from California. No known data on quality, safety of Russian vaccine: German health ministry After President Putin announced that Russia had launched the world's first coronavirus vaccine, Germany's health ministry said that "there is no known data on the quality, efficacy and safety of the Russian vaccine." Facebook removed seven million posts in second quarter for false coronavirus information Facebook Inc said on Tuesday it removed 7 million posts in the second quarter for sharing false information about the novel coronavirus, including content that promoted fake preventative measures and exaggerated cures.

Morning news brief: Biden picks Kamala, Russian vaccine, Facebook and more

The wife of the Dutch Ambassador to Lebanon is among the victims of the blast in Beirut. Some foreigners had a brush with fate, but lived to tell the tale. WION gets you a ground report from Beirut.

Gravitas: WION reports from Beirut: Foreigners Recount The Blast

The death toll from Beirut's massive August 4 explosion has climbed to 171, a health ministry spokesman said on Tuesday.

The new figure, up from 160, came exactly one week since the mega-blast ravaged swathes of the Lebanese capital, wounding more than 6,000 and temporarily displacing 300,000 people from their homes.

The Beirut blast was so powerful that it was felt as far away as northern Israel and Cyprus (240 km away), and measured as a 4.5 local magnitude earthquake on the Richter scale by the Seismological Observatory in Jordan.&nbsp;

Observers estimate that the blast had an explosive yield of between 200 and 500 hundred tonnes of TNT.

The city which has been reeling in economic hardships and the recent surge in coronavirus cases has now been laid to waste as blasts occurred at port warehouses storing highly explosive material.

(With inputs from AFP)

The death toll from Beirut's massive August 4 explosion has climbed to 171, a health ministry spokesman said on Tuesday. The new figure, up from 160, came exactly one week since the mega-blast ravaged swathes of the Lebanese capital, wounding more than 6,000 and temporarily displacing 300,000 people from their homes.

The death toll from Beirut's massive August 4 explosion has climbed to 171, a health ministry spokesman said on Tuesday. The new figure, up from 160, came exactly one week since the mega-blast ravaged swathes of the Lebanese capital, wounding more than 6,000 and temporarily displacing 300,000 people from their homes. The Beirut blast was so powerful that it was felt as far away as northern Israel and Cyprus (240 km away), and measured as a 4.5 local magnitude earthquake on the Richter scale by the Seismological Observatory in Jordan. Observers estimate that the blast had an explosive yield of between 200 and 500 hundred tonnes of TNT. The city which has been reeling in economic hardships and the recent surge in coronavirus cases has now been laid to waste as blasts occurred at port warehouses storing highly explosive material. (With inputs from AFP)

Beirut blast: Death count in Lebanon's capital climbs to 171

The deadly Beirut explosion, that took nearly 165 lives, has caused severe damage in the city. To map the extent of this damage, NASA used satellite-derived data.

NASA's&nbsp;Advnaced Rapid Imaging and Analysis (ARIA) analysed the&nbsp;satellite-derived synthetic aperture radar data to map the likely extent of damage with the help of&nbsp;the Earth Observatory of Singapore.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanese-leaders-were-informed-of-risk-posed-by-explosives-at-port-in-july-reports-319592">Also read|&nbsp;Lebanese leaders were informed of risk posed by explosives at port in July: Reports</a>

"Synthetic aperture radar data from space shows ground surface changes from before and after a major event like an earthquake. In this case, it is being used to show the devastating result of an explosion," NASA report reads.

In the map, the dark red pixels represent the areas that have been severely damaged by the explosion, areas marked in orange have been moderately hit and the yellow-marked portions reveal the areas which have sustained somewhat less damage.&nbsp;Each colored pixel represents an area of 30 meters (33 yards).

NASA released the map on its official website. With the help of the map, the authorities can detect the areas where people might be severely affected and would require emergency assistance.

The explosion&nbsp;in Beirut happened on August 4 and affected more than 6,000 people with more than 20 people still missing.

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&nbsp;

The deadly Beirut explosion, that took nearly 165 lives, has caused severe damage in the city. To map the extent of this damage, NASA used satellite-derived data.

The deadly Beirut explosion, that took nearly 165 lives, has caused severe damage in the city. To map the extent of this damage, NASA used satellite-derived data. NASA's Advnaced Rapid Imaging and Analysis (ARIA) analysed the satellite-derived synthetic aperture radar data to map the likely extent of damage with the help of the Earth Observatory of Singapore. Also read| Lebanese leaders were informed of risk posed by explosives at port in July: Reports "Synthetic aperture radar data from space shows ground surface changes from before and after a major event like an earthquake. In this case, it is being used to show the devastating result of an explosion," NASA report reads. In the map, the dark red pixels represent the areas that have been severely damaged by the explosion, areas marked in orange have been moderately hit and the yellow-marked portions reveal the areas which have sustained somewhat less damage. Each colored pixel represents an area of 30 meters (33 yards). NASA released the map on its official website. With the help of the map, the authorities can detect the areas where people might be severely affected and would require emergency assistance. The explosion in Beirut happened on August 4 and affected more than 6,000 people with more than 20 people still missing. ×

NASA maps Beirut blast damage through satellite images

The death toll from Beirut's massive August 4 explosion has climbed to 171, a health ministry spokesman said.

The new figure, up from 160, came exactly one week since the mega-blast ravaged swathes of the Lebanese capital, wounding more than 6,000 and temporarily displacing 300,000 people from their homes.&nbsp;

It was caused by the ignition of 2,750 tons of ammonium nitrate that had been sitting at Beirut port for more than six years.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/beirut-blast-places-where-ammonium-nitrate-is-being-stored-around-the-world-319744" hreflang="en">Beirut blast: Places where ammonium nitrate is being stored around the world</a>

The explosion has fuelled popular outrage against the country's top political leaders and security agencies, and led to the resignation of the government on Monday.

Lebanon's president Michel Aoun, who accepted the&nbsp;resignation of&nbsp;Prime Minister Hassan Diab,&nbsp;&nbsp;had previously said explosive material was stored unsafely for years at the port. He later said the investigation would consider whether the cause was external interference as well as negligence or an accident.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sursock-palace-19th-century-landmark-destroyed-in-beirut-blasts-319389">Sursock Palace, 19th century landmark, destroyed in Beirut blasts</a>

In the wake of the disaster, documents have come to light that show that top Lebanese officials knew about the existence of the stockpile in the heart of Beirut near residential areas, and did nothing about it.

It still wasn't clear what caused the fire in a port warehouse that triggered the explosion of the chemicals, which created a shockwave so powerful it was felt as far away as the island of Cyprus more than 200 kilometers across the Mediterranean.

The explosion, which obliterated the capital's port, damaged thousands of apartments and offices in the capital and came on top of an unprecedented economic and financial crisis the country the country has been mired in since late last year, compounding the nation's collective distress.

An international donor conference on Sunday (August 9) raised pledges worth nearly 253 million euros ($298 million) for immediate humanitarian relief, but foreign countries are demanding transparency over how the aid is used

The death toll from Beirut's massive August 4 explosion has climbed to 171, a health ministry spokesman said. The new figure, up from 160, came exactly one week since the mega-blast ravaged swathes of the Lebanese capital, wounding more than 6,000 and temporarily displacing 300,000 people from their homes.

The death toll from Beirut's massive August 4 explosion has climbed to 171, a health ministry spokesman said. The new figure, up from 160, came exactly one week since the mega-blast ravaged swathes of the Lebanese capital, wounding more than 6,000 and temporarily displacing 300,000 people from their homes. It was caused by the ignition of 2,750 tons of ammonium nitrate that had been sitting at Beirut port for more than six years. Also see: Beirut blast: Places where ammonium nitrate is being stored around the world The explosion has fuelled popular outrage against the country's top political leaders and security agencies, and led to the resignation of the government on Monday. Lebanon's president Michel Aoun, who accepted the resignation of Prime Minister Hassan Diab, had previously said explosive material was stored unsafely for years at the port. He later said the investigation would consider whether the cause was external interference as well as negligence or an accident. Also see: Sursock Palace, 19th century landmark, destroyed in Beirut blasts In the wake of the disaster, documents have come to light that show that top Lebanese officials knew about the existence of the stockpile in the heart of Beirut near residential areas, and did nothing about it. It still wasn't clear what caused the fire in a port warehouse that triggered the explosion of the chemicals, which created a shockwave so powerful it was felt as far away as the island of Cyprus more than 200 kilometers across the Mediterranean. The explosion, which obliterated the capital's port, damaged thousands of apartments and offices in the capital and came on top of an unprecedented economic and financial crisis the country the country has been mired in since late last year, compounding the nation's collective distress. An international donor conference on Sunday (August 9) raised pledges worth nearly 253 million euros ($298 million) for immediate humanitarian relief, but foreign countries are demanding transparency over how the aid is used

Beirut: Death toll rises to 171 as Lebanon marks one week since deadly blast

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-briefly-evacuated-during-press-conference-after-shooting-outside-white-house-319589">Donald Trump briefly evacuated during press conference after shooting outside White House</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/07/07/148578-0001u152p-2.jpg?itok=C02pO9ku" />

The president was abruptly ushered out of the press event and black-clad secret service agents with automatic rifles rushed across the lawn north of the White House.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanese-leaders-were-informed-of-risk-posed-by-explosives-at-port-in-july-reports-319592">Lebanese leaders were informed of risk posed by explosives at port in July: Reports</a>

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Lebanon Prime Minister Hassan Diab, 61, on August 10 announced the resignation of his government after four cabinet ministers quit amid street protests in the aftermath of the Beirut blasts.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explosion-targets-convoy-carrying-us-military-equipment-near-iraq-kuwait-crossing-319587">Explosion targets convoy carrying US military equipment near Iraq-Kuwait crossing</a>

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It was not immediately clear if there were any US troops in the convoy or if anyone had been injured in the explosion, which went off just before 9 pm Baghdad time (1800 GMT).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-weighs-blocking-us-citizens-coming-home-if-coronavirus-infection-feared-319609">Trump weighs blocking US citizens coming home if coronavirus infection feared</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/07/22/150902-trump-ru.jpg?itok=w1IN7deF" />

The official said a draft regulation, which has not been finalized and could change, would give the government authorization to block individuals.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-chinese-beat-up-pakistanis-saudi-shuts-oil-tap-319579">Gravitas: Chinese beat up Pakistanis, Saudi shuts oil tap</a>

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Donald Trump briefly evacuated during press conference after shooting outside White House The president was abruptly ushered out of the press event and black-clad secret service agents with automatic rifles rushed across the lawn north of the White House.

Donald Trump briefly evacuated during press conference after shooting outside White House The president was abruptly ushered out of the press event and black-clad secret service agents with automatic rifles rushed across the lawn north of the White House. Lebanese leaders were informed of risk posed by explosives at port in July: Reports Lebanon Prime Minister Hassan Diab, 61, on August 10 announced the resignation of his government after four cabinet ministers quit amid street protests in the aftermath of the Beirut blasts. Explosion targets convoy carrying US military equipment near Iraq-Kuwait crossing It was not immediately clear if there were any US troops in the convoy or if anyone had been injured in the explosion, which went off just before 9 pm Baghdad time (1800 GMT). Trump weighs blocking US citizens coming home if coronavirus infection feared The official said a draft regulation, which has not been finalized and could change, would give the government authorization to block individuals. Gravitas: Chinese beat up Pakistanis, Saudi shuts oil tap ×

Morning news brief: Shooting outside White House, Beirut blasts were predicted and more

Beirut blast: Places where ammonium nitrate is being stored around the world

Lebanon's government has stepped down as Prime Minister Hassan Diab blamed endemic corruption for a devastating explosion last week that tore through the capital.

Beirut Blast: Political upheaval takes centrestage | Lebanon Cabinet resigns | WION

Its been four weeks since the deadly blast in Beirut. The chances of finding any survivors in the rubble are negligible. The anger on the streets is growing and families of those missing are blaming the government's efforts.

21 still missing days after Beirut blast: Families slam govt rescue efforts

Before he went missing on Aug. 4, Ghassan Hasrouty, an employee of Beirut's giant grain silos for 38 years, thought he was working in the safest place in the city.

The reinforced concrete walls and underground rooms were his shelter for many days during Lebanon's 1975-1990 civil war.

He used to tell his family that he was more worried for them than himself when he set out to work each morning.

At 1730 on Tuesday, Hasrouty called his wife, Ibtissam, saying he would be sleeping at the silos that night because a shipment of grains was arriving and he could not leave.

He told her to send him a blanket and pillow.

She has not heard from him since.

Tuesday's explosion in the port of Beirut, the biggest ever to hit the city, destroyed the silos, killed at least 158 people and injured more than 6,000. It left an estimated 300,000 Lebanese effectively homeless as shockwaves ripped miles inland.

The health ministry on Saturday said 21 people were still missing.

Officials have said the blast was caused by 2,750 tonnes of ammonium nitrate, a substance used in manufacturing fertilizers and bombs, which had been stored for six years in a nearby warehouse without adequate safety measures.

The government has promised to hold those responsible to account, but residents are seething with anger.

Hasrouty's family believe that he and six of his colleagues are somewhere under the silos and they are holding out hope that they are alive.

They say the rescue response has been too slow and disorganised and that whatever chance there was for finding them alive is being lost.

The family says that despite giving the authorities the exact location of where he was believed to have been at the time of the explosion, the rescue effort did not start until 40 hours later.

At their home in Beirut, the family has gathered every day, anxiously awaiting information.

"These people who are missing are not just numbers," says Elie, 35, Hasrouty's son.

"We need to highlight the mediocrity of management of this disaster, of this situation, how bad it is managed... not to repeat such a horrible disaster and horrible management."

Hasrouty, whose own father worked at the same silos for 40 years, was dedicated to his job, his family says. 
His daughter Tatiana, 19, flits between resignation and hope.

"We did not even get a chance to say goodbye," she says. "But we are still waiting for them... to all come back."

Before he went missing on Aug. 4, Ghassan Hasrouty, an employee of Beirut's giant grain silos for 38 years, thought he was working in the safest place in the city.

Before he went missing on Aug. 4, Ghassan Hasrouty, an employee of Beirut's giant grain silos for 38 years, thought he was working in the safest place in the city. The reinforced concrete walls and underground rooms were his shelter for many days during Lebanon's 1975-1990 civil war. He used to tell his family that he was more worried for them than himself when he set out to work each morning. At 1730 on Tuesday, Hasrouty called his wife, Ibtissam, saying he would be sleeping at the silos that night because a shipment of grains was arriving and he could not leave. He told her to send him a blanket and pillow. She has not heard from him since. Tuesday's explosion in the port of Beirut, the biggest ever to hit the city, destroyed the silos, killed at least 158 people and injured more than 6,000. It left an estimated 300,000 Lebanese effectively homeless as shockwaves ripped miles inland. The health ministry on Saturday said 21 people were still missing. Officials have said the blast was caused by 2,750 tonnes of ammonium nitrate, a substance used in manufacturing fertilizers and bombs, which had been stored for six years in a nearby warehouse without adequate safety measures. The government has promised to hold those responsible to account, but residents are seething with anger. Hasrouty's family believe that he and six of his colleagues are somewhere under the silos and they are holding out hope that they are alive. They say the rescue response has been too slow and disorganised and that whatever chance there was for finding them alive is being lost. The family says that despite giving the authorities the exact location of where he was believed to have been at the time of the explosion, the rescue effort did not start until 40 hours later. At their home in Beirut, the family has gathered every day, anxiously awaiting information. "These people who are missing are not just numbers," says Elie, 35, Hasrouty's son. "We need to highlight the mediocrity of management of this disaster, of this situation, how bad it is managed... not to repeat such a horrible disaster and horrible management." Hasrouty, whose own father worked at the same silos for 40 years, was dedicated to his job, his family says. His daughter Tatiana, 19, flits between resignation and hope. "We did not even get a chance to say goodbye," she says. "But we are still waiting for them... to all come back."

'They are not just numbers': Missing Beirut silo worker's family clings to hope

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