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{{Short description|Ammonium nitrate explosion in Lebanon}} | ||
{{Redirect|Beirut explosion|other explosions in Beirut|Beirut bombings (disambiguation)}} | |||
{{pp-vandalism|small=yes}}<noinclude> | |||
{{pp|small=yes}} | |||
{{User:RMCD bot/subject notice|1=2020 Beirut explosion|2=Talk:2020 Beirut explosions#Requested move 5 August 2020 }} | |||
{{Use British English|date=July 2022}} | |||
{{Use dmy dates|date=August |
{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2022}} | ||
{{Infobox event | {{Infobox event | ||
| title |
| title = 2020 Beirut explosion | ||
| image |
| image = Damages after 2020 Beirut explosions 1.jpg | ||
| caption = |
| caption = Aftermath of the explosion, with the destroyed grain silos to the left and the flooded ] to the right. | ||
| map = {{infobox mapframe|id=Q98073118|geomask=Q3820|zoom=13|frame-coordinates={{coord|qid=Q98073118}}}} | |||
| time = 18:08:18 ] (15:08:18 ])<br>(second explosion) | |||
| time = 18:08:18 ] | |||
| duration = <!-- {{duration|h=x|m=x|s=x}} or {{time interval|date1|date2|options}} --> | |||
| timezone = ] | |||
| date = {{start date|2020|08|04|df=y}} | |||
| duration = <!--{{duration|h=x|m=x|s=x}} or {{time interval|date1|date2|options}}--> | |||
| venue = ] | |||
| date = {{start date|2020|08|04|df=y}} | |||
| location = ], Lebanon | |||
| venue = ] | |||
| coordinates = {{coord|33.901|35.519|region:lb_type:event|display=inline,title}} | |||
| location = ], Lebanon | |||
| type = ] | |||
| coordinates = {{Coord|33|54|05|N|35|31|09|E|region:LB_type:event|display=inline,title}} | |||
| cause = | |||
| cause = ] | |||
| reported deaths = 135+ | |||
| type = ] | |||
| reported injuries = 5,000+ | |||
| reported |
| reported deaths = 218 | ||
| reported |
| reported injuries = 7,000+ | ||
| reported property damage = ]15+ billion | |||
| displaced = 300,000+ | |||
| displaced = ~300,000 | |||
}} | |||
{{OSM Location map | |||
| coord = {{coord|33.901|35.519}} | |||
| zoom = 13 | |||
| width = 300 | |||
| height = 260 | |||
| float = right | |||
| caption = | |||
| minimap = file | |||
| mini-file = Lebanon adm location map.svg | |||
| mini-width = 75<!-- All units for the mini-image are pixel units --> | |||
| mini-height = 86 <!-- height and width need to match the dimensions of the image file --> | |||
| minipog-x = 25 <!-- x and y co-ordinates are pixels numbered from a top-left origin --> | |||
| minipog-y = 42 <!-- They optionally place a red dot to show location of the main map --> | |||
| scalemark = 100 <!-- shifts the scalemark further to the left --> | |||
<!-- Parameters for 1st mark --> | |||
| label = Port of Beirut | |||
| mark = Legenda zabytek techniki.svg | |||
| mark-coord = {{coord|33.901|35.519}} | |||
| label-pos = left | |||
| mark-title = Port of Beirut | |||
| mark-image = File:Hafen von Beirut.jpg | |||
| mark-description = <!-- | --> | |||
}} | }} | ||
On 4 August 2020, a large amount of ] stored at the ] in the capital city of ] exploded, causing at least 218 deaths, 7,000 injuries, and ]15 billion in property damage, as well as leaving an estimated 300,000 people ]. A cargo of 2,750 tonnes of the substance (equivalent to around 1.1 ]) had been stored in a warehouse without proper safety measures for the previous six years after having been confiscated by Lebanese authorities from the abandoned ship {{MV|Rhosus}}. A fire in the same warehouse preceded the explosion. | |||
On the evening of 4 August 2020, at 18:08 ], an extremely powerful explosion occurred in the city of ], the capital of ].<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|title=Massive explosion shakes Lebanese capital, buildings near Beirut port reportedly damaged|url=https://www.haaretz.com/middle-east-news/massive-explosion-shakes-lebanese-capital-buildings-near-beirut-port-damaged-1.9046138|accessdate=4 August 2020|date=4 August 2020|last1=Khoury|first1=Jack|last2=Landou|first2=Noa|website=Haaretz|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805065959/https://www.haaretz.com/middle-east-news/massive-explosion-shakes-lebanese-capital-buildings-near-beirut-port-damaged-1.9046138|archive-date=5 August 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> The blast occurred following a fire at the ] and left more than 135 people dead, 80 more missing and more than 5,000 people injured.<ref name="guardian-count">{{Cite news|title=Lebanon: at least 78 killed as huge explosion rocks Beirut|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/aug/04/huge-explosion-beirut-lebanon-shatters-windows-rocks-buildings|last=Chulov|first=Martin|date=4 August 2020|access-date=4 August 2020|work=]|last2=Safi|first2=Michael|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804160549/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/aug/04/huge-explosion-beirut-lebanon-shatters-windows-rocks-buildings|archive-date=4 August 2020|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="guardian.live.2020.08.04">{{Cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2020/aug/04/beirut-explosion-huge-blast-port-lebanon-capital|title=Beirut explosion: dead and wounded among 'hundreds of casualties', says Lebanon Red Cross{{Snd}} live updates|first1=Oliver|last1=Holmes|first2=Peter|last2=Beaumont|first3=Michael|last3=Safi|first4=Martin|last4=Chulov|date=4 August 2020|website=The Guardian|accessdate=4 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804201541/https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2020/aug/04/beirut-explosion-huge-blast-port-lebanon-capital|archive-date=4 August 2020|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="jazeera.live.2020.08.04">{{Cite web|last=Gadzo|first=Mersiha|title=Dozens killed, thousands wounded in Beirut blast: Live updates|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/huge-explosion-rocks-lebanon-capital-beirut-live-updates-200804163620414.html|access-date=4 August 2020|date=4 August 2020|website=Al Jazeera|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804210957/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/huge-explosion-rocks-lebanon-capital-beirut-live-updates-200804163620414.html|archive-date=4 August 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> Beirut Governor ] estimated that up to 300,000 people were left homeless by the explosions.<ref name="AJE 05-08" /> | |||
The blast was so powerful that it was felt throughout Lebanon. It was also felt in Turkey, Syria, Palestine, Jordan, Israel, and parts of Europe, and was heard in Cyprus, more than {{cvt|240|km|mi}} away. It was detected by the ] as a seismic event of ] 3.3 and is considered one of the ]. It was powerful enough to affect Earth's ].<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Kundu |first1=Bhaskar |last2=Senapati |first2=Batakrushna |last3=Matsushita |first3=Ai |last4=Heki |first4=Kosuke |date=2021-02-02 |title=Atmospheric wave energy of the 2020 August 4 explosion in Beirut, Lebanon, from ionospheric disturbances |journal=Scientific Reports |language=en |volume=11 |issue=1 |pages=2793 |doi=10.1038/s41598-021-82355-5 |pmid=33531554 |bibcode=2021NatSR..11.2793K |issn=2045-2322|doi-access=free |pmc=7854621 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=McRae |first=Mike |date=2021-03-19 |title=The Tragic Beirut Explosion Was So Violent, It Disturbed Earth's Ionosphere |url=https://www.sciencealert.com/last-year-s-blast-in-lebanon-was-so-violent-it-literally-shook-the-roof-of-the-world |access-date=2023-09-29 |website=ScienceAlert |language=en-US |archive-date=5 December 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231205052028/https://www.sciencealert.com/last-year-s-blast-in-lebanon-was-so-violent-it-literally-shook-the-roof-of-the-world |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Ozdemir |first=Derya |date=2021-03-18 |title=The Beirut Explosion's Atmospheric Wave Shook the Ionosphere |url=https://interestingengineering.com/science/the-beirut-explosions-atmospheric-wave-shook-the-ionosphere |access-date=2023-09-29 |website=interestingengineering.com |language=en-US |archive-date=20 December 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231220175637/https://interestingengineering.com/science/the-beirut-explosions-atmospheric-wave-shook-the-ionosphere |url-status=live }}</ref> The blast was also the largest single-fired ammonium nitrate explosion in history.<ref name=":5">{{Cite journal |last1=Kim |first1=Keehoon |last2=Pasyanos |first2=Michael E. |date=2022-12-16 |title=Yield Estimation of the August 2020 Beirut Explosion by Using Physics-Based Propagation Simulations of Regional Infrasound |journal=Geophysical Research Letters |language=en |volume=49 |issue=23 |doi=10.1029/2022GL101118 |issn=0094-8276|doi-access=free |bibcode=2022GeoRL..4901118K }}</ref> | |||
The main explosion was linked to approximately {{convert|2,750|t|ST|abbr=off|sigfig=3}} of ] that had been confiscated by the government from ] and stored in the port without proper safety measures for the previous six years.{{r|jazeera.live.2020.08.04}} Despite inefficient transmission of the shock waves into the ground, the explosion was detected as a seismic event of magnitude 3.3 by the ].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://edition.cnn.com/middleeast/live-news/lebanon-beirut-explosion-live-updates-dle-intl/h_da222628bccbcd0736247682b65a8675 |title=Beirut explosion rocks Lebanon's capital city |website=CNN}}</ref> By the following day, 5 August, the fire was largely extinguished. | |||
Following the explosion, there were suspicions regarding ]'s involvement due to allegations that the explosion occurred at a site storing Hezbollah's weapons. Hezbollah denied these allegations but has been actively involved in demonstrations against the investigation into the explosion.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gavlak |first=Dale |date=2021-10-18 |title=Hezbollah Rattled by Beirut Port Blast Probe |url=https://www.voanews.com/a/hezbollah-rattled-by-port-blast-probe/6274313.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231218144602/https://www.voanews.com/a/hezbollah-rattled-by-port-blast-probe/6274313.html |archive-date=18 December 2023 |access-date=2023-12-18 |website=Voice of America |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Qiblawi |first=Tamara |date=2021-09-23 |title=Hezbollah threatened top judge probing Beirut port blast, source says |url=https://www.cnn.com/2021/09/23/middleeast/hezbollah-beirut-blast-probe-threat-intl/index.html |access-date=2023-12-18 |website=CNN |language=en |archive-date=11 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211011073940/https://www.cnn.com/2021/09/23/middleeast/hezbollah-beirut-blast-probe-threat-intl/index.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Daou |first=Marc |date=2021-10-19 |title=Hezbollah's campaign against Beirut blast judge paralyses Lebanon's government |url=https://www.france24.com/en/middle-east/20211019-hezbollah-s-campaign-against-beirut-blast-judge-paralyses-lebanon-s-government |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231218144659/https://www.france24.com/en/middle-east/20211019-hezbollah-s-campaign-against-beirut-blast-judge-paralyses-lebanon-s-government |archive-date=18 December 2023 |access-date=2023-12-18 |website=France 24 |language=en}}</ref> | |||
The ] declared a two-week ] in response to the disaster. In its aftermath, protests erupted across Lebanon against the government for their failure to prevent the catastrophe, joining a ] which had been taking place across the country since 2019. On 10 August 2020, ] ] and the ] resigned. | |||
The adjacent grain silos were badly damaged. In July and August 2022, part of the silos collapsed following a weeks-long fire in the remaining grain. | |||
==Background== | ==Background== | ||
{{image frame | |||
The ] before the explosions, with the ] having defaulted on debt, the ] plunging and a poverty rate that had risen to over 50%.<ref name="balkiz" /> In addition, the ] had overwhelmed many hospitals in the country, with multiple reporting shortages of medical supplies, as they were close to being overrun with COVID patients, and many hospitals were unable to pay staff due to the financial crisis.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://abcnews.go.com/Health/wireStory/crisis-hits-lebanons-hospitals-best-mideast-71913336 |title=Crisis hits Lebanon's hospitals, among the best in Mideast |author=Sarah El Deeb |date=2020-07-05 |df=dmy |website=ABC News |language=en |access-date=5 August 2020 }}</ref> The morning before the explosion, the head of the main public hospital{{which}} treating COVID patients warned that the hospital was approaching full capacity.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Qiblawi|first=Tamara|date=5 August 2020|title=Beirut will never be the same again|url=https://www.cnn.com/2020/08/05/middleeast/beirut-qiblawi-analysis-intl/index.html|url-status=live|archive-url=|archive-date=|access-date=2020-08-05|website=CNN}}</ref> | |||
| caption = The explosion occurred behind the grain silos in this view. | |||
| content = | |||
{{superimpose | |||
| base = North of Beirut Port.jpg | |||
| base_width = 350px | |||
| float = Locator Dot2.gif | |||
| float_width = 15px | |||
| float_caption = Explosion site | |||
| x = 163 | |||
| y = 20 | |||
}} | |||
}} | |||
The ] was in a ] before the explosion, with the ] having ] on debt, the ] plunging, and a poverty rate that had risen past 50%.<ref name="balkiz" /> In addition, the ] had overwhelmed many of the country's hospitals, several of which were already short of medical supplies and unable to pay staff due to the financial crisis.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://abcnews.go.com/Health/wireStory/crisis-hits-lebanons-hospitals-best-mideast-71913336 |title=Crisis hits Lebanon's hospitals, among the best in Mideast |author=Sarah El Deeb |date=5 July 2020 |website=ABC News |access-date=5 August 2020 |archive-date=1 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200801035130/https://abcnews.go.com/Health/wireStory/crisis-hits-lebanons-hospitals-best-mideast-71913336 |url-status=live}}</ref> The morning before the explosion, the head of the ], which served as the main COVID-19 medical facility in Lebanon, warned that it was approaching full capacity.<ref>{{cite news |last=Qiblawi |first=Tamara |date=5 August 2020 |title=Beirut will never be the same again |url=https://www.cnn.com/2020/08/05/middleeast/beirut-qiblawi-analysis-intl/index.html |access-date=5 August 2020 |publisher=CNN |archive-date=4 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404034944/https://www.cnn.com/2020/08/05/middleeast/beirut-qiblawi-analysis-intl/index.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Trew |first1=Bel |title='The worst thing I've ever seen': Doctors treat wounded in rubble of destroyed hospitals after Beirut explosions |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/middle-east/beirut-explosion-lebanon-hospitals-where-death-toll-what-happened-a9654376.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805092405/https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/middle-east/beirut-explosion-lebanon-hospitals-where-death-toll-what-happened-a9654376.html |archive-date=5 August 2020 |url-access=limited |url-status=live |website=The Independent |access-date=6 August 2020 |date=5 August 2020}}</ref> | |||
The ] serves as the main maritime entry point into Lebanon and a vital piece of infrastructure |
The government-owned ] serves as the main maritime entry point into Lebanon and a vital piece of infrastructure for the importation of scarce goods.<ref name="azhari">{{cite web |last1=Azhari |first1=Timour |title=Hundreds wounded as huge blast rips through Lebanon's Beirut |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/large-explosion-rocks-lebanon-capital-beirut-200804153400078.html |website=Al Jazeera|access-date=4 August 2020|date=4 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804163013/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/large-explosion-rocks-lebanon-capital-beirut-200804153400078.html|archive-date=4 August 2020|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="grzeszczak">{{cite web |last1=Grzeszczak |first1=Jocelyn |title=What is the Port of Beirut? Everything We Know About the Site Following Deadly Explosion |url=https://www.newsweek.com/what-port-beirut-everything-we-know-about-site-following-deadly-explosion-1522830 |website=Newsweek |access-date=5 August 2020 |date=4 August 2020 |archive-date=5 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805210708/https://www.newsweek.com/what-port-beirut-everything-we-know-about-site-following-deadly-explosion-1522830 |url-status=live }}</ref> The ] is a part of the port.<ref name="grzeszczak" /> The port included four basins, sixteen ], twelve warehouses,<ref name="grzeszczak" /> a large container terminal,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.portdebeyrouth.com/index.php/en/|title=Home|website=www.portdebeyrouth.com|access-date=6 August 2020|archive-date=9 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200809042811/http://www.portdebeyrouth.com/index.php/en/|url-status=live}}</ref> and a ] with a total capacity of 120,000 tonnes that served as a strategic reserve of cereals for the country. The grain elevator was built in the 1960s as part of an expansion plan advanced by Palestinian banker ].<ref name="National20">{{cite news|last=Oweis|first=Khaled Yacoub|url=https://www.thenational.ae/world/beirut-explosion-legendary-palestinian-banker-envisaged-silos-that-shielded-his-adopted-city-from-more-destruction-1.1061359|title=Beirut explosion: Legendary Palestinian banker envisaged silos that shielded his adopted city from more destruction|date=10 August 2020|work=]|access-date=6 September 2020|archive-date=4 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200904225941/https://www.thenational.ae/world/beirut-explosion-legendary-palestinian-banker-envisaged-silos-that-shielded-his-adopted-city-from-more-destruction-1.1061359|url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
===MV ''Rhosus''=== | ===MV ''Rhosus''=== | ||
{{Main|MV Rhosus}} | {{Main|MV Rhosus}} | ||
{{overlay | |||
|image=Beirutnorth.jpg | |||
|width=320 | |||
|float=left | |||
|height=214 | |||
|overlay1=The explosion occurred behind the ] in this view. | |||
|overlay1top=10 | |||
|overlay1left=150 | |||
|overlay1tip=Explosion site | |||
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}} | |||
On {{dts|2013.09.23|format=dmy}}, the Russian-owned ]n-] cargo ship {{MV|Rhosus}} set sail from ], ], to ], ], carrying 2,750 tonnes of ].<ref name="rhosus.shiparrested">{{cite journal |url=https://shiparrested.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/The-Arrest-News-11th-issue.pdf#page=3 |title=m/v Rhosus{{Snd}} Arrest and Personal Freedom of the Crew |date=October 2015 |number=11 |journal=The Arrest News |accessdate=5 August 2020 |first1=Charbel |last1=Dagher |first2=Christine |last2=Maksoud |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805004609/https://shiparrested.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/The-Arrest-News-11th-issue.pdf |archive-date=5 August 2020}}</ref><ref name="rhosus.jazeera" /> In October, it was forced to port in Beirut with engine problems.<ref name="rhosus.tv2">{{Cite news|last=Jørgensen|first=Lars Bach|date=5 August 2020|title=Ekspert forklarer, hvad der sandsynligvis skete i Beirut|language=da|trans-title=Expert explains what probably happened in Beirut|work=TV 2|url=https://nyheder.tv2.dk/udland/2020-08-05-ekspert-forklarer-hvad-der-sandsynligvis-skete-i-beirut|url-status=live|accessdate=5 August 2020|quote=The large amount of potentially dangerous fertilizer has been there since 2014, when the Moldavian ship Rhosus had to port due to engine problems.}}</ref>{{r|rhosus.fleetmon}} After inspection by ], the ''Rhosus'' was found unseaworthy, and it was forbidden to set sail.{{r|rhosus.fleetmon}}{{r|rhosus.tv2}} Eight Ukrainians and one Russian were aboard,{{efn|One source stated that the crew consisted of eight Ukrainians and two Russians.<ref name="siberiantimes">{{Cite web|url=https://siberiantimes.com/other/others/news/first-pictures-emerge-of-a-russian-businessman-whose-ammonium-nitrate-cargo-detonated-in-the-port-of-beirut/|title=First pictures emerge of a Russian man whose ammonium nitrate cargo detonated in the port of Beirut|website=siberiantimes.com|accessdate=6 August 2020}}</ref>}} and with the help of a Ukrainian consul, five Ukrainians were repatriated, leaving four crew members to take care of the ship.{{r|rhosus.newsmaker}}{{efn|One source stated that four crew members remained, while another stated that a "Master and four crew members" were left behind.{{r|rhosus.newsmaker}}{{r|rhosus.shiparrested}}}} | |||
On 27 September 2013, the Moldovan-] cargo ship {{MV|Rhosus}} set sail from ], ], to ], Mozambique, carrying {{convert|2,750|t|ST|lk=on|abbr=off|sigfig=3}} of ].<ref name="rhosus.shiparrested">{{cite journal |url=https://shiparrested.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/The-Arrest-News-11th-issue.pdf#page=3 |title=m/v Rhosus – Arrest and Personal Freedom of the Crew |date=October 2015 |number=11 |journal=The Arrest News |access-date=5 August 2020 |first1=Charbel |last1=Dagher |first2=Christine |last2=Maksoud |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805004609/https://shiparrested.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/The-Arrest-News-11th-issue.pdf |archive-date=5 August 2020}}</ref><ref name="rhosus.jazeera" /><ref name="rhosus.bbc">{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-53683082|title=How ship's deadly cargo ended up at Beirut port|date=6 August 2020|work=]|access-date=7 August 2020|archive-date=4 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204075050/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-53683082|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="rhosus.euronews">{{cite web|url=https://www.euronews.com/2020/08/06/how-did-2-750-tonnes-of-ammonium-nitrate-make-it-to-the-port-of-beirut-thecube|title=How did so much ammonium nitrate make it to Port of Beirut? | #TheCube|first=Matthew|last=Holroyd|date=6 August 2020|website=euronews|access-date=7 August 2020|archive-date=4 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204074944/https://www.euronews.com/2020/08/06/how-did-2-750-tonnes-of-ammonium-nitrate-make-it-to-the-port-of-beirut-thecube|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/live/world-middle-east-53690582?pinned_post_locator=urn:asset:b181045d-1090-48c3-b6d2-c5d2db9c0bfa |title=Russian captain recalls journey that led to deadly cargo being impounded |work=BBC News |date=7 August 2020 |access-date=8 August 2020 |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204075029/https://www.bbc.com/news/live/world-middle-east-53690582?pinned_post_locator=urn%3Aasset%3Ab181045d-1090-48c3-b6d2-c5d2db9c0bfa |url-status=live }}</ref> ''Rhosus'' was owned by a company based in Panama but was regarded by the captain as under the '']'' ownership of Russian businessman ].<ref>{{cite news |first1=Maria |last1=Vasilyeva |first2=Lisa |last2=Barrington |first3=Jonathan |last3=Saul |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-lebanon-security-blast-ship-insight/who-owned-the-chemicals-that-blew-up-beirut-no-one-will-say-idUSKCN2571CP |title=Who owned the chemicals that blew up Beirut? No one will say |publisher=Reuters |date=11 August 2020 |access-date=15 August 2020 |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204075007/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-lebanon-security-blast-ship-insight/who-owned-the-chemicals-that-blew-up-beirut-no-one-will-say-idUSKCN2571CP |url-status=live }}</ref> The shipment had been ordered by an African explosives manufacturing company for mining in Mozambique.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Polglase |first1=Katie |title=Ammonium nitrate that exploded in Beirut bought for mining, Mozambican firm says |url=https://edition.cnn.com/2020/08/07/middleeast/beirut-lebanon-ammonium-nitrate-explosion/index.html |agency=CNN |date=7 August 2020 |access-date=4 February 2021 |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073613/https://edition.cnn.com/2020/08/07/middleeast/beirut-lebanon-ammonium-nitrate-explosion/index.html |url-status=live }}</ref> However, reporting by '']'' has found that it was not Grechushkin who owned ''Rhosus'', but rather Cypriot businessman ], who maintained a relationship with the bank used by ] in Lebanon.<ref>{{Cite news|author1=Fritz Schaap |author2=Christoph Reuter |author3=Maximilian Popp |title=Shipowner Linked to Hezbollah's Bank: Questions Swirl around the Cargo that Destroyed Beirut |url=https://www.spiegel.de/international/world/ties-to-hezbollah-questions-swirl-around-the-cargo-that-destroyed-beirut-a-668b79f4-c4f1-49da-a764-172cc17f162b|access-date=29 August 2020|newspaper=Der Spiegel|date=21 August 2020|archive-date=4 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073629/https://www.spiegel.de/consent-a-?targetUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.spiegel.de%2Finternational%2Fworld%2Fties-to-hezbollah-questions-swirl-around-the-cargo-that-destroyed-beirut-a-668b79f4-c4f1-49da-a764-172cc17f162b|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
The owner of the ''Rhosus'', the Cyprus-based Russian businessman Igor Grechushkin, went bankrupt,{{efn|The captain wrote that Grechushkin had told him that he had gone bankrupt, but noted that he did not believe Grechushkin, and did not consider that important, as what was relevant was that Grechushkin had abandoned the crew, the cargo, and the ship.{{r|siberiantimes}}}} and after the charterers lost interest in the cargo, the owner abandoned the ship.<ref name="rhosus.newsmaker">{{cite news|url=https://newsmaker.md/ro/presa-substanta-care-a-provocat-explozia-din-beirut-a-fost-adusa-de-nava-unui-rus-sub-pavilionul-r-moldova|title=Substanța care a provocat explozia din Beirut a fost adusă de nava unui rus sub pavilionul R. Moldova|first=Stela|last=Untila|newspaper=NewsMaker|date=5 August 2020|accessdate=5 August 2020|language=ro}}</ref> The ''Rhosus'' then quickly ran out of provisions, while the crew were unable to disembark due to immigration restrictions.{{r|rhosus.shiparrested}} Creditors also obtained three arrest warrants{{efn|A ship may be "arrested" and detained in port by a court order in support of a ] claim by creditors against the vessel.<ref>{{cite news|date=3 April 2020|title=Points to Consider if your Ship is Arrested|first=Eugene|last=Cheng|work=West of England|url=https://www.westpandi.com/publications/news/points-to-consider-if-your-ship-is-arrested/#:~:text=An%20arrest%20is%20a%20court,of%20arrest%20and%20an%20affidavit.|accessdate=5 August 2020}}</ref>}} against the ship.{{r|rhosus.newsmaker}}{{r|rhosus.shiparrested}} Lawyers argued for the crew's repatriation on compassionate grounds, due to the danger posed by the cargo still aboard the ship, and an Urgent Matters judge in Beirut allowed them to return home after having been stuck aboard the ship for about a year.{{r|rhosus.shiparrested}}{{r|rhosus.newsmaker}} By order of the judge, the dangerous cargo was brought ashore in 2014 and placed in Hangar 12 at the port, <ref name="BBC-53659282" /> where it remained for the next six years.{{r|rhosus.shiparrested}}<ref name="rhosus.jazeera">{{cite news|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/officials-knew-danger-beirut-port-years-200805032416684.html|title=Beirut blast: Tracing the explosives that tore the capital apart|first=Timour|last=Azhari|journal=]|date=5 August 2020|accessdate=5 August 2020}}</ref><ref name="rhosus.fleetmon">*{{cite web |last1=Voytenko |first1=Mikhail |title=Crew kept hostages on a floating bomb{{Snd}} m/v Rhosus, Beirut |url=https://www.fleetmon.com/maritime-news/2014/4194/crew-kept-hostages-floating-bomb-mv-rhosus-beirut/ |website=fleetmon |date=23 July 2014 |access-date=4 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804213142/https://www.fleetmon.com/maritime-news/2014/4194/crew-kept-hostages-floating-bomb-mv-rhosus-beirut/ |archive-date=4 August 2020 |url-status=live}} | |||
*{{cite web |title=Rhosus |url=https://www.fleetmon.com/vessels/rhosus_8630344_46589/ |website=Fleetmon |accessdate=4 August 2020}}</ref><ref name="Reuters Toll Expected" /> | |||
On 21 November 2013, the ship made port in Beirut.{{r|rhosus.fleetmon}}{{r|rhosus.bbc}}{{r|rhosus.euronews}} Some sources said it was forced to port due to mechanical issues and possibly engine problems,<ref name="rhosus.tv2">{{Cite news|last=Jørgensen|first=Lars Bach|date=5 August 2020|title=Ekspert forklarer, hvad der sandsynligvis skete i Beirut|language=da|trans-title=Expert explains what probably happened in Beirut|work=TV 2|url=https://nyheder.tv2.dk/udland/2020-08-05-ekspert-forklarer-hvad-der-sandsynligvis-skete-i-beirut|access-date=5 August 2020|quote=The large amount of potentially dangerous fertilizer has been there since 2014, when the Moldavian ship Rhosus had to port due to engine problems.|archive-date=6 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806010057/https://nyheder.tv2.dk/udland/2020-08-05-ekspert-forklarer-hvad-der-sandsynligvis-skete-i-beirut|url-status=live}}</ref>{{r|rhosus.fleetmon}} while other sources claimed the owner did not have sufficient funds to pay tolls for the ] and attempted to take on a shipment of heavy machinery in Beirut.<ref name="NOSdeWaarschuwingenInBeirutWarenEr">{{cite news |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |date=6 August 2020 |title=De waarschuwingen in Beiroet waren er, maar de gedoemde lading bleef liggen |trans-title=Warnings in Beirut were there, but the doomed shipment was left in storage |url=https://nos.nl/artikel/2343120-de-waarschuwingen-in-beiroet-waren-er-maar-de-gedoemde-lading-bleef-liggen.html |language=NL |work=NOS |access-date=6 August 2020 |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073611/https://nos.nl/collectie/13846/artikel/2343120-de-waarschuwingen-in-beiroet-waren-er-maar-de-gedoemde-lading-bleef-liggen |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="washingtonpost">{{Cite news |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/captain-astonished-that-his-ship-delivered-beirut-explosive/2020/08/06/2ad8f824-d825-11ea-a788-2ce86ce81129_story.html |title=Captain astonished that his ship delivered Beirut explosive |author=Daria Litvinova |newspaper=Washington Post |date=6 August 2020 |access-date=7 August 2020 |archive-date=7 August 2020 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20200807023640/https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/captain-astonished-that-his-ship-delivered-beirut-explosive/2020/08/06/2ad8f824-d825-11ea-a788-2ce86ce81129_story.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The heavy machinery was stacked on top of the doors to the cargo space containing the ammonium nitrate, causing the doors to buckle, which damaged the ship.<ref name="reuters.disaster">{{cite news |last1=Vasilyeva |first1=Maria |title=Beirut's accidental cargo: how an unscheduled port visit led to disaster |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-lebanon-security-blast-ship/beiruts-accidental-cargo-how-an-unscheduled-port-visit-led-to-disaster-idUSKCN25225M |access-date=7 August 2020 |work=Reuters |date=6 August 2020 |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073558/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-lebanon-security-blast-ship/beiruts-accidental-cargo-how-an-unscheduled-port-visit-led-to-disaster-idUSKCN25225M |url-status=live }}</ref> After inspection by ], ''Rhosus'' was deemed unseaworthy, and was forbidden to set sail.{{r|rhosus.fleetmon}}{{r|rhosus.tv2}} Eight Ukrainians and one or two Russians were aboard,<ref>{{cite news |url=https://siberiantimes.com/other/others/news/first-pictures-emerge-of-a-russian-businessman-whose-ammonium-nitrate-cargo-detonated-in-the-port-of-beirut |title=First pictures emerge of a Russian man whose ammonium nitrate cargo detonated in the port of Beirut |work=The Siberian Times |date=5 August 2020 |access-date=6 August 2020 |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806110415/https://siberiantimes.com/other/others/news/first-pictures-emerge-of-a-russian-businessman-whose-ammonium-nitrate-cargo-detonated-in-the-port-of-beirut/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and with the help of the Ukrainian ], five Ukrainians were ], leaving four crew members to care for the ship.{{r|rhosus.newsmaker}}<ref name="siberiantimes">{{cite web|title=First pictures emerge of a Russian man whose ammonium nitrate cargo detonated in the port of Beirut|url=https://siberiantimes.com/other/others/news/first-pictures-emerge-of-a-russian-businessman-whose-ammonium-nitrate-cargo-detonated-in-the-port-of-beirut/|access-date=6 August 2020|website=siberiantimes.com|archive-date=4 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073608/https://siberiantimes.com/other/others/news/first-pictures-emerge-of-a-russian-businessman-whose-ammonium-nitrate-cargo-detonated-in-the-port-of-beirut/|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
Various customs officials had sent letters to judges requesting a resolution to the issue of the confiscated cargo, proposing that the ammonium nitrate either be exported, given to the ], or sold to the private Lebanese Explosives Company.{{efn|Ammonium nitrate has a ] globally, and thus has been gradually phased out due to concerns for misuse and safety.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.dallasnews.com/news/news/2013/10/05/ammonium-nitrate-sold-by-ton-as-u.s.-regulation-is-stymied |title=Ammonium nitrate sold by ton as U.S. regulation is stymied |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180228041244/https://www.dallasnews.com/news/news/2013/10/05/ammonium-nitrate-sold-by-ton-as-u.s.-regulation-is-stymied |archivedate=28 February 2018 |publisher=] |accessdate=5 August 2020}}</ref>}}{{r|rhosus.jazeera}} Letters had been sent on 27 June and {{dts|2014.12.05|format=dmy}}, {{dts|2015.05.06|format=dmy}}, 20 May and {{dts|2016.10.13|format=dmy}}, and {{dts|2017.10.27|format=dmy}}.{{r|rhosus.jazeera}} One of the letters sent in 2016 noted that judges had not replied to previous requests, and "pleaded":{{r|rhosus.jazeera}} | |||
{{multiple image | |||
| direction = vertical | |||
| width = 450 | |||
| image1 = MV Rhosus Beirut.jpg | |||
| alt1 = | |||
| caption1 = The port of Beirut in 2017, with ''Rhosus'' moored on the right. ]s ''Abou Karim{{nbsp}}I'' and ''Abou Karim{{nbsp}}III'', both severely damaged in the explosions, are in the center, the latter largely obscuring the former. | |||
| image2 = Port of Beirut 15-8-2020.jpg | |||
| alt2 = | |||
| caption2 = The Port of Beirut eleven days after the disaster. The large ship on the right is the French ] ], which arrived in the port on 13 August to provide food, construction materials, medical supplies, and personnel.<ref name="beirut.rfi">{{cite web|url=https://www.rfi.fr/en/international/20200814-french-defence-minister-visits-beirut-to-inspect-military-aid-ship-thunder-lebanon-explosion-port|title=French defence minister visits Beirut to inspect military aid ship 'Thunder'|date=14 August 2020|website=RFI|access-date=31 August 2020|archive-date=4 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073527/https://www.rfi.fr/en/international/20200814-french-defence-minister-visits-beirut-to-inspect-military-aid-ship-thunder-lebanon-explosion-port|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
}} | |||
Grechushkin reportedly went ],{{efn|The captain, Boris Prokoshev, wrote that Grechushkin had told him he had gone bankrupt, but noted that he did not believe Grechushkin.{{r|siberiantimes}}}} and after the charterers lost interest in the cargo he abandoned ''Rhosus''.<ref name="rhosus.newsmaker">{{cite news|url=https://newsmaker.md/ro/presa-substanta-care-a-provocat-explozia-din-beirut-a-fost-adusa-de-nava-unui-rus-sub-pavilionul-r-moldova|title=Substanța care a provocat explozia din Beirut a fost adusă de nava unui rus sub pavilionul R. Moldova|first=Stela|last=Untila|newspaper=NewsMaker|date=5 August 2020|access-date=5 August 2020|language=ro|archive-date=5 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805205705/https://newsmaker.md/ro/presa-substanta-care-a-provocat-explozia-din-beirut-a-fost-adusa-de-nava-unui-rus-sub-pavilionul-r-moldova|url-status=live}}</ref> The ship soon ran out of provisions, and the remaining crew were unable to disembark due to immigration restrictions. According to '']'', port state control seized ''Rhosus'' on 4{{nbsp}}February 2014 due to ]100,000 in unpaid bills.<ref name=BBC:Beirut-blast>{{Cite news|title=Beirut blast: The Inferno and the Mystery Ship|work=BBC News |date=8 August 2020|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/extra/x2iutcqf1g/beirut-blast|url-status=live|access-date=9 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200809144104/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/extra/x2iutcqf1g/beirut-blast|archive-date=9 August 2020}}</ref> The ship had accrued port fees and been ] for refusing cargo.<ref name=BBC:CaptBoris>{{Cite news|title=Captain Boris Prokoshev on Why Rhosus was in Beirut|work=BBC News|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/world-middle-east-53701648/|url-status=live|date=7 August 2020|access-date=9 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200809154306/https://www.bbc.com/news/av/world-middle-east-53701648/beirut-explosion-captain-boris-prokoshev-on-why-rhosus-was-in-beirut|archive-date=9 August 2020}}</ref>{{r|reuters.disaster}} Lawyers argued for the crew's repatriation on compassionate grounds because of the danger posed by the cargo still aboard the ship, and an Urgent Matters judge in Beirut allowed them to return home. They had been forced to live aboard the ship for about a year.{{r|rhosus.shiparrested}}{{r|rhosus.newsmaker}} | |||
{{quote|In view of the serious danger of keeping these goods in the hangar in unsuitable climatic conditions, we reaffirm our request to please request the marine agency to re-export these goods immediately to preserve the safety of the port and those working in it, or to look into agreeing to sell this amount...}} | |||
By order of the judge, ''Rhosus''{{'}}s cargo was brought ashore in 2014 and placed in Warehouse 12 at the port,<ref name="BBC-53659282" /> where it remained for the next six years.{{r|rhosus.shiparrested}}<ref name="rhosus.jazeera">{{cite news|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/officials-knew-danger-beirut-port-years-200805032416684.html|title=Beirut blast: Tracing the explosives that tore the capital apart|first=Timour|last=Azhari|journal=]|date=5 August 2020|access-date=5 August 2020|archive-date=5 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805205657/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/officials-knew-danger-beirut-port-years-200805032416684.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="rhosus.fleetmon">*{{cite web |last1=Voytenko |first1=Mikhail |title=Crew kept hostages on a floating bomb – m/v Rhosus, Beirut |url=https://www.fleetmon.com/maritime-news/2014/4194/crew-kept-hostages-floating-bomb-mv-rhosus-beirut/ |website=fleetmon |date=23 July 2014 |access-date=4 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804213142/https://www.fleetmon.com/maritime-news/2014/4194/crew-kept-hostages-floating-bomb-mv-rhosus-beirut/ |archive-date=4 August 2020 |url-status=live }} | |||
==Explosions== | |||
* {{cite web |title=Rhosus |url=https://www.fleetmon.com/vessels/rhosus_8630344_46589/ |website=Fleetmon |access-date=4 August 2020 |archive-date=7 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807010659/https://www.fleetmon.com/vessels/rhosus_8630344_46589/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="Reuters Toll Expected">{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-lebanon-security-blast/toll-expected-to-rise-in-blast-that-shook-beirut-killing-78-and-injuring-thousands-idUSKCN25107B|access-date=5 August 2020|date=5 August 2020|work=Reuters|title=Toll expected to rise in blast that shook Beirut, killing 78 and injuring thousands|last1=Nakhoul|first1=Samia|last2=Francis|first2=Ellen|archive-date=5 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805092034/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-lebanon-security-blast/toll-expected-to-rise-in-blast-that-shook-beirut-killing-78-and-injuring-thousands-idUSKCN25107B|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Rhosus'' sank in the harbor in February 2018.<ref>{{Cite news|newspaper=The New York Times|date=7 August 2020|title=Ship Cited in Beirut Blast Hasn't Sailed in 7 Years. We Found It|first=Christoph|last=Koettl|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/07/world/middleeast/lebanon-explosion-ship.html|access-date=8 August 2020|archive-date=9 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200809012700/https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/07/world/middleeast/lebanon-explosion-ship.html|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
] | |||
Lebanese ] officials had sent letters to judges requesting a resolution to the issue of the confiscated cargo, proposing that the ammonium nitrate be either exported, given to the ] or sold to the private Lebanese Explosives Company.{{efn|Ammonium nitrate has a ], and thus has been gradually phased out over concerns for misuse and safety.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.dallasnews.com/news/news/2013/10/05/ammonium-nitrate-sold-by-ton-as-u.s.-regulation-is-stymied |title=Ammonium nitrate sold by ton as U.S. regulation is stymied |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180228041244/https://www.dallasnews.com/news/news/2013/10/05/ammonium-nitrate-sold-by-ton-as-u.s.-regulation-is-stymied |archive-date=28 February 2018 |publisher=] |access-date=5 August 2020}}</ref>}}{{r|rhosus.jazeera}} Letters had been sent on<!--21 February – this letter, sent by colonel joseph skaff, a customs official, may not have been sent to a judge--> 27 June and 5 December 2014, 6 May 2015, 20 May and 13 October 2016, and 27 October 2017.{{r|rhosus.jazeera}}<ref>{{cite web|date=6 August 2020|title=العقيد جوزيف سكاف طالب بإبعاد الحمولة عن مرفأ بيروت نظراً لخطورتها|url=https://www.lebanontimes.news/archives/154897|website=Lebanon Times|language=ar|access-date=7 August 2020|archive-date=4 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073526/https://www.lebanontimes.news/archives/154897|url-status=live}}</ref> One of the letters sent in 2016 noted that judges had not replied to previous requests, and pleaded:{{r|rhosus.jazeera}} | |||
Shortly after 18:00 local time (]),{{dubious|Less than 8 minutes before the second explosion?}} firefighters were dispatched to extinguish a warehouse fire at the ].<ref name="balkiz" /> A first, smaller, explosion sent a cloud of smoke above the fires and created flashes of light said to resemble fireworks.<ref name=":1">{{Cite news|last=Hubbard|first=Ben|date=4 August 2020|title=Explosions Rock East Beirut|language=en-US|work=The New York Times|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/04/world/middleeast/beirut-explosion-blast.html|access-date=4 August 2020|issn=0362-4331|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804193448/https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/04/world/middleeast/beirut-explosion-blast.html|archive-date=4 August 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> The second explosion was much more substantial and occurred at about 18:08 local time.<ref name="auto1">{{cite web|title=M 3.3 Explosion{{Snd}} 1 km ENE of Beirut, Lebanon|website=Earthquake Hazards Program|publisher=]|url=https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/us6000b9bx/executive |access-date=5 August 2020}}</ref><ref name=":1" /> It rocked central Beirut and sent a red-orange cloud into the air.<ref>{{Cite web|last=|first=|title=Here's what the videos of the Beirut blast tell us about the explosion|url=https://www.boston.com/news/world-news/2020/08/04/beirut-explosion-videos|access-date=4 August 2020|website=Washington Post}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Pickrell|first=Ryan|title=Shocking videos capture massive explosion that rocked the Lebanese capital of Beirut|url=https://www.businessinsider.com/videos-capture-massive-explosion-that-rocked-lebanons-beirut-2020-8|access-date=4 August 2020|website=Business Insider|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805024832/https://www.businessinsider.com/videos-capture-massive-explosion-that-rocked-lebanons-beirut-2020-8|archive-date=5 August 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> The second blast was felt in northern Israel and in Cyprus, {{convert|240|km|mi|abbr=off}} away.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/live/world-middle-east-53656328|title=Beirut explosion updates: Massive blast rocks Lebanese capital|publisher=]|access-date=4 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804175009/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/live/world-middle-east-53656328|archive-date=4 August 2020|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|date=4 August 2020|title=Like an earthquake': Huge explosion rips through Beirut captured on video|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/two-explosions-rocks-lebanon-s-beirut-dozens-wounded-videos-surface-online/story-wkCeUkZGBqxMPVtrneAnNI.html|access-date=4 August 2020|publisher=]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805062135/https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/two-explosions-rocks-lebanon-s-beirut-dozens-wounded-videos-surface-online/story-wkCeUkZGBqxMPVtrneAnNI.html|archive-date=5 August 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> The ] reported the blast measured as a 3.3 ] earthquake,<ref>{{Cite news|last=Qiblawi |first=Tamara|title=Beirut's residents describe apocalyptic scenes after explosion rocks city |work=CNN |url=https://www.cnn.com/2020/08/04/middleeast/resident-beirut-blast-scenes-intl/index.html |access-date=5 August 2020}}</ref><ref name="auto1" /> while the Jordan Seismological Observatory reported that it was equivalent to a 4.5 local magnitude earthquake.<ref name="arabnews">{{Cite news |url=https://www.arabnews.com/node/1714831/middle-east |title= | |||
{{blockquote|In view of the serious danger of keeping these goods in the hangar in unsuitable climatic conditions, we reaffirm our request to please request the marine agency to re-export these goods immediately to preserve the safety of the port and those working in it, or to look into agreeing to sell this amount{{nbsp}}...}} | |||
Devastating: the terrible aftermath of the Beirut explosion |website=Arab News |access-date=5 August 2020 |date=5 August 2020 |language=en }}</ref> | |||
Each time, the requests were procedurally declined due to errors by the customs officials. However, the officials persisted in making the same requests instead of correcting the errors. Legal experts also said that the customs officials could have confiscated the material unilaterally.<ref name="HRW2020"/> | |||
==Cause== | |||
The cause of the explosions was not immediately determined,<ref name="azhari">{{cite web |last1=Azhari |first1=Timour |title=Hundreds wounded as huge blast rips through Lebanon's Beirut |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/large-explosion-rocks-lebanon-capital-beirut-200804153400078.html |website=Al Jazeera|accessdate=4 August 2020|date=4 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804163013/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/large-explosion-rocks-lebanon-capital-beirut-200804153400078.html|archive-date=4 August 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> although state media initially reported them taking place at a fireworks warehouse, while others placed them at an ] or chemical storage facility.<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite web|date=4 August 2020|title=Multiple explosions rock Downtown Beirut: Eyewitnesses|url=https://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2020/08/04/Smoke-seen-from-possible-explosion-near-port-area-in-Lebanon-s-Beirut.html|last1=Haboush|first1=Joseph|last2=Elkatouri|first2=Omar|last3=Naar|first3=Ismaeel|accessdate=4 August 2020|website=Al Arabiya English|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804153400/https://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2020/08/04/Smoke-seen-from-possible-explosion-near-port-area-in-Lebanon-s-Beirut.html|archive-date=4 August 2020|url-status=live}}</ref>{{r|guardian-count}} | |||
==Explosion== | |||
There were warehouses in the port that stored explosives and chemicals including ]s, common components of fertilizers and explosives.<ref name="reuters">{{cite web|title=Massive blast in Beirut kills at least 10, sending shockwaves across city|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-lebanon-security-blast/massive-blast-in-beirut-kills-at-10-dead-sending-shockwaves-across-city-idUSKCN25021M|work=Reuters|accessdate=4 August 2020|date=4 August 2020}}</ref> The Director General of Public Security stated the explosion was caused by the ammonium nitrate that was confiscated from the ''Rhosus''.{{r|jazeera.live.2020.08.04}}{{r|rhosus.tv2}} A security source stated that the initial fire was caused during welding work on a hole in a warehouse.<ref name="Reuters Toll Expected">{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-lebanon-security-blast/toll-expected-to-rise-in-blast-that-shook-beirut-killing-78-and-injuring-thousands-idUSKCN25107B|access-date=5 August 2020|date=5 August 2020|work=Reuters|title=Toll expected to rise in blast that shook Beirut, killing 78 and injuring thousands|last1=Nakhoul|first1=Samia|last2=Francis|first2=Ellen}}</ref> | |||
===Fire and first explosion=== | |||
Around 17:45 local time (14:45 ]) on 4 August 2020, a fire broke out in Warehouse 12 at the Port of Beirut.<ref name=eldeeb>{{cite news |last1=El Deeb |first1=Sarah |last2=Mroue |first2=Bassem |title=In a horrific instant, a burst of power that ravaged Beirut |url=https://apnews.com/7a104960789d9b25e89a889fbbc125e7 |work=Associated Press |access-date=6 August 2020 |date=6 August 2020 |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073607/https://apnews.com/7a104960789d9b25e89a889fbbc125e7 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="BBCwhatweknow" /> Warehouse 12, which was waterside and adjacent to the grain elevator, stored the ammonium nitrate that had been confiscated from ''Rhosus'' alongside a stash of ].<ref name=eldeeb /><ref>{{cite web |title=Fireworks were stored in same Beirut warehouse as ammonium nitrate – report |url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/fireworks-were-stored-in-same-beirut-warehouse-as-ammonium-nitrate-report/ |website=The Times of Israel |access-date=9 August 2020 |date=8 August 2020 |archive-date=10 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200810070340/https://www.timesofisrael.com/fireworks-were-stored-in-same-beirut-warehouse-as-ammonium-nitrate-report/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="firefighters.jazeera" /> Around 17:55 local time (14:55 UTC), a team of nine firefighters and one paramedic, known as Platoon 5, was dispatched to fight the fire.<ref name="firefighters.jazeera">{{cite news |title=How Beirut firefighters were sent into disaster |first=Timour |last=Azhari |date=August 2020 |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/beirut-firefighters-site-deadly-explosion-200807130452562.html |newspaper=Al Jazeera |access-date=8 August 2020 |archive-date=7 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807202833/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/beirut-firefighters-site-deadly-explosion-200807130452562.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="Platoon BBC">{{cite news|last1=Kohnavard|first1=Nafiseh|title=Beirut explosion: The story of Platoon Five|work=BBC News|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/world-middle-east-53797998|access-date=30 August 2020|date=16 August 2020|archive-date=30 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200830094742/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/world-middle-east-53797998|url-status=live}}</ref> On arrival the fire crew reported over the radio that there was "something wrong" as the fire was immense and produced "a crazy sound<!-- as per mos:lq as source did not include '.' -->."<ref name="firefighters.jazeera" /> | |||
The initial explosion, at about 18:07 local time (15:07 UTC), likely triggered by the stored fireworks, created a large plume of grey smoke and bright firework flashes, and heavily damaged Warehouse 12 with a force equivalent to around ].<ref name=eldeeb /><ref name="BBCwhatweknow">{{cite news |title=Beirut explosion: What we know so far |date=6 August 2020 |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-53668493 |newspaper=BBC News |access-date=8 August 2020 |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806025910/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-53668493 |url-status=live }}</ref>{{r|Hubbard}} | |||
===Final explosion=== | |||
], head of the ],<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.9news.com.au/world/beirut-explosion-bbc-journalist-maryam-toumi-flung-to-ground-live-interview-during-lebanon-blast/006dfab8-e540-4722-8f77-d4c1ffc4eee8 |title=Beirut blast: BBC journalist films live interview as Lebanon explosion rocks building she's inside of |first=Brandon |last=Livesay |date=5 August 2020 |work=] |access-date=28 July 2024}}</ref> by Moroccan journalist ], who sustained minor injuries, from the ] office in Beirut, which was damaged.]] | |||
] | |||
{{external media | float = right | width = | video1 = , ] }} | |||
The second explosion, 33 to 35 seconds later, was far more substantial<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Qiblawi |first1=Tamara |last2=Mankarious |first2=Sarah-Grace |last3=Thompson |first3=Nick |title=From sea to mountain: How a massive explosion left a trail of destruction across Beirut and beyond |work=CNN |url=https://edition.cnn.com/interactive/2020/08/middleeast/beirut-visual-guide/index.html |date=6 August 2020 |access-date=8 August 2020 |quote=The first explosion at 6:07{{nbsp}}p.m. is followed by a second massive blast 33 seconds later. |archive-date=7 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807095754/https://edition.cnn.com/interactive/2020/08/middleeast/beirut-visual-guide/index.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/05/video/beirut-explosion-footage.html|title=What Footage of the Beirut Explosion Tells Us About the Blast|first1=Evan|last1=Hill|first2=Stella|last2=Cooper|first3=Christiaan|last3=Triebert|first4=Christoph|last4=Koettl|first5=Drew|last5=Jordan|first6=Dmitriy|last6=Khavin|first7=John|last7=Ismay|newspaper=The New York Times|date=5 August 2020|access-date=8 August 2020|archive-date=8 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200808145537/https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/05/video/beirut-explosion-footage.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{cite web|title=Massive Beirut Port Blast Kills Over 100, Leaves Thousands Wounded|url=https://www.haaretz.com/middle-east-news/massive-explosion-shakes-lebanese-capital-buildings-near-beirut-port-damaged-1.9046138|access-date=4 August 2020|date=4 August 2020 |last1=Khoury|first1=Jack|last2=Landau|first2=Noa|website=Haaretz |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805065959/https://www.haaretz.com/middle-east-news/massive-explosion-shakes-lebanese-capital-buildings-near-beirut-port-damaged-1.9046138|archive-date=5 August 2020|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="auto1">{{cite web|title=M 3.3 Explosion – 1 km ENE of Beirut, Lebanon|website=Earthquake Hazards Program|publisher=]|url=https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/us6000b9bx/executive|access-date=5 August 2020|archive-date=8 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200808140548/https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/us6000b9bx/executive|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Hubbard" /> and felt in northern Israel and in Cyprus, {{convert|240|km|mi|abbr=off|sp=us}} away.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidbressan/2020/08/06/beirut-port-explosion-triggers-magnitude-3-earthquake/|title=Beirut Explosion Generates Seismic Waves Equivalent Of A Magnitude 3.3 Earthquake|first=David|last=Bressan|website=Forbes|access-date=8 August 2020|archive-date=7 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807195237/https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidbressan/2020/08/06/beirut-port-explosion-triggers-magnitude-3-earthquake/|url-status=live}}</ref>{{r|BBC-53656220}}<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/live/world-middle-east-53656328|title=Beirut explosion updates: Massive blast rocks Lebanese capital|work=]|access-date=4 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804175009/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/live/world-middle-east-53656328|archive-date=4 August 2020|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|date=4 August 2020|title=Like an earthquake': Huge explosion rips through Beirut captured on video|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/two-explosions-rocks-lebanon-s-beirut-dozens-wounded-videos-surface-online/story-wkCeUkZGBqxMPVtrneAnNI.html|access-date=4 August 2020|publisher=]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805062135/https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/two-explosions-rocks-lebanon-s-beirut-dozens-wounded-videos-surface-online/story-wkCeUkZGBqxMPVtrneAnNI.html|archive-date=5 August 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> It rocked central Beirut and created a large red-orange cloud, briefly ringed by a white ].<ref>{{Cite news|title=Here's what the videos of the Beirut blast tell us about the explosion|url=https://www.boston.com/news/world-news/2020/08/04/beirut-explosion-videos|access-date=4 August 2020|newspaper=Washington Post|archive-date=8 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200808140553/https://www.boston.com/news/world-news/2020/08/04/beirut-explosion-videos|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Pickrell|first=Ryan|title=Shocking videos capture massive explosion that rocked the Lebanese capital of Beirut|url=https://www.businessinsider.com/videos-capture-massive-explosion-that-rocked-lebanons-beirut-2020-8|access-date=4 August 2020|website=Business Insider|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805024832/https://www.businessinsider.com/videos-capture-massive-explosion-that-rocked-lebanons-beirut-2020-8|archive-date=5 August 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> The red-orange color of the smoke from the second explosion was caused by ], a byproduct of ammonium nitrate decomposition.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.compoundchem.com/2020/08/05/ammonium-nitrate/|title=What is ammonium nitrate and what happens when it explodes?|date=5 August 2020|access-date=6 August 2020|archive-date=11 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200811204844/https://www.compoundchem.com/2020/08/05/ammonium-nitrate/|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
By the next morning, the main fire that led to the explosion had been extinguished.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.npr.org/2020/08/05/899299228/satellite-images-show-aftermath-of-beirut-blast|title=Satellite Images Show Aftermath Of Beirut Blast|newspaper=NPR|date=5 August 2020|access-date=6 August 2020|archive-date=15 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210115104834/https://www.npr.org/2020/08/05/899299228/satellite-images-show-aftermath-of-beirut-blast|url-status=live|last1=Brumfiel|first1=Geoff}}</ref> | |||
===Yield=== | |||
] | |||
Despite inefficient transmission of the shock waves into the ground,{{efn|Because the explosion occurred on the earth's surface, the ]s generated by the blast are not as strong as they would have been had the equivalent amount of energy been released from underground sources.{{r|auto1}}}} the ] measured the event as a 3.3 ] ],<ref>{{cite web |url=https://edition.cnn.com/middleeast/live-news/lebanon-beirut-explosion-live-updates-dle-intl/h_da222628bccbcd0736247682b65a8675 |title=Beirut explosion rocks Lebanon's capital city |website=CNN |date=4 August 2020 |access-date=5 August 2020 |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073529/https://edition.cnn.com/middleeast/live-news/lebanon-beirut-explosion-live-updates-dle-intl/h_da222628bccbcd0736247682b65a8675 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Qiblawi |first=Tamara |title=Beirut's residents describe apocalyptic scenes after explosion rocks city |work=CNN |url=https://www.cnn.com/2020/08/04/middleeast/resident-beirut-blast-scenes-intl/index.html |access-date=5 August 2020 |archive-date=8 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200808140610/https://www.cnn.com/2020/08/04/middleeast/resident-beirut-blast-scenes-intl/index.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="auto1" /> while the Jordan Seismological Observatory reported that it was equivalent to a 4.5 {{M|l|link=yes}} earthquake.<ref name="arabnews">{{Cite news |url=https://www.arabnews.com/node/1714831/middle-east |title=Devastating: the terrible aftermath of the Beirut explosion |website=Arab News |access-date=5 August 2020 |date=5 August 2020 |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073617/https://www.arabnews.com/node/1714831/middle-east |url-status=live }}</ref> A study of seismic signatures of the explosion by the ] in Germany produced a yield estimate between 0.5 and 1.1 ].<ref>{{cite news |title=Beirut explosion causes strong shock waves – Infrasonic, hydroacoustic and seismic signals registered and investigated by BGR |url=https://www.seismologie.bgr.de/sdac/erdbeben/big_quakes/beirut_200804_eng.html |date=7 August 2020 |access-date=21 August 2020 |archive-date=18 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200818153211/http://www.seismologie.bgr.de/sdac/erdbeben/big_quakes/beirut_200804_eng.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Experts from the Blast and Impact Research Group at the ] estimated that the explosion was one of the ] ever recorded.<ref>{{cite web|date=5 August 2020|title=Beirut explosion 'one of the largest non-nuclear blasts in history'|url=https://www.standard.co.uk/news/world/beirut-explosion-one-of-largest-blasts-history-a4517646.html|access-date=10 August 2020|website=Evening Standard|archive-date=8 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200808173504/https://www.standard.co.uk/news/world/beirut-explosion-one-of-largest-blasts-history-a4517646.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |title=Port officials under house arrest after Beirut blast |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-53670839 |work=BBC News |date=6 August 2020 |access-date=6 August 2020 |archive-date=17 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210117051336/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-53670839 |url-status=live }}</ref> Later, they were able to quantitatively support this rapid estimate as they compiled more distance versus time of arrival data as new videos of the explosion became available on ] platforms. Their study found that the best estimate and upper bound prediction of the yield of the explosion are 0.5 and 1.12 kt of TNT, respectively.<ref>{{Cite journal|last1=Rigby|first1=S. E.|last2=Lodge|first2=T. J.|last3=Alotaibi|first3=S.|last4=Barr|first4=A. D.|last5=Clarke|first5=S. D.|last6=Langdon|first6=G. S.|author6-link=Genevieve Langdon|last7=Tyas|first7=A.|date=22 September 2020|title=Preliminary yield estimation of the 2020 Beirut explosion using video footage from social media|journal=Shock Waves|volume=30|issue=6|pages=671–675|language=en|doi=10.1007/s00193-020-00970-z|bibcode=2020ShWav..30..671R|issn=1432-2153|doi-access=free}}</ref> This is equal to around 1 ] of energy.<ref name="BBC54420033">{{cite news |last1=Amos |first1=Jonathan |last2=Rincon |first2=Paul |title=Beirut blast was 'historically' powerful |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-54420033 |access-date=6 October 2020 |work=BBC News |date=5 October 2020 |archive-date=5 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201005225539/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-54420033 |url-status=live }}</ref> Another study used several videos of the explosion to describe the evolution of the fireball size and estimated the Beirut explosion yield to be 0.6 ± 0.3 kt of TNT.<ref>{{cite journal | |||
| last1 = Diaz | |||
| first1 = Jorge | |||
| year = 2021 | |||
| title = Explosion analysis from images: Trinity and Beirut | |||
| journal = European Journal of Physics | |||
| volume = 42 | |||
| issue = 3 | |||
| page = 035803 | |||
| doi = 10.1088/1361-6404/abe131 | |||
| arxiv = 2009.05674 | |||
| bibcode = 2021EJPh...42c5803D | |||
| s2cid = 221655034 | |||
| issn=0143-0807 }}</ref> The Beirut explosion was similar to explosions of large amounts of ammonium nitrate in ], in 1947; in ], in 2001; and ], in 2015.<ref>{{cite news |title=What we know about the massive chemical explosion in Beirut |url=https://arstechnica.com/science/2020/08/what-we-know-about-the-massive-chemical-explosion-in-beirut/ |work=Ars Technica |date=5 May 2020 |access-date=6 August 2020 |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806060643/https://arstechnica.com/science/2020/08/what-we-know-about-the-massive-chemical-explosion-in-beirut/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Expert reaction to Beirut explosion |url=https://www.sciencemediacentre.org/expert-reaction-to-beirut-explosion/ |date=5 August 2020 |access-date=6 August 2020 |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073610/https://www.sciencemediacentre.org/expert-reaction-to-beirut-explosion/ |url-status=live }}</ref>{{efn|As a point of comparison, the ] in 1917 (which was not caused by ammonium nitrate) was the world's largest non-nuclear explosion, releasing the equivalent energy of roughly 2.9 ] (12,000 ]).<ref>{{Cite book|last1=Ruffman|first1=Alan|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=eiN0PAAACAAJ|title=Ground Zero: A Reassessment of the 1917 Explosion in Halifax Harbour|last2=Howell|first2=Colin D|publisher=Co-published by Nimbus Pub. and Gorsebrook Research Institute for Atlantic Canada Studies at Saint Mary's University|year=1994|isbn=1-55109-095-3|location=Halifax, N.S.|page=276|oclc=31518913|access-date=18 October 2020|archive-date=4 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073608/https://books.google.com/books?id=eiN0PAAACAAJ|url-status=live}}</ref>}} | |||
An independent estimate by the International Monitoring System of the ] based on infrasonic data obtained an explosive yield equivalent to 0.5–1.1 kt of TNT,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.seismologie.bgr.de/sdac/erdbeben/big_quakes/beirut_200804_eng.html|title=BGR/Seismologie/Erdbeben Aktuell|website=www.seismologie.bgr.de|access-date=21 August 2020|archive-date=18 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200818153211/http://www.seismologie.bgr.de/sdac/erdbeben/big_quakes/beirut_200804_eng.html|url-status=live}}</ref> making it the sixth-largest accidental artificial non-nuclear explosion in human history. | |||
Aouad et al. (2021) derived the kinematics of the fireball from publicly available videos. Considering a time of separation between the fireball and the ] at about 170 ]s, they concluded a TNT equivalent mass of 0.2 ± 0.08 kt of TNT or 520 ± 200 tons of ammonium nitrate at a distance of 130 meters from the explosion center.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Aouad |first1=C. J. |last2=Chemissany |first2=W. |last3=Mazzali |first3=P. |last4=Temsah |first4=Y. |last5=Jahami |first5=A. |title=Beirut explosion: TNT equivalence from the fireball evolution in the first 170 milliseconds |journal=Shock Waves |date=4 October 2021 |volume=31 |issue=8 |pages=813–827 |doi=10.1007/s00193-021-01031-9 |arxiv=2010.13537 |bibcode=2021ShWav..31..813A |doi-access=free }}</ref> This result is consistent with Dewey 2021 that suggests that the Beirut explosion TNT equivalence is an increasing function of distance.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Dewey |first1=J. M. |title=The TNT and ANFO equivalences of the Beirut explosion |journal=Shock Waves |date=January 2021 |volume=31 |issue=1 |pages=95–99 |doi=10.1007/s00193-021-00992-1 |bibcode=2021ShWav..31...95D |s2cid=232414589 }}</ref> | |||
Temsah et al. 2021 estimated the magnitude of the explosion. The research was based on a structural engineering approach with numerical non-linear finite element modeling of the grain elevator facing Warehouse 12 where the explosion took place. The numerical study model was based on silos data (geometrical and material properties) and the use of the Conventional Weapons Effects Blast Loading (CONWEP), and the Coupled Eulerian-Lagrangian (CEL) methods to generate the blast load. The analysis results proved that an amount equivalent to 564 t of AN (or 220 t of TNT) was adequate to generate damages similar to those resulting from the explosion. This amount represents 20.5% of the original stored amount (2750 t). As for the state of the grain elevator, results showed it was structurally unstable and should be demolished or properly strengthened.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Temsah |first1=Yehya |last2=Jahami |first2=Ali |last3=Aouad |first3=Charles |title=Silos structural response to blast loading |journal=Engineering Structures |date=September 2021 |volume=243 |page=112671 |doi=10.1016/j.engstruct.2021.112671 |bibcode=2021EngSt.24312671T |s2cid=236289453 |url=https://researchonline.ljmu.ac.uk/id/eprint/15968/8/silos%20structural%20response%20to%20blast%20loading.pdf |access-date=17 June 2022 |archive-date=4 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220704213039/https://researchonline.ljmu.ac.uk/id/eprint/15968/8/silos%20structural%20response%20to%20blast%20loading.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
Kim and Pasyanos (2021) put the yield between 0.62–1.25 kt, with the best and most likely estimate at 0.9 kt of TNT, with a likely depth of 2 m.<ref name=":5" /> | |||
It has been suggested that not all of the ammonium nitrate was still in the warehouse at the time of the explosion. Some experts estimated that there were only 700 to 1,000 tonnes remaining out of the original 2,750, with the rest having been removed or stolen since 2014. The US ] estimated there were about 500 tonnes left, a number which was later cited by Prime Minister Hassan Diab. However, there were also two experts who concluded that most or all of the ammonium nitrate exploded.<ref name="HRW2020"/> | |||
===Cause=== | |||
Warehouses at the Port of Beirut were used to store explosives and chemicals including ]s, which are common components of ]s and explosives.<ref name="reuters">{{cite web|title=Massive blast in Beirut kills at least 10, sending shockwaves across city|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-lebanon-security-blast/massive-blast-in-beirut-kills-at-10-dead-sending-shockwaves-across-city-idUSKCN25021M|work=Reuters|access-date=4 August 2020|date=4 August 2020|archive-date=19 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200819072650/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-lebanon-security-blast/massive-blast-in-beirut-kills-at-10-dead-sending-shockwaves-across-city-idUSKCN25021M|url-status=live}}</ref>{{efn|Other hazardous materials stored at the port included ] oxidizer, ], ], ], oils and several unknown chemicals.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://reliefweb.int/sites/reliefweb.int/files/resources/ma034_hazardous_materials_found_at_port_post_blast-300dpi.pdf |title=Lebanon: Beirut Explosion. Hazardous materials found at port (Imagery post event) |website=ReliefWeb |date=13 August 2020 |access-date=30 August 2020 |archive-date=28 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201028144839/https://reliefweb.int/sites/reliefweb.int/files/resources/ma034_hazardous_materials_found_at_port_post_blast-300dpi.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref> On 3 September 2020, the Lebanese Army announced that they found an additional 4.35 tonnes of ammonium nitrate in the customs' "Detention Port", outside the seaport near entrance number 9.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.the961.com/lebanese-army-ammonium-nitrate-beirut-port/ |title=Lebanese Army Just Found Over 4 Tons Of Explosive Material Near Beirut Port |website=the961.com |date=4 September 2020 |access-date=4 September 2020 |archive-date=22 September 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200922210505/https://www.the961.com/lebanese-army-ammonium-nitrate-beirut-port/ |url-status=live }}</ref>}} The ], Major General ], said the ammonium nitrate confiscated from ''Rhosus'' had exploded.<!--source does not appear to state that the general claimed this was the cause--><ref name="jazeera.live.2020.08.04">{{cite web|last=Gadzo|first=Mersiha|title=Dozens killed, thousands wounded in Beirut blast: Live updates|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/huge-explosion-rocks-lebanon-capital-beirut-live-updates-200804163620414.html|access-date=4 August 2020|date=4 August 2020|website=Al Jazeera|archive-date=4 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804210957/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/huge-explosion-rocks-lebanon-capital-beirut-live-updates-200804163620414.html|url-status=live}}</ref>{{r|rhosus.tv2}} The {{convert|2,750|t|ST|abbr=off|sigfig=3}} of ammonium nitrate was the equivalent to around {{convert|1155|tTNT|abbr=off|lk=in}}.<ref>{{cite news |last=Ismay |first=John |date=5 August 2020 |title=What Is Ammonium Nitrate, Blamed in the Beirut Explosion? |work=] |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/05/world/middleeast/beirut-explosion-ammonium-nitrate.html |access-date=7 August 2020 |issn=0362-4331 |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806162641/https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/05/world/middleeast/beirut-explosion-ammonium-nitrate.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The failure to remove the materials from the warehouse and relocate them was attributed to mismanagement of the port, corruption of the government, and inaction of the flag registry's country and ship owner. | |||
The ] (LBCI) reported that, according to attendees of a Higher<!--this is sometimes translated as "Supreme Defense Council", and the government itself appears to be inconsistent regarding which translation to use, or even how to spell the second word, as seen in https://www.presidency.gov.lb/English/News/Pages/DefenceCouncil.aspx--> Defence Council briefing, the fire was ignited by workers ] a door at a warehouse.<ref name="cause.national">{{cite news|url=https://www.thenational.ae/world/mena/what-caused-the-beirut-explosion-everything-we-know-so-far-1.1059236|title=What caused the Beirut explosion? Everything we know so far|first=Liz|last=Cookman|date=5 August 2020|work=]|access-date=6 August 2020|archive-date=4 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073626/https://www.thenationalnews.com/world/mena/what-caused-the-beirut-explosion-everything-we-know-so-far-1.1059236|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="cause.hindustan">{{cite news|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/beirut-blast-warnings-of-extreme-danger-ignored-by-lebanon-officials-about-stored-ammonium-nitrate/story-Sd2AA6YZmJ9PwbPZhUd6SK.html|title=Beirut blast: Warnings of 'extreme danger' ignored by Lebanon officials about stored ammonium nitrate|date=5 August 2020|first=Arpan|last=Rai|work=]|access-date=6 August 2020|archive-date=4 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073617/https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/beirut-blast-warnings-of-extreme-danger-ignored-by-lebanon-officials-about-stored-ammonium-nitrate/story-Sd2AA6YZmJ9PwbPZhUd6SK.html|url-status=live}}</ref> A former port worker said that "here were 30 to 40 nylon bags of fireworks inside warehouse 12" that he had personally seen.<ref name="GDNPortWorker">{{cite news |title=Beirut explosion: former port worker says fireworks stored in hangar |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/aug/07/beirut-explosion-former-port-worker-says-fireworks-stored-in-hangar |access-date=7 August 2020 |work=The Guardian |date=7 August 2020 |archive-date=13 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210113111615/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/aug/07/beirut-explosion-former-port-worker-says-fireworks-stored-in-hangar |url-status=live }}</ref> An American ] on 7 August said it "remains unclear ... whether fireworks, ammunition or something else stored next to the ammonium nitrate might have been involved" in worsening the warehouse fire and igniting the ammonium nitrate.<ref>{{cite news |title=U.S. Contractor Knew of Explosive Material in Beirut Since at Least 2016 |newspaper=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/10/world/middleeast/beirut-explosion-us-contractor.html |access-date=11 August 2020 |agency=The New York Times |date=11 August 2020 |archive-date=11 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200811023012/https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/10/world/middleeast/beirut-explosion-us-contractor.html |url-status=live |last1=Abi-Habib |first1=Maria |last2=Hubbard |first2=Ben }}</ref> A port worker said Warehouse 12 was "not in regular use<!-- as per mos:lq as source did not include comma -->", and that "those in charge only used to open the warehouse to stack inside it materials confiscated upon judicial orders or perilous products<!-- source did not include comma -->", though he had not seen this to include any ]s.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Al Faour |first1=Nadia |title=Hangar 12: fireworks were stored next to ammonium nitrate in Beirut warehouse, former workers say |url=https://www.thenational.ae/world/mena/hangar-12-fireworks-were-stored-next-to-ammonium-nitrate-in-beirut-warehouse-former-workers-say-1.1061940 |access-date=11 August 2020 |agency=The National |date=10 August 2020 |archive-date=24 September 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200924155228/https://www.thenational.ae/world/mena/hangar-12-fireworks-were-stored-next-to-ammonium-nitrate-in-beirut-warehouse-former-workers-say-1.1061940 |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
<!--DO NOT add speculation that this was an intentional explosion or caused by stored weapons without getting WP:CONSENSUS to do so first. See ] and ], respectively.--> | |||
==Casualties== | ==Casualties== | ||
{| class="wikitable collapsible collapsed" style="float:right; clear:right" | |||
] (portions removed due to copyright)]] | |||
|+ Confirmed casualties of foreign nationals | |||
Following the explosions, at least 135 people were confirmed dead<ref>{{cite web |title=Beirut officials under house arrest after blast |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-53670839 |website=BBC News |accessdate=5 August 2020 |date=5 August 2020}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|last=Sullivan|first=Rebecca Ratcliffe (now); Helen|last2=Holmes (earlier)|first2=Oliver|last3=Doherty|first3=Ben|date=5 August 2020|title=Beirut explosion: at least 100 dead and 4,000 wounded{{Snd}} live updates|language=en-GB|work=The Guardian|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2020/aug/04/beirut-explosion-huge-blast-port-lebanon-capital|access-date=5 August 2020|issn=0261-3077|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804201541/https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2020/aug/04/beirut-explosion-huge-blast-port-lebanon-capital|archive-date=4 August 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> and more than 5,000 were injured.{{r|guardian.live.2020.08.04}}{{Efn|Among the dead were an Australian,<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.afr.com/politics/federal/one-australian-killed-in-beirut-blast-20200805-p55ini|url-access=subscription |title=One Australian killed, embassy damaged in Beirut blast |last=Tillett |first=Andrew|date=5 August 2020 |website=Australian Financial Review}}</ref> four Bangladeshi,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://en.prothomalo.com/bangladesh/4-bangladeshis-killed-in-beirut-blast-embassy |title=4 Bangladeshis killed in Beirut blast: Embassy |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=2020-08-06 |df=dmy |website=] |accessdate=6 August 2020 |language=en }}</ref> one Belgian,<ref>{{Cite web |date=5 August 2020 |title=Belgian killed in massive Beirut blasts as death toll rises |url=https://www.brusselstimes.com/belgium/124965/belgian-killed-in-massive-beirut-blasts-as-death-toll-rises/ |access-date=5 August 2020|website=The Brussels Times|language=en}}</ref> two Filipino,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2020/8/5/Beirut-Lebanon-blast-Filipinos.html |title= 2 Filipinos dead, 12 missing in Beirut blast|author=<!--Not stated--> |date=5 August 2020 |website=CNN Philippines |access-date=5 August 2020}}</ref> one Egyptian,<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://egyptianstreets.com/2020/08/05/egypt-expresses-solidarity-after-78-killed-4000-injured-in-beirut-explosion/ |title=Egypt Expresses Solidarity After 100 Killed, 4,000+ Injured in Beirut Explosion|access-date=5 August 2020 |website=Egyptian Streets |date=5 August 2020 |language=en }}</ref> one Pakistani,<ref name="pakistanchild">{{Cite news |url=https://dailytimes.com.pk/649746/1-pakistani-child-died-4-in-critical-condition-in-beirut-blast/ |title=1 Pakistani child died 4 in critical condition in Beirut blast |date=5 August 2020 |access-date=5 August 2020 |website=Daily Times |language=en }}</ref> and one Greek<ref name="greek death">{{Cite news |url=https://www.news247.gr/kosmos/ekrixeis-sti-viryto-plirofories-gia-2-ellines-traymaties.7691872.html?utm_source=Sport24&utm_medium=BestofNetwork_home&utm_campaign=24MediaWidget&utm_term=Pos1 |title=Εκρήξεις στη Βηρυτό: Μια Ελληνίδα πολίτης νεκρή και δύο τραυματίες |website=news247.gr |date=5 August 2020 |access-date=5 August 2020 |language=el }}</ref> nationals. Among the injured there are six Filipino,<ref name="AJ-25493">{{Cite web |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/lebanon-eyes-state-emergency-deadly-beirut-blast-live-200804234925493.html |title=Lebanon eyes state of emergency as Beirut death toll climbs: Live |access-date=5 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805082935/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/lebanon-eyes-state-emergency-deadly-beirut-blast-live-200804234925493.html |archive-date=5 August 2020 |url-status=live }}</ref> five Dutch,<ref>{{cite news |last=Pieters |first=Janene |date=2020-08-05 |df=dmy |title=Beirut explosion: Dozens dead, thousands hurt including 5 at Dutch embassy |url=https://nltimes.nl/2020/08/05/beirut-explosion-dozens-dead-thousands-hurt-including-5-dutch-embassy |website=NL Times |language=en |access-date=5 August 2020}}</ref> one Indonesian,<ref name="AJ-25493" /> four Pakistani,<ref name="pakistanchild" /> six Turkish,<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.sozcu.com.tr/2020/dunya/son-dakika-beyruttaki-patlamada-6-turk-vatandasi-yaralandi-5970666/ |title=Beyrut'taki patlamada 6 Türk vatandaşı yaralandı |website=] |language=tr |date=5 August 2020}}</ref>, two Greek<ref name="greek death" /> and one Moroccan nationals,<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/08/314133/moroccan-woman-among-injured-in-beirut-explosion/ |website=Morocco World News |title=Moroccan Woman Among Injured in Beirut Explosion |date=5 August 2020 |access-date=5 August 2020 |language=en }}</ref>, twenty one Bangladeshi,<ref name=":2">{{cite web |title=Beirut blast: 4 Bangladeshis killed, 21 Bangladesh Navy crew injured |url=https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/military-affairs/2020/08/05/bangladesh-navy-crew-injured-in-beirut-blast |website=] |accessdate=6 August 2020}}</ref> and one Italian soldiers.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.ilmessaggero.it/mondo/beirut_esplosione_chi_e_militare_italiano_ferito_libano_italia_unifil_che_cosa_e_successo_oggi_ultime_notizie-5386638.html |title=Beirut, un militare italiano ferito nelle esplosioni, sotto choc altri soldati dei 1.200 che l'Italia schiera nel contingente internazionale Unifil dal 1978 |website=Il Messaggero |language=it }}</ref> Furthermore, at least 101 Bangladeshi nationals were injured in the blasts, becoming the most affected foreign community.<ref name="pakistanchild" /> Also, several ] who were members of the ] (UNIFIL) were injured by the blast.<ref name=":2" /><ref name="auto">{{Cite web|date=4 August 2020|title=Lebanon: UN 'actively assisting' in response to huge explosions at Beirut port|url=https://news.un.org/en/story/2020/08/1069542|access-date=5 August 2020|website=UN News|language=en}}</ref><ref name="OE-Beirut">{{cite web |url=https://www.offshore-energy.biz/horrific-explosion-rocks-beirut-port/ |title=Horrific explosion rocks Beirut port |publisher=Offshore Energy |accessdate=5 August 2020 }}</ref>}} | |||
|- | |||
! style="text-align:left; width:160px" | Nationality | |||
! style="text-align:center;" | Dead | |||
! style="text-align:center;" | Injured | |||
! style="text-align:left;" | <abbr title="Reference">Ref.</abbr> | |||
|- | |||
| Syria | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 43 | |||
| | |||
| <ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-lebanon-security-blast-syria/at-least-43-syrians-among-people-killed-in-beirut-blast-al-mayadeen-idUSKCN2540H4 |title=At least 43 Syrians among people killed in Beirut blast: Al Mayadeen |date=8 August 2020 |website=Reuters |access-date=8 August 2020 |archive-date=9 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200809062706/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-lebanon-security-blast-syria/at-least-43-syrians-among-people-killed-in-beirut-blast-al-mayadeen-idUSKCN2540H4 |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| Armenia (]) | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 13 | |||
| | |||
| <ref>{{cite web|url=https://news.am/eng/news/595776.html|title=Number of Armenians killed in Beirut explosion climbs to 13|website=news.am|access-date=10 August 2020|archive-date=9 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200809235805/https://news.am/eng/news/595776.html|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| Bangladesh | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 5 | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 108 | |||
| <ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.newagebd.net/article/113055/missing-bangladeshi-worker-found-dead-in-beirut-hospital |title=Missing Bangladeshi worker found dead in Beirut hospital |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=9 August 2020 |website=] |access-date=9 August 2020 |archive-date=23 September 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200923173905/https://www.newagebd.net/article/113055/missing-bangladeshi-worker-found-dead-in-beirut-hospital |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| Philippines | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 4 | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 42 | |||
| <ref name="Yah">{{cite web |url=https://ph.news.yahoo.com/filipinos-killed-beirut-blast-rises-030359705.html |title=Filipinos killed in Beirut blast rises to 4 while 31 injured |date=6 August 2020 |website=] |agency=Coconuts Manila |access-date=6 August 2020 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210527112356/https://ph.news.yahoo.com/filipinos-killed-beirut-blast-rises-030359705.html |archive-date= May 27, 2021 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://manilastandard.net/index.php/mobile/article/330894 |date=August 8, 2020 |title=11 more Filipinos injured in Beirut blast|newspaper=Manila Standard|access-date=10 August 2020|archive-date=20 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201020143733/https://manilastandard.net/index.php/mobile/article/330894|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| Egypt | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 3 | |||
| | |||
| <ref>{{Cite news |url=http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/1/64/376016/Egypt/Politics-/UPDATED-Three-Egyptians-killed-in-Beirut-explosion.aspx |title=Three Egyptians killed in Beirut explosion: Ministry |website=Ahram Online |date=5 August 2020 |access-date=6 August 2020 |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806211740/http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/1/64/376016/Egypt/Politics-/UPDATED-Three-Egyptians-killed-in-Beirut-explosion.aspx |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/1/64/376194/Egypt/Politics-/Egypt-repatriates-bodies-of-three-nationals-killed.aspx |date=8 Aug 2020 |title=Egypt repatriates bodies of three nationals killed in Beirut blast – Politics – Egypt|website=Ahram Online|access-date=8 August 2020|archive-date=30 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201030173159/http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/1/64/376194/Egypt/Politics-/Egypt-repatriates-bodies-of-three-nationals-killed.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| Belgium | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 2 | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 4 | |||
| <ref>{{cite web |date=5 August 2020 |title=Second Belgian death confirmed in Beirut explosion |url=https://www.brusselstimes.com/all-news/belgium-all-news/125068/second-belgian-death-confirmed-in-beirut-explosion/ |first1=Amée |last1=Zoutberg |access-date=5 August 2020 |website=The Brussels Times |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806095724/https://www.brusselstimes.com/all-news/belgium-all-news/125068/second-belgian-death-confirmed-in-beirut-explosion/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.aninews.in/news/world/middle-east/2-belgian-embassy-employees-suffer-injuries-in-beirut-explosion20200805054410/ |title=2 Belgian embassy employees suffer injuries in Beirut explosion |website=ANI |date=5 August 2020 |access-date=6 August 2020 |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806211839/https://www.aninews.in/news/world/middle-east/2-belgian-embassy-employees-suffer-injuries-in-beirut-explosion20200805054410/ |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| Canada | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 2 | |||
| | |||
| <ref>{{cite web |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/7276898/2-canadians-killed-in-beirut-explosion-trudeau/ |first1=Kerri |last1=Breen |title=2 Canadians among those killed in Beirut explosion: Trudeau |website=] |date=14 August 2020 |access-date=15 August 2020 |archive-date=15 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200815014231/https://globalnews.ca/news/7276898/2-canadians-killed-in-beirut-explosion-trudeau/ |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| Palestine | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 2 | |||
| | |||
| <ref>{{cite web|url=http://wafa.ps/Pages/Details/118800|title=Two Palestinian refugees succumb to wounds sustained in Beirut explosion|website=WAFA Agency|access-date=14 August 2020|url-status=dead}}{{dead link|date=October 2024}}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| France | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 1 | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 24 | |||
| <ref name="auto2">{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/reuters/2020/08/06/world/middleeast/06reuters-lebanon-security-france-casualties.html|title=One French Death, 24 Injured After Beirut Blast|date=6 August 2020|via=NYTimes.com |agency=Reuters |first1=Sudip |last1=Kar-Gupta|editor-first1=Kevin |editor-last1=Liffey |access-date=6 August 2020|archive-date=6 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806211535/https://www.nytimes.com/reuters/2020/08/06/world/middleeast/06reuters-lebanon-security-france-casualties.html|url-status=dead }}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| Italy | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 1 | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 10 | |||
| <ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.repubblica.it/esteri/2020/08/06/news/esplosione_beirut_farnesina_morta_italiana-263938249/|title=Esplosione Beirut, Farnesina: morta una cittadina italiana|date=6 August 2020|website=la Repubblica|access-date=6 August 2020|archive-date=6 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806211723/https://www.repubblica.it/esteri/2020/08/06/news/esplosione_beirut_farnesina_morta_italiana-263938249/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.rainews.it/dl/rainews/articoli/beirut-fonti-farnesina-morta-italiana-esplosione-94f24049-b4fa-47e1-b35e-a9837ff1dd07.html |title=Beirut, fonti Farnesina: morta italiana nell'esplosione |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=6 August 2020 |website=Rai News24 |language=it |access-date=7 August 2020 |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806211711/https://www.rainews.it/dl/rainews/articoli/beirut-fonti-farnesina-morta-italiana-esplosione-94f24049-b4fa-47e1-b35e-a9837ff1dd07.html |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| Ethiopia | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 1 | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 9 | |||
| <ref>{{cite web |url=https://edition.cnn.com/2020/08/07/africa/beirut-domestic-workers-ethiopia-intl/index.html |title=They were laid off and far from home. Now an explosion in Beirut has left them even more vulnerable |website=CNN |date=7 August 2020 |access-date=7 August 2020 |archive-date=7 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807181421/https://edition.cnn.com/2020/08/07/africa/beirut-domestic-workers-ethiopia-intl/index.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://borkena.com/2020/08/05/ethiopians-among-victims-in-the-explosion-in-the-lebanese-capital-beirut/|title=Ethiopians among victims in the explosion in the Lebanese capital Beirut|website=borkena.com|date=6 August 2020|access-date=6 August 2020|archive-date=6 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806223334/https://borkena.com/2020/08/05/ethiopians-among-victims-in-the-explosion-in-the-lebanese-capital-beirut/|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| Greece | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 1 | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 5 | |||
| <ref name="greek death">{{Cite news |url=https://www.news247.gr/kosmos/ekrixeis-sti-viryto-plirofories-gia-2-ellines-traymaties.7691872.html |title=Εκρήξεις στη Βηρυτό: Μια Ελληνίδα πολίτης νεκρή και δύο τραυματίες |website=news247.gr |date=5 August 2020 |access-date=5 August 2020 |language=el |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806211551/https://www.news247.gr/kosmos/ekrixeis-sti-viryto-plirofories-gia-2-ellines-traymaties.7691872.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://neoskosmos.com/en/172088/greece-sends-aid-to-beirut-as-injuries-of-greek-nationals-come-to-light/|title=Greece sends aid to Beirut as injuries of Greek nationals come to light|date=5 August 2020|website=NEOS KOSMOS|access-date=7 August 2020|archive-date=7 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807182126/https://neoskosmos.com/en/172088/greece-sends-aid-to-beirut-as-injuries-of-greek-nationals-come-to-light/|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| Netherlands | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 1 | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 5 | |||
| <ref name="hedwig.nos">{{cite news|url=https://nos.nl/artikel/2343307-echtgenote-van-nederlandse-ambassadeur-beiroet-overleden-als-gevolg-van-explosie.html|title=Echtgenote van Nederlandse ambassadeur in Beiroet overleden als gevolg van explosie|work=]|access-date=8 August 2020|language=nl|archive-date=4 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073617/https://nos.nl/collectie/13846/artikel/2343307-echtgenote-van-nederlandse-ambassadeur-in-beiroet-overleden-als-gevolg-van-explosie|url-status=live}}</ref>{{efn|The five injured were connected to the Dutch embassy. The Dutch ambassador's wife, Hedwig Waltmans-Molier, was seriously injured and later died of her injuries.{{r|dutch.embassy.nytimes}}<ref>{{cite web|url=https://nltimes.nl/2020/08/05/dutch-ambassadors-wife-seriously-hurt-beirut-explosion-dutch-royals-send-heartfelt|title=Dutch ambassador's wife seriously hurt in Beirut explosion; Dutch Royals send "heartfelt sympathy"|date=5 August 2020|website=NL Times|access-date=8 August 2020|archive-date=4 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073604/https://nltimes.nl/2020/08/05/dutch-ambassadors-wife-seriously-hurt-beirut-explosion-dutch-royals-send-heartfelt|url-status=live}}</ref>}} | |||
|- | |||
| Pakistan | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 1 | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 4 | |||
| <ref name="pakistanchild">{{Cite news |url=https://dailytimes.com.pk/649746/1-pakistani-child-died-4-in-critical-condition-in-beirut-blast/ |title=1 Pakistani child died 4 in critical condition in Beirut blast |date=5 August 2020 |access-date=5 August 2020 |website=Daily Times |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806211607/https://dailytimes.com.pk/649746/1-pakistani-child-died-4-in-critical-condition-in-beirut-blast/ |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| Australia | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 1 | |||
| | |||
| <ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.afr.com/politics/federal/one-australian-killed-in-beirut-blast-20200805-p55ini |url-access=subscription |title=One Australian killed, embassy damaged in Beirut blast |last=Tillett |first=Andrew |date=5 August 2020 |website=Australian Financial Review |access-date=5 August 2020 |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806223344/https://www.afr.com/politics/federal/one-australian-killed-in-beirut-blast-20200805-p55ini |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| Germany | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 1 | |||
| | |||
| <ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.thelocal.de/20200806/german-diplomat-killed-in-beruit-blast |title=German diplomat killed in Beirut blast |newspaper=The Local Germany |date=6 August 2020 |access-date=6 August 2020 |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806211850/https://www.thelocal.de/20200806/german-diplomat-killed-in-beruit-blast |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| United States | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 1 | |||
| | |||
| <ref>{{cite web |url=https://abcnews.go.com/International/search-rescue-continues-beirut-wakes-effects-devastating-explosion/story?id=72185153 |title=1 American among 135 dead in massive Beirut explosion, officials say |website=] |access-date=6 August 2020 |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806080051/https://abcnews.go.com/International/search-rescue-continues-beirut-wakes-effects-devastating-explosion/story?id=72185153 |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| Sri Lanka | |||
| | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 16 | |||
| <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.dailynews.lk/2020/08/10/local/225472/fifteen-sri-lankans-injured-beirut-blast|title=Fifteen Sri Lankans injured in Beirut blast|date=10 August 2020|website=Dailynews.lk|access-date=10 August 2020|archive-date=29 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201029024757/https://www.dailynews.lk/2020/08/10/local/225472/fifteen-sri-lankans-injured-beirut-blast|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| Jordan | |||
| | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 7 | |||
| <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.albawaba.com/news/seven-jordanians-wounded-beirut-blast-foreign-ministry-1372849|title=Seven Jordanians Wounded in Beirut Blast – Foreign Ministry|website=Al Bawaba|access-date=6 August 2020|archive-date=6 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806211835/https://www.albawaba.com/news/seven-jordanians-wounded-beirut-blast-foreign-ministry-1372849|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| Turkey | |||
| | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 6 | |||
| <ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.sozcu.com.tr/2020/dunya/son-dakika-beyruttaki-patlamada-6-turk-vatandasi-yaralandi-5970666/ |title=Beyrut'taki patlamada 6 Türk vatandaşı yaralandı |website=] |language=tr |date=5 August 2020 |access-date=5 August 2020 |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806221228/https://www.sozcu.com.tr/2020/dunya/son-dakika-beyruttaki-patlamada-6-turk-vatandasi-yaralandi-5970666/ |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| India | |||
| | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 5 | |||
| <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2020/aug/06/lebanon-blast-five-indians-suffered-minor-injuries-says-mea-2180081.html|title=Lebanon blast: Five Indians suffered minor injuries, says MEA|website=The New Indian Express|date=6 August 2020 |access-date=7 August 2020|archive-date=9 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200809060359/https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2020/aug/06/lebanon-blast-five-indians-suffered-minor-injuries-says-mea-2180081.html|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| Sudan | |||
| | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 5 | |||
| <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.dabangasudan.org/en/all-news/article/five-sudanese-injured-in-beirut-blast|title=Five Sudanese injured in Beirut blast|website=Radio Dabanga|date=6 August 2020 |access-date=6 August 2020|archive-date=6 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806211656/https://www.dabangasudan.org/en/all-news/article/five-sudanese-injured-in-beirut-blast|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| Kenya | |||
| | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 3 | |||
| <ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mwakilishi.com/article/diaspora-news/2020-08-06/beirut-explosion-kenyans-in-lebanon-recount-harrowing-experience|title=Beirut Explosion: Kenyans in Lebanon Recount Harrowing Experience|website=Mwakilishi.com|access-date=6 August 2020|archive-date=6 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806211638/http://www.mwakilishi.com/article/diaspora-news/2020-08-06/beirut-explosion-kenyans-in-lebanon-recount-harrowing-experience|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| Algeria | |||
| | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 2 | |||
| <ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aps.dz/en/algeria/35252-beirut-blast-two-algerians-slightly-injured|title=Beirut blast: Two Algerians slightly injured|first=Samira|last=Sidhoum|website=]|access-date=6 August 2020|archive-date=6 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806211624/http://www.aps.dz/en/algeria/35252-beirut-blast-two-algerians-slightly-injured|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| China | |||
| | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 1 | |||
| <ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.cnn.com/middleeast/live-news/lebanon-beirut-explosion-live-updates-dle-intl/index.html|title=Lebanon's capital city rocked by explosion|date=4 August 2020|website=CNN|access-date=4 August 2020|archive-date=4 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804220841/https://www.cnn.com/middleeast/live-news/lebanon-beirut-explosion-live-updates-dle-intl/index.html|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| Indonesia | |||
| | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 1 | |||
| <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2020/08/05/ministry-says-one-indonesian-injured-in-lebanon-blasts.html|title=Ministry says one Indonesian injured in Lebanon blasts|author=Moch. Fiqih Prawira Adjie|website=The Jakarta Post|date=5 August 2020|access-date=5 August 2020|archive-date=6 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806223353/https://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2020/08/05/ministry-says-one-indonesian-injured-in-lebanon-blasts.html|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| Kazakhstan | |||
| | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 1 | |||
| {{efn|The ]i consul was wounded in his office.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://astanatimes.com/2020/08/kazakh-citizens-stay-safe-after-beirut-blast-embassy-to-be-restored-says-kazakh-fm/ |title=Kazakh Citizens Stay Safe After Beirut Blast, Embassy to Be Restored, Says Kazakh FM |author=Aidana Yergaliyeva |date=5 August 2020 |work=Astana Times |access-date=5 August 2020 |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806211808/https://astanatimes.com/2020/08/kazakh-citizens-stay-safe-after-beirut-blast-embassy-to-be-restored-says-kazakh-fm/ |url-status=live }}</ref>}} | |||
|- | |||
| Morocco | |||
| | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 1 | |||
| <ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/08/314133/moroccan-woman-among-injured-in-beirut-explosion/ |website=Morocco World News |title=Moroccan Woman Among Injured in Beirut Explosion |date=5 August 2020 |access-date=5 August 2020 |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806211749/https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/08/314133/moroccan-woman-among-injured-in-beirut-explosion/ |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| Nigeria | |||
| | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 1 | |||
| <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pmnewsnigeria.com/2020/08/06/beirut-explosion-missing-nigerian-woman-found-in-hospital-port-worker-found-at-sea/|title=Beirut explosion: Missing Nigerian woman Ayobami found in hospital|date=6 August 2020|website=P.M. News|access-date=7 August 2020|archive-date=27 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201027083231/https://www.pmnewsnigeria.com/2020/08/06/beirut-explosion-missing-nigerian-woman-found-in-hospital-port-worker-found-at-sea/|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| Vietnam | |||
| | |||
| style="text-align:right;"| 1 | |||
| <ref>{{cite web|url=https://vietnamtimes.org.vn/beirut-explosion-one-vietnamese-citizen-injured-23113.html|title=Beirut explosion: One Vietnamese citizen injured|first=Hannah|last=Nguyen|date=5 August 2020|website=Vietnam Times|access-date=6 August 2020|archive-date=6 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806211827/https://vietnamtimes.org.vn/beirut-explosion-one-vietnamese-citizen-injured-23113.html|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
|} | |||
A total of 218 people were confirmed dead from the explosion, with over 7,000 injured.<ref name="HRW2020">{{Cite report |title="They Killed Us from the Inside" An Investigation into the August 4 Beirut Blast |date=2021 |url=https://www.hrw.org/sites/default/files/media_2021/08/lebanon0821_web.pdf |publisher=] |pages=706 |isbn=978-1-62313-931-5 |access-date=23 May 2022 |archive-date=26 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220626234927/https://www.hrw.org/sites/default/files/media_2021/08/lebanon0821_web.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.france24.com/en/middle-east/20210731-they-have-to-pay-for-what-they-did-families-of-beirut-blast-victims-fight-for-justice|title='They have to pay for what they did': Families of Beirut blast victims fight for justice|date=31 July 2021|website=France24|access-date=18 August 2021|archive-date=4 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404042047/https://www.france24.com/en/middle-east/20210731-they-have-to-pay-for-what-they-did-families-of-beirut-blast-victims-fight-for-justice|url-status=live}}</ref> Foreigners from at least 22 countries were among the casualties.{{Efn|Among the dead were forty-three Syrian, thirteen Armenian, five Bangladeshi, four Filipino, three Egyptian, two Belgian, two Canadian, two Palestinian, one French, one Italian, one Ethiopian, one Greek, one Dutch, one Pakistani, one Australian, one German, and one American national. Among the injured were one hundred and eight Bangladeshi, forty-two Filipino, twenty-four French, fifteen Sri Lankan, ten Italian, nine Ethiopian, seven Jordanian, six Turkish, five Dutch, five Greek, five Indian, five Sudanese, four Belgian, four Pakistani, three Kenyan, two Algerian, one Chinese, one Indonesian, one Kazakhstani, one Moroccan, one Nigerian, one Portuguese and one Vietnamese national.}} Several ] who were members of the ] (UNIFIL) were injured by the blast.<ref name=":2">{{cite web |title=Beirut blast: 4 Bangladeshis killed, 21 Bangladesh Navy crew injured |url=https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/military-affairs/2020/08/05/bangladesh-navy-crew-injured-in-beirut-blast |website=] |date=5 August 2020 |access-date=6 August 2020 |archive-date=5 August 2020 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20200805114327/https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/military-affairs/2020/08/05/bangladesh-navy-crew-injured-in-beirut-blast |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="auto">{{cite web|date=4 August 2020|title=Lebanon: UN 'actively assisting' in response to huge explosions at Beirut port|url=https://news.un.org/en/story/2020/08/1069542|access-date=5 August 2020|website=UN News |archive-date=5 August 2020|archive-url=https://archive.today/20200805120513/https://news.un.org/en/story/2020/08/1069542|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="OE-Beirut">{{cite web |url=https://www.offshore-energy.biz/horrific-explosion-rocks-beirut-port/ |title=Horrific explosion rocks Beirut port |date=5 August 2020 |publisher=Offshore Energy |access-date=5 August 2020 |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806010555/https://www.offshore-energy.biz/horrific-explosion-rocks-beirut-port/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The ] (UNHCR) reported that 34 refugees were among the dead and missing, and an additional 124 refugees were injured.<ref>{{cite web|last=Refugees|first=United Nations High Commissioner for|title=Beirut blast death toll includes dozens of refugees, emergency response ramps up|url=https://www.unhcr.org/news/briefing/2020/8/5f32469f4/beirut-blast-death-toll-includes-dozens-refugees-emergency-response-ramps.html|access-date=14 August 2020|publisher=UNHCR|archive-date=12 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200812190523/https://www.unhcr.org/news/briefing/2020/8/5f32469f4/beirut-blast-death-toll-includes-dozens-refugees-emergency-response-ramps.html|url-status=live}}</ref> At least 150 people were left permanently disabled as a result of the explosion.<ref>{{cite news|title=Scarred for life: Beirut blast victims and life-altering wounds|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/scarred-life-beirut-blast-victims-life-altering-wounds-200825112158338.html|publisher=]|date=25 August 2020|access-date=25 August 2020|archive-date=25 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200825215107/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/scarred-life-beirut-blast-victims-life-altering-wounds-200825112158338.html|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
], the secretary-general of the ], died after suffering severe head injuries during the blast,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.cnn.com/middleeast/live-news/lebanon-beirut-explosion-live-updates-dle-intl/index.html|title=Live updates: Lebanese capital rocked by huge explosion|date=4 August 2020|access-date=4 August 2020|work=CNN|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804220841/https://www.cnn.com/middleeast/live-news/lebanon-beirut-explosion-live-updates-dle-intl/index.html|archive-date=4 August 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> and Kamal Hayek, chairman of the ], was in critical condition.{{r|:1}} The ]i consul was wounded in his office.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://astanatimes.com/2020/08/kazakh-citizens-stay-safe-after-beirut-blast-embassy-to-be-restored-says-kazakh-fm/ |title=Kazakh Citizens Stay Safe After Beirut Blast, Embassy to Be Restored, Says Kazakh FM |author=Aidana Yergaliyeva |date=2020-08-05 |df=dmy |work=Astana Times |accessdate=5 August 2020}}</ref> | |||
===Notable casualties=== | |||
All ten members of Platoon 5, a team of nine firefighters and a paramedic, died at the scene of the blast.<ref name="Platoon BBC"/> ], the secretary-general of the ], died after sustaining severe head injuries.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.cnn.com/middleeast/live-news/lebanon-beirut-explosion-live-updates-dle-intl/index.html|title=Live updates: Lebanese capital rocked by huge explosion|date=4 August 2020|access-date=4 August 2020|work=CNN|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804220841/https://www.cnn.com/middleeast/live-news/lebanon-beirut-explosion-live-updates-dle-intl/index.html|archive-date=4 August 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> French architect ] died after sustaining serious injuries at his apartment in the East Village<!-- this is not a neighbourhood like in manhattan, but a building, designed by bonfils himself --> building in ]. He had been ] the fire at the warehouse on ] at the time.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nouvelobs.com/monde/20200806.OBS31910/l-architecte-francais-jean-marc-bonfils-est-decede-lors-des-explosions-a-beyrouth.html|title=L'architecte français Jean-Marc Bonfils est décédé lors des explosions à Beyrouth|website=L'Obs|date=6 August 2020|access-date=7 August 2020|archive-date=7 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807193726/https://www.nouvelobs.com/monde/20200806.OBS31910/l-architecte-francais-jean-marc-bonfils-est-decede-lors-des-explosions-a-beyrouth.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="saudi24news">{{cite web|url=https://www.saudi24news.com/2020/08/jean-marc-bonfils-killed-by-the-love-of-beirut-2.html|title=Jean-Marc Bonfils ... killed by the love of Beirut|date=7 August 2020|access-date=7 August 2020|archive-date=4 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073624/https://www.saudi24news.com/2020/08/jean-marc-bonfils-killed-by-the-love-of-beirut-2.html|url-status=live}}</ref> ], ] and member of the ], died on 31 August from injuries sustained from the blast.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.lorientlejour.com/article/1231003/lady-cochrane-disparition-dune-icone.html|title=Lady Cochrane, disparition d'une icône|date=31 August 2020|website=L'Orient-Le Jour|language=fr|access-date=31 August 2020|archive-date=31 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200831165124/https://www.lorientlejour.com/article/1231003/lady-cochrane-disparition-dune-icone.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.agenzianova.com/a/5f4d22468818d6.20090183/3079725/2020-08-31/libano-morta-filantropa-yvonne-sursock-cochrane-coinvolta-in-esplosione-beirut|title=Libano: morta filantropa Yvonne Sursock Cochrane coinvolta in esplosione Beirut|website=Agenzia Nova|language=it|date=31 August 2020|access-date=31 August 2020|archive-date=31 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200831165644/https://www.agenzianova.com/a/5f4d22468818d6.20090183/3079725/2020-08-31/libano-morta-filantropa-yvonne-sursock-cochrane-coinvolta-in-esplosione-beirut|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
==Damage== | ==Damage== | ||
] | |||
] | |||
] as seen from the ] a week after the disaster, with inset of an enlarged view of the explosion crater (top left)]] | |||
The explosion overturned cars and stripped steel-framed buildings of their cladding.<ref name="BBC-53656220">{{cite web|title=Many injured as large blast rocks Beirut|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-53656220|website=]|last1=Nasrallah|first1=Hadi|last2=Rose|first2=Sunniva|accessdate=4 August 2020|date=4 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804163034/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-53656220|archive-date=4 August 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> Within the port area, the explosion destroyed a section of shoreline and left a crater nearly {{convert|120|m|ft}} in diameter.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/hisutton/2020/08/05/new-satellite-image-shows-beirut-explosion-devastation/#5c830ad20013 |title=Satellite Image Shows Beirut Explosion Devastation |website=Forbes |date=5 August 2020 }}</ref> Witnesses said that homes as far as {{convert|10|km|mi|0|abbr=off}} away were damaged by the blast,<ref name="balkiz">{{cite news |last1=Balkiz |first1=Ghazi |last2=Qiblawi |first2=Tamara |last3=Wedeman |first3=Ben |title=Beirut explosion shatters windows across Lebanese capital |url=https://www.cnn.com/2020/08/04/middleeast/beirut-explosion-port-intl/index.html |accessdate=4 August 2020 |publisher=CNN |date=5 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804212749/https://www.cnn.com/2020/08/04/middleeast/beirut-explosion-port-intl/index.html |archive-date=4 August 2020 |url-status=live }}</ref> and up to 300,000 people were left homeless by the explosions.<ref name="300k">{{cite news |last1=Regencia |first1=Ted |last2=Alsaafin |first2=Linah |title=Up to 300,000 left homeless by Beirut explosion: Live updates |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/lebanon-eyes-state-emergency-deadly-beirut-blast-live-200804234925493.html |accessdate=5 August 2020 |publisher=Al Jazeera |date=5 August 2020}}</ref> The ], the city's second-largest, was destroyed,{{r|guardian.live.2020.08.04}} exacerbating food shortages caused by the ] and a ].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.france24.com/en/20200701-food-insecurity-hits-middle-class-amid-lebanon-s-economic-crisis |title=Food insecurity hits middle class amid Lebanon's economic crisis |last=Molana-Allen |first=Leila |date=1 July 2020 |website=France 24 |access-date=4 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200702094255/https://www.france24.com/en/20200701-food-insecurity-hits-middle-class-amid-lebanon-s-economic-crisis |archive-date=2 July 2020 |url-status=live }}</ref> About 15,000 tonnes of grain were destroyed, leaving the country with less than a month's worth of grain in reserve.{{r|AJE 05-08}} | |||
{{external media | |||
| float = right | |||
| width = 300px | |||
| image1 = captured by ] on 5 August 2020.<ref name="auto6">{{cite web|url=https://disasterscharter.org/web/guest/activations/-/article/industrial-accident-in-lebanon-activation-664-|title=Industrial accident in Lebanon – Activations – International Disasters Charter|website=disasterscharter.org|access-date=7 August 2020|archive-date=7 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807074519/https://disasterscharter.org/web/guest/activations/-/article/industrial-accident-in-lebanon-activation-664-|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
}} | |||
The explosion overturned cars and stripped steel-framed buildings of their ].<ref name="BBC-53656220">{{cite web|title=Many injured as large blast rocks Beirut|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-53656220|website=]|last1=Nasrallah|first1=Hadi|last2=Rose|first2=Sunniva|access-date=4 August 2020|date=4 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804163034/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-53656220|archive-date=4 August 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> Within the port area, the explosion destroyed a section of shoreline and left a ] roughly {{cvt|124|m|ft}} in diameter and {{cvt|43|m|ft}} in depth.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/hisutton/2020/08/05/new-satellite-image-shows-beirut-explosion-devastation/#5c830ad20013 |title=Satellite Image Shows Beirut Explosion Devastation |website=Forbes |date=5 August 2020 |access-date=5 August 2020 |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073634/https://www.forbes.com/sites/hisutton/2020/08/05/new-satellite-image-shows-beirut-explosion-devastation/#5c830ad20013 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="crater.diameter">{{cite web|url=https://edition.cnn.com/middleeast/live-news/lebanon-beirut-explosion-live-updates-dle-intl/h_677c04ba1554d609a9df0cf2f65add32|title=The Beirut explosion created a 405-foot-wide crater|date=4 August 2020|website=CNN|access-date=10 August 2020|archive-date=9 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200809143018/https://edition.cnn.com/middleeast/live-news/lebanon-beirut-explosion-live-updates-dle-intl/h_677c04ba1554d609a9df0cf2f65add32|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="crater.depth">{{cite web|url=https://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2020/08/09/Beirut-explosion-leaves-43-meter-deep-crater-Security-official-.html|title=Beirut explosion leaves 43-meter deep crater: Security official|date=9 August 2020|website=Al Arabiya English|access-date=10 August 2020|archive-date=25 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201025203255/https://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2020/08/09/Beirut-explosion-leaves-43-meter-deep-crater-Security-official-.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|language=fr|url=https://www.arretsurimages.net/articles/le-cratere-de-beyrouth-ne-fait-pas-43-m-de-profondeur|author=Loris Guémart|title=Le cratère de Beyrouth ne fait pas 43 m de profondeur|date=7 September 2020|website=Arrêt sur images|access-date=8 September 2020|archive-date=18 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200918081438/https://www.arretsurimages.net/articles/le-cratere-de-beyrouth-ne-fait-pas-43-m-de-profondeur|url-status=live}}</ref> Homes as far as {{convert|10|km|mi|0|abbr=off|sp=us}} away were damaged by the blast,<ref name="balkiz">{{cite news |last1=Balkiz |first1=Ghazi |last2=Qiblawi |first2=Tamara |last3=Wedeman |first3=Ben |title=Beirut explosion shatters windows across Lebanese capital |url=https://www.cnn.com/2020/08/04/middleeast/beirut-explosion-port-intl/index.html |access-date=4 August 2020 |publisher=CNN |date=5 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804212749/https://www.cnn.com/2020/08/04/middleeast/beirut-explosion-port-intl/index.html |archive-date=4 August 2020 |url-status=live }}</ref> and up to 300,000 people were left ] by the explosion.{{r|AJE 05-08}}{{r|jazeera.live.2020.08.10}}<ref name="auto3">{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-53720383|title=Lebanon's government 'to resign over blast'|date=10 August 2020|access-date=10 August 2020|website=]|archive-date=10 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200810112441/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-53720383|url-status=live}}</ref> The grain elevator was largely destroyed,<ref name="guardian.live.2020.08.04">{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2020/aug/04/beirut-explosion-huge-blast-port-lebanon-capital|title=Beirut explosion: dead and wounded among 'hundreds of casualties', says Lebanon Red Cross – live updates|first1=Oliver|last1=Holmes|first2=Peter|last2=Beaumont|first3=Michael|last3=Safi|first4=Martin|last4=Chulov|date=4 August 2020|website=The Guardian|access-date=4 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804201541/https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2020/aug/04/beirut-explosion-huge-blast-port-lebanon-capital|archive-date=4 August 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> exacerbating food shortages caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the financial crisis.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.france24.com/en/20200701-food-insecurity-hits-middle-class-amid-lebanon-s-economic-crisis |title=Food insecurity hits middle class amid Lebanon's economic crisis |last=Molana-Allen |first=Leila |date=1 July 2020 |website=France 24 |access-date=4 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200702094255/https://www.france24.com/en/20200701-food-insecurity-hits-middle-class-amid-lebanon-s-economic-crisis |archive-date=2 July 2020 |url-status=live }}</ref> About {{convert|15,000|t|sigfig=3}} of grain were lost, leaving the country with less than a month's worth of grain in reserve.{{r|AJE 05-08}} However, part of the elevator's sturdy structure survived, shielding a large area of western Beirut from greater destruction.<ref name="National20"/> | |||
The damage |
The damage from the blast affected over half of Beirut, with the likely cost above US$15 billion and ] losses at around US$3 billion.<ref>{{Cite news|last1=Hussain|first1=Noor Zainab|last2=Cohn|first2=Carolyn|date=7 August 2020|title=Insured losses from Beirut blast seen around $3 billion: sources|work=reuters|url=https://in.reuters.com/article/us-lebanon-security-blast-insurance/insured-losses-from-beirut-blast-seen-around-3-billion-sources-idINKCN2532IF|access-date=8 August 2020|archive-date=8 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200808032328/https://in.reuters.com/article/us-lebanon-security-blast-insurance/insured-losses-from-beirut-blast-seen-around-3-billion-sources-idINKCN2532IF|url-status=dead}}</ref> Approximately ninety percent of the city's hotels were damaged and three hospitals completely destroyed, while two more suffered damage.<ref name="AJE 05-08">{{cite news|work=]|title=Lebanon eyes state of emergency after deadly Beirut blast: Live|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/lebanon-eyes-state-emergency-deadly-beirut-blast-live-200804234925493.html|date=5 August 2020|access-date=5 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805082935/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/lebanon-eyes-state-emergency-deadly-beirut-blast-live-200804234925493.html|archive-date=5 August 2020|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://edition.cnn.com/middleeast/live-news/lebanon-beirut-explosion-live-updates-dle-intl/h_5372a5d4a996a45c2a92adfd03525251|title=90% of Beirut hotels damaged, state media says|date=4 August 2020|website=CNN|access-date=6 August 2020|archive-date=4 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073540/https://edition.cnn.com/middleeast/live-news/lebanon-beirut-explosion-live-updates-dle-intl/h_5372a5d4a996a45c2a92adfd03525251|url-status=live}}</ref> Dozens of injured people brought to nearby hospitals could not be admitted because of the damage to the hospitals. Windows and other installations of glass across the city were shattered.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Singhvi |first1=Anjali |last2=Reinhard |first2=Scott |last3=McCann |first3=Allison |last4=Leatherby |first4=Lauren |last5=Migliozzi |first5=Blacki |date=5 August 2020 |title=Mapping the Damage From the Beirut Explosion |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2020/08/04/world/middleeast/beirut-explosion-damage.html |access-date=6 August 2020 |issn=0362-4331 |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806005038/https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2020/08/04/world/middleeast/beirut-explosion-damage.html |url-status=live }}</ref> | ||
], one of the city's largest medical facilities, was less than {{convert|1|km|mi|frac=8|abbr=off|sp=us}} from the explosion, and was so badly damaged that staff were forced to treat patients in the street.<ref name="Hubbard" /><ref name="guardian-count">{{Cite news|title=Lebanon: at least 78 killed as huge explosion rocks Beirut|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/aug/04/huge-explosion-beirut-lebanon-shatters-windows-rocks-buildings|last1=Chulov|first1=Martin|date=4 August 2020|access-date=4 August 2020|work=]|last2=Safi|first2=Michael|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804160549/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/aug/04/huge-explosion-beirut-lebanon-shatters-windows-rocks-buildings|archive-date=4 August 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> Four nurses died from the initial blast, fifteen patients died after their ]s stopped working, and several child cancer patients were injured by flying glass.<ref>{{cite news |title=Beirut after the blast: the crunch of glass, acrid smoke and stairs slick with blood |url=https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2020/08/05/beirut-after-the-blast-the-crunch-of-glass-acrid-smoke-and-stairs-slick-with-blood |access-date=7 August 2020 |agency=The Economist |date=5 August 2020 |archive-date=7 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807125328/https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2020/08/05/beirut-after-the-blast-the-crunch-of-glass-acrid-smoke-and-stairs-slick-with-blood |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="Hubbard">{{cite news|last1=Hubbard|first1=Ben|last2=Abi-Habib|first2=Maria|date=5 August 2020|title=Deadly Explosions Shatter Beirut, Lebanon|work=]|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/04/world/middleeast/beirut-explosion-blast.html|url-status=live|access-date=5 August 2020|archive-date=4 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804211437/https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/04/world/middleeast/beirut-explosion-blast.html}}</ref><ref name="BBC-53659282">{{cite news |last=Ruhayem |first=Rami |last2=Adams |first2=Paul |date=5 August 2020 |title=Rescue workers search rubble after deadly Beirut blast |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-53659282 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805050156/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-53659282 |archive-date=5 August 2020 |access-date=5 August 2020 |work=BBC News}}</ref> Within hours, after discharging all its patients and sending some to other facilities, Saint George Hospital was forced to close.<ref name="Ramzy">{{cite news |last1=Ramzy |first1=Austin |title=What We Know and Don't Know About the Beirut Explosions |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/05/world/middleeast/beirut-explosion-what-happened.html |access-date=5 August 2020 |work=The New York Times |date=5 August 2020 |archive-date=13 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200813034409/https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/05/world/middleeast/beirut-explosion-what-happened.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The hospital's director of intensive care, Dr. Joseph Haddad, was quoted as saying: "There is no Saint George Hospital anymore. It's fallen, it's on the floor{{nbsp}}... It's all destroyed. All of it."<ref name="Hubbard" /> | |||
{{quote|There is no St. George Hospital any more. It's fallen, it's on the floor... It's all destroyed. All of it.}} | |||
] |
The ] was severely damaged, as was much of its artwork, and some ceramics were completely destroyed.<ref name="Bishara">{{cite web |last1=Bishara |first1=Hakim |title=Deadly Explosion in Beirut Decimates Thousands of Buildings, Including Galleries and Museums |url=https://hyperallergic.com/580732/deadly-beirut-explosion/ |website=Hyperallergic |access-date=6 August 2020 |date=5 August 2020 |archive-date=7 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807083142/https://hyperallergic.com/580732/deadly-beirut-explosion/ |url-status=live}}</ref> The atelier for the fashion house ] was heavily damaged by the explosion.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.vogue.com/article/sandra-mansour-lebanese-designer-on-beirut-explosion |title=Lebanese Designer Sandra Mansour on the Beirut Explosion, One Week Later |date=13 August 2020 |access-date=21 November 2020 |archive-date=2 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201102015524/https://www.vogue.com/article/sandra-mansour-lebanese-designer-on-beirut-explosion |url-status=live}}</ref> ], a 160-year-old Beirut landmark that was listed as a cultural heritage site, also sustained heavy damage, as did its many works of art.<ref name="sursock.palace">{{cite web|title=Blast destroyed landmark 19th century palace in Beirut|url=https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/blast-destroyed-landmark-19th-century-palace-beirut-72276766|website=]|access-date=10 August 2020|archive-date=10 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200810200138/https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/blast-destroyed-landmark-19th-century-palace-beirut-72276766|url-status=live}}</ref>{{efn|The palace had been restored over a twenty-year period following the ] of 1975–1990.{{r|sursock.palace}}}} Some glass artifacts in the ] were also destroyed, and the huge 118-year-old door which opened onto the main exhibition space was blown off its hinges.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.aub.edu.lb/articles/Pages/archaeological-museum-beirut-blast.aspx |title=AUB Archaeological Museum counts cost of Beirut blast |date=22 August 2020 |access-date=19 April 2023 |archive-date=19 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230419154945/https://www.aub.edu.lb/articles/Pages/archaeological-museum-beirut-blast.aspx |url-status=live }}</ref> ], which hosts the ], was severely damaged. The ] sustained great damage.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://en.armradio.am/2020/08/05/armenian-catholicosate-damaged-in-beirut-explosion/|title=Armenian Catholicosate damaged in Beirut explosion|website=Public Radio of Armenia|access-date=10 August 2020|archive-date=27 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200927035931/https://en.armradio.am/2020/08/05/armenian-catholicosate-damaged-in-beirut-explosion/|url-status=live}}</ref> All the ] windows of the ] were blown out.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.baptistmessenger.com/beirut-blast-prompts-prayer-from-messianic-believers/|title=Beirut blast prompts prayer from Messianic believers|last=Chandler|first=Diana|work=The Baptist Messenger of Oklahoma|date=5 August 2020|access-date=9 August 2020|archive-date=23 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200923202423/https://www.baptistmessenger.com/beirut-blast-prompts-prayer-from-messianic-believers/|url-status=live}}</ref> The ] headquarters was also heavily damaged.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Ramos |first1=Gerry |title=SBP sends sympathy as FIBA Asia headquarters damaged in Lebanon blast |url=https://www.spin.ph/basketball/fiba/sbp-sends-sympathy-as-fiba-asia-headquarters-damaged-in-lebanon-blast-a793-20200806?ref=home_feed_6 |access-date=7 August 2020 |work=Sports Interactive Network Philippines |date=6 August 2020 |archive-date=21 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201021215324/https://www.spin.ph/basketball/fiba/sbp-sends-sympathy-as-fiba-asia-headquarters-damaged-in-lebanon-blast-a793-20200806?ref=home_feed_6 |url-status=live }}</ref> ] reported varying degrees of damage to their buildings; the embassies of Argentina,<ref>{{cite web|date=5 August 2020|title=La embajada argentina sufrió graves daños, pero sin heridos.|url=https://www.telam.com.ar/notas/202008/498363-libano-embajada-argentina-beirut.html|access-date=5 August 2020|website=]|language=es|archive-date=4 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073543/https://www.telam.com.ar/notas/202008/498363-libano-embajada-argentina-beirut.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Australia,<ref name="shelton">{{cite news |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-08-05/australian-embassy-damaged-in-beirut-blast/12525330 |title=Beirut explosion leaves Australian embassy 'considerably' damaged, one Australian dead |last=Shelton |first=Tracey |date=5 August 2020 |website=] |access-date=5 August 2020 |archive-date=5 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805091656/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-08-05/australian-embassy-damaged-in-beirut-blast/12525330 |url-status=live }}</ref> Finland,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://newsnowfinland.fi/finland-international/report-finnish-embassy-in-beirut-destroyed-by-blast |title=Report: Finnish Embassy in Beirut 'destroyed' by blast |date=4 August 2020 |website=News Now Finland |access-date=4 August 2020 |archive-date=5 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805091650/https://newsnowfinland.fi/finland-international/report-finnish-embassy-in-beirut-destroyed-by-blast |url-status=live }}</ref> Cyprus,{{r|AJE 05-08}} and the Netherlands,<ref name="dutch.embassy.nytimes">{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/reuters/2020/08/05/world/middleeast/05reuters-lebanon-security-blast-netherlands.html|title=Wife of Dutch Ambassador Seriously Injured in Beirut Blast: Ministry|date=5 August 2020|via=NYTimes.com|access-date=6 August 2020|archive-date=7 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807201735/https://www.nytimes.com/reuters/2020/08/05/world/middleeast/05reuters-lebanon-security-blast-netherlands.html|url-status=live}}</ref> which were close to the blast, sustained heavy damage, while minor damage was reported from the South Korean,<ref>{{cite web|date=5 August 2020|title=No S. Koreans Reported Killed or Injured in Beirut Explosions|url=http://world.kbs.co.kr/service/news_view.htm?lang=e&Seq_Code=155355|access-date=5 August 2020|website=KBS World RADIO|archive-date=5 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805093406/http://world.kbs.co.kr/service/news_view.htm?lang=e&Seq_Code=155355|url-status=live}}</ref> Hungarian,<ref>{{cite web |title=Hungary Embassy Damaged in Beirut Blast, No Hungarian Casualties Reported |url=https://hungarytoday.hu/hungary-embassy-beirut-blast-no-hungarian-casualties/ |website=Hungary Today |date=5 August 2020 |access-date=6 August 2020 |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806205003/https://hungarytoday.hu/hungary-embassy-beirut-blast-no-hungarian-casualties/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Kazakh,<ref name="russokazakhembassies">{{Cite news |website=BBC News Русская служба |publisher=BBC News |title=Мощный взрыв в Бейруте: масштабные разрушения, десятки погибших и тысячи пострадавших |url=https://www.bbc.com/russian/news-53656494 |language=ru |access-date=4 August 2020 |date=4 August 2020 |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073542/https://www.bbc.com/russian/news-53656494 |url-status=live }}</ref> Russian,<ref name="russokazakhembassies" /> Bulgarian,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://focus-news.net/news/2020/08/04/2795563/schupeni-sa-prozortsi-na-posolstvoto-ni-v-beyrut-sled-vzriv-v-rayona-nyama-danni-za-postradali-balgarski-grazhdani.html|title=Счупени са прозорци на посолството ни в Бейрут след взрив в района, няма данни за пострадали български граждани|website=Информационна Агенция "Фокус"|language=bg|date=4 August 2020|access-date=8 August 2020|archive-date=7 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807004853/http://www.focus-news.net/news/2020/08/04/2795563/schupeni-sa-prozortsi-na-posolstvoto-ni-v-beyrut-sled-vzriv-v-rayona-nyama-danni-za-postradali-balgarski-grazhdani.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Romanian,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.romania-insider.com/beirut-explosion-ro-embassy-aug-2020 |url-access=subscription |title=Beirut explosion: Romanian embassy HQ slightly damaged |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=5 August 2020 |website=Romania Insider |access-date=5 August 2020 |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073606/https://www.romania-insider.com/beirut-explosion-ro-embassy-aug-2020 |url-status=live }}</ref> and Turkish<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.aa.com.tr/tr/dunya/beyrut-taki-patlamalarda-2-turk-vatandasi-yaralandi/1931621 |title=Beyrut'taki patlamalarda 2 Türk vatandaşı yaralandı |agency=] |language=tr |date=4 August 2020 |access-date=5 August 2020 |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073546/https://www.aa.com.tr/tr/dunya/beyrut-taki-patlamalarda-2-turk-vatandasi-yaralandi/1931621 |url-status=live }}</ref> embassies. | ||
===Shipping=== | ===Shipping=== | ||
The cruise ship '']'', ] near Warehouse 12, suffered extensive damage and ] overnight.<ref name="IHS-18082020">{{cite web |last1=Domballe |first1=Jeremy |title=Update: The current situation in the port of Beirut, Lebanon |url=https://ihsmarkit.com/research-analysis/update-the-current-situation-in-the-port-of-beirut-lebanon.html |publisher=IHS Markit |access-date=3 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201003122140/https://ihsmarkit.com/research-analysis/update-the-current-situation-in-the-port-of-beirut-lebanon.html |archive-date=3 October 2020 |date=18 August 2020}}</ref><ref name="CIN">{{cite news |title=Orient Queen Sinks in Beirut, Two Crew Reported Dead |url=https://www.cruiseindustrynews.com/cruise-news/23337-orient-queen-sinks-in-beirut-two-crew-reported-dead.html |access-date=5 August 2020 |work=Cruise Industry News |date=5 August 2020 |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806010547/https://www.cruiseindustrynews.com/cruise-news/23337-orient-queen-sinks-in-beirut-two-crew-reported-dead.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Two members of the crew were killed, and seven crew members were injured.<ref name="CIN" /><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.euronews.com/2020/08/07/owner-of-cruise-ship-sunk-by-lebanon-blast-sues-those-responsible|title=Owner of cruise ship sunk by Lebanon blast sues 'those responsible'|date=7 August 2020|website=euronews|access-date=8 August 2020|archive-date=8 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200808040436/https://www.euronews.com/2020/08/07/owner-of-cruise-ship-sunk-by-lebanon-blast-sues-those-responsible|url-status=live}}</ref> On 7 August, the first lawsuit related to the explosions was filed by the ship's owners, Abou Merhi Cruises, whose offices were also destroyed.<ref name="CIN" /><ref> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200808124621/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/aug/08/beirut-explosion-cruise-ship-owner-sues-those-responsible-as-more-protests-loom |date=8 August 2020 }} '']''</ref> The ] ] ], which participated in UNIFIL, was also damaged.<ref name=":2" /><ref name="auto" /><ref>{{cite web|title=European Navies Providing Disaster Relief To Beirut|url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2020/08/european-navies-providing-disaster-relief-to-beirut/|website=Naval News|date=10 August 2020|access-date=13 August 2020|archive-date=22 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200922114327/https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2020/08/european-navies-providing-disaster-relief-to-beirut/|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
The cruise ship '']'', owned by Abou Merhi Cruises and berthed nearby, suffered extensive damage. Two members of the crew were killed,<ref name="CIN" /> and several on board were injured.<ref>{{cite news |title='I can't believe I'm alive': Survivors recount Beirut explosion |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/alive-survivors-recount-beirut-explosion-200804175426591.html |accessdate=5 August 2020 |work=Al Jazeera}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Orient Queen Cruise Ship Damaged in Blast In Beirut |url=https://www.cruiselawnews.com/2020/08/articles/fires/orient-queen-cruise-ship-damaged-in-blast-in-beirut/ |website=Cruise Law News |accessdate=5 August 2020 |date=5 August 2020}}</ref> The ship ] overnight.<ref>{{cite tweet |user=cedar_news |number=1290963829401292801 |date=5 August 2020 |title=غرق الباخرة السياحية |language=ar }}with video</ref><ref name="CIN">{{cite news |title=Orient Queen Sinks in Beirut, Two Crew Reported Dead |url=https://www.cruiseindustrynews.com/cruise-news/23337-orient-queen-sinks-in-beirut-two-crew-reported-dead.html |accessdate=5 August 2020 |work=Cruise Industry News |date=5 August 2020 }}</ref> | |||
{{external media|image1= The crater is the water-filled area in the left foreground.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.mehrnews.com/photo/4993812/حجم-خسارت-انفجار-مهیب-در-بندر-بیروت|title=حجم خسارت انفجار مهیب در بندر بیروت|date=9 August 2020|website=خبرگزاری مهر | اخبار ایران و جهان | Mehr News Agency|access-date=10 August 2020|archive-date=10 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200810034440/https://www.mehrnews.com/photo/4993812/%D8%AD%D8%AC%D9%85-%D8%AE%D8%B3%D8%A7%D8%B1%D8%AA-%D8%A7%D9%86%D9%81%D8%AC%D8%A7%D8%B1-%D9%85%D9%87%DB%8C%D8%A8-%D8%AF%D8%B1-%D8%A8%D9%86%D8%AF%D8%B1-%D8%A8%DB%8C%D8%B1%D9%88%D8%AA|url-status=live}}</ref>}} | |||
The ] ] ], which participated in the ], was also damaged.<ref name=":2" /><ref name="auto" /> The livestock carrier {{MV|Jouri|1999|2}} was close to the site of the explosion; her ] stopped broadcasting at the time of the explosion. The ] ''Mero Star'' was severely damaged. The cargo ship ''Raouf H'' was closest to the site of the explosion.<ref name="OE-Beirut" /><ref name="Fleetmon30513">{{cite web |url=https://www.fleetmon.com/maritime-news/2020/30513/beirut-port-explosion-close-proximity-witness-vide/ |title=Beirut port explosion mystery solved? UPDATES: 3 ships disappeared. VIDEO |first=Mikhail |last=Voychenko |publisher=Fleetmon |date=4 August 2020 |accessdate=5 August 2020 }}</ref> | |||
The ] tanker ship ''Amadeo{{nbsp}}II'', being used as a ] at the port, was nearest to the explosion, which deposited the mangled remains of the ship on a nearby quay. The ship's crew died in the explosion.<ref name="Washington Post 11082020">{{cite news |last1=Dadouch |first1=Sarah |title=At Beirut's shattered port, a crater more than 15 yards deep and small signs of previous lives |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/at-beiruts-shattered-port-a-crater-nearly-50-yards-deep-and-small-signs-of-previous-lives/2020/08/11/9285597c-d8fc-11ea-a788-2ce86ce81129_story.html |access-date=3 October 2020 |newspaper=] |date=11 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201003145607/https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/at-beiruts-shattered-port-a-crater-nearly-50-yards-deep-and-small-signs-of-previous-lives/2020/08/11/9285597c-d8fc-11ea-a788-2ce86ce81129_story.html |archive-date=3 October 2020 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://report.az/en/other-countries/beirut-blast-149-killed-more-than-5000-injured/ |title=Beirut explosion 149 killed, more than 5000 injured |website=Report News Agency |date=7 August 2020 |access-date=7 August 2020 |archive-date=22 September 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200922021037/https://report.az/en/other-countries/beirut-blast-149-killed-more-than-5000-injured/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.marinetraffic.com/en/ais/details/ships/shipid:676417/mmsi:450557000/imo:7423990/vessel:AMADEO_II |title=AMADEO II |website=Marine Traffic |date=7 August 2020 |access-date=7 August 2020 |archive-date=22 September 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160922033919/http://www.marinetraffic.com/en/ais/details/ships/shipid:676417/mmsi:450557000/imo:7423990/vessel:AMADEO_II |url-status=live }}</ref> Two large ]s, ''Abou Karim{{nbsp}}I'' and ''Abou Karim{{nbsp}}III'', laid up at the end of Berth 09, very close to Warehouse 12, were heavily damaged. ''Abou Karim{{nbsp}}I'' became unstable, keeled over onto the adjacent ''Abou Karim{{nbsp}}III'' and shortly afterwards capsized.<ref name="IHS-18082020" /><ref>{{cite news |title=Lebanese army finds more explosive chemicals outside Beirut port after huge blast |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-lebanon-crisis-blast-chemicals/lebanese-army-finds-more-explosive-chemicals-outside-beirut-port-after-huge-blast-idUSKBN25U2FK |access-date=3 October 2020 |work=Reuters |date=3 September 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201003133350/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-lebanon-crisis-blast-chemicals/lebanese-army-finds-more-explosive-chemicals-outside-beirut-port-after-huge-blast-idUSKBN25U2FK |archive-date=3 October 2020 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The livestock carrier ''Jouri'' and the ]s ''Mero Star'' and ''Raouf H'' were also close to the blast and suffered serious damage; ] from these ships stopped broadcasting at the time of the explosion.<ref name="IHS-18082020" /><ref name="Fleetmon30513">{{cite web |url=https://www.fleetmon.com/maritime-news/2020/30513/beirut-port-explosion-close-proximity-witness-vide/ |title=Beirut port explosion mystery solved? UPDATES: 3 ships disappeared. VIDEO |first=Mikhail |last=Voychenko |publisher=Fleetmon |date=4 August 2020 |access-date=5 August 2020 |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806012100/https://www.fleetmon.com/maritime-news/2020/30513/beirut-port-explosion-close-proximity-witness-vide/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="OE-Beirut" /> | |||
==Arrests== | |||
Lebanese authorities have placed Beirut port officials responsible for storage and security under ], overseen by the ], pending an investigation into the explosions.<ref name="BBC-53664184">{{cite web |title=Beirut explosion: Updates after blast kills at least 100 people |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/live/world-middle-east-53664184 |publisher=BBC News |accessdate=5 August 2020 }}</ref> | |||
]'s offices in Beirut were destroyed.<ref name=OE-Hapag>{{cite web |url=https://www.offshore-energy.biz/hapag-lloyds-beirut-office-completely-destroyed-staff-safe/ |title=Hapag-Lloyd's Beirut office completely destroyed, staff safe |first=Jasmina |last=Ovcina |date=6 August 2020 |publisher=Offshore Energy |access-date=6 August 2020 |archive-date=8 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200808091659/https://www.offshore-energy.biz/hapag-lloyds-beirut-office-completely-destroyed-staff-safe/ |url-status=live }}</ref> ]'s offices, located a few hundred meters away from the site of the explosion, were severely damaged. One employee died and two were severely injured.<ref name="cmacgm">{{cite web|url=https://www.cma-cgm.com/news/3238/beirut-explosions-the-cma-cgm-group-expresses-deepest-emotion-and-solidarity-towards-its-on-site-staff-and-all-of-the-lebanese-people|title=Beirut Explosions: The CMA CGM Group expresses deepest emotion and solidarity towards its on-site staff and all of the Lebanese people|website=CMA-CGM|archive-date=10 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200810123727/https://www.cma-cgm.com/news/3238/beirut-explosions-the-cma-cgm-group-expresses-deepest-emotion-and-solidarity-towards-its-on-site-staff-and-all-of-the-lebanese-people }}</ref><ref name="cmacgm.nytimes">{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/reuters/2020/08/06/world/europe/06reuters-lebanon-security-blast-cmacgm.html|title=Shipping Group CMA CGM Says Missing Beirut Staff Member Died|date=6 August 2020|via=NYTimes.com}} {{Dead link|date=October 2020}}</ref> | |||
===Airport=== | |||
], the city's main airport, about {{convert|10|km|mi|sigfig=1|abbr=on}} from the site of the blast, sustained moderate damage to the terminal buildings during the explosion.<ref>{{cite web|title=Beirut airport damaged in the explosion, but flights continue|url=https://www.thenational.ae/lifestyle/travel/beirut-airport-damaged-in-explosion-but-flights-continue-1.1059310|access-date=6 August 2020|website=The National|date=6 August 2020|archive-date=30 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200930070140/https://www.thenational.ae/lifestyle/travel/beirut-airport-damaged-in-explosion-but-flights-continue-1.1059310|url-status=live}}</ref> Doors and windows were destroyed, and ceiling tiles were shaken loose by the shockwave, severing electrical wires. Despite the damage, flights continued. | |||
=== Subsequent collapses === | |||
In July 2022, grains remaining in the silo caught fire due to a combination of fermentation and summer heat. On 31 July, the northern part of the silo collapsed. Two further collapses occurred in August.<ref name="BBC-62644757">{{cite news |title=Further part of Beirut grain silos collapses |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/world-middle-east-62644757 |publisher=] |access-date=25 August 2022 |archive-date=24 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220824122710/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/world-middle-east-62644757 |url-status=live }}</ref> The government had ordered the demolition of the silos in April 2022, but families of blast victims objected, saying it should be preserved as a memorial site.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jul/31/grain-silos-2020-beirut-port-explosion-collapse-fire|title=Silos damaged in 2020 Beirut port explosion partly collapse after fire|access-date=31 July 2022|website=The Guardian|date=31 July 2022|archive-date=12 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230912063957/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jul/31/grain-silos-2020-beirut-port-explosion-collapse-fire|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
==Investigation== | |||
The government formed an investigative committee led by ] ], which announced it would submit its findings to the ] by 11 August 2020. The committee includes the justice, interior and defence ministers, and the head of the top four security agencies: the ], ], ], and ].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Azhari |first1=Timour |title=Lebanese officials deflect blame as anger grows over Beirut blast |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/anger-rises-lebanon-investigation-probes-beirut-explosion-200805191032840.html |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=7 August 2020 |date=6 August 2020 |archive-date=21 September 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200921042915/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/anger-rises-lebanon-investigation-probes-beirut-explosion-200805191032840.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The investigation was to examine whether the explosion was an accident or due to negligence, and if it was caused by a bomb or another external interference.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Georgy |first1=Michael |last2=Francis |first2=Ellen |title=Lebanon sees possible 'external interference' in port blast |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-lebanon-security-blast/lebanon-sees-possible-external-interference-in-blast-idUSKCN2531F9 |website=Reuters |access-date=7 August 2020 |date=7 August 2020 |archive-date=7 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807152109/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-lebanon-security-blast/lebanon-sees-possible-external-interference-in-blast-idUSKCN2531F9 |url-status=live }}</ref> ] ] rejected calls for an international probe despite demands from world leaders.<ref>{{cite web |title=Lebanon president rejects calls for international blast probe |url=https://www.arabnews.com/node/1715991/middle-east |website=Arab News |access-date=7 August 2020 |date=7 August 2020 |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204074947/https://www.arabnews.com/node/1715991/middle-east |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
On 5 August, the Council agreed to place sixteen Beirut port officials who had overseen storage and security since 2014 under ], overseen by the army, pending the investigation into the explosions.<ref>{{cite web |title=Lebanon to place Beirut port officials under house arrest: sources |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-lebanon-security-blast-port/lebanon-to-place-beirut-port-officials-under-house-arrest-sources-idUSKCN25121I |website=Reuters |access-date=7 August 2020 |date=5 August 2020 |archive-date=7 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807105051/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-lebanon-security-blast-port/lebanon-to-place-beirut-port-officials-under-house-arrest-sources-idUSKCN25121I |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Beirut port manager among 16 held in blast probe, judicial source says |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/uk-lebanon-security-blast-detentions/beirut-port-manager-among-16-held-in-blast-probe-judicial-source-says-idUKKCN2522YJ |website=Reuters |access-date=7 August 2020 |date=7 August 2020 |archive-date=29 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201029032318/https://www.reuters.com/article/uk-lebanon-security-blast-detentions/beirut-port-manager-among-16-held-in-blast-probe-judicial-source-says-idUKKCN2522YJ |url-status=live }}</ref> In addition, the general manager of the port, Hassan Koraytem, and the former director general of Lebanon's customs authority, Shafiq Merhi, were arrested.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.the961.com/16-arrested-beirut-explosion-investigation/ |title=Beirut Port Manager & 15 Others Were Just Arrested |website=the961.com |date=7 August 2020 |access-date=18 August 2020 |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204074946/https://www.the961.com/16-arrested-beirut-explosion-investigation/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Later, on 17 August, the incumbent director-general of Lebanon's customs authority, Badri Daher, was also arrested. Also, former ministers of both finance and public works were due to be interrogated by a judge appointed by the council.<!-- daher was one of the 21 detained earlier --><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/lebanese-customs-chief-arrested-over-beirut-blast-1.5067268 |title=Lebanese customs chief arrested over Beirut blast |website=CTV News |date=17 August 2020 |access-date=17 August 2020 |archive-date=17 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200817233308/https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/lebanese-customs-chief-arrested-over-beirut-blast-1.5067268 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=":1">{{Cite news|last1=Khraiche|first1=Dana|last2=Diab|first2=Youssef|date=17 August 2020|title=Beirut Blast Probe Opens With Arrest Order for Port Customs Head|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-08-17/judge-orders-arrest-of-customs-head-as-beirut-blast-probe-opens|access-date=19 August 2020|newspaper=Bloomberg.com}}</ref> In the meantime, state prosecutor Ghassan Oueidat ordered a travel ban on seven individuals, including Koraytem.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-08-07/lebanese-authorities-arrest-16-beirut-port-blast/12533150?nw=0 |title=Beirut port manager among 16 held in blast probe, judicial source says |website=abc.net |date=7 August 2020 |access-date=18 August 2020 |archive-date=8 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200808142912/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-08-07/lebanese-authorities-arrest-16-beirut-port-blast/12533150?nw=0 |url-status=live }}</ref> While Acting Justice Minister ] unsuccessfully demanded an international investigation into the blast,<ref>{{Cite news|date=14 October 2021|title=Beirut port blast: The tensions around the investigation|language=en-GB|work=]|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-58913864|access-date=16 October 2021|archive-date=16 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211016052757/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-58913864|url-status=live}}</ref> she also noted that "...this case is a chance for the Lebanese judiciary to prove they can do their jobs and win back the confidence of the people".<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/lebanon-judiciary-handle-beirut-explosion-probe-minister-200812154620945.html |title=Lebanon judiciary can handle Beirut explosion probe: Minister |website=Al Jazeera |date=12 August 2020 |access-date=13 September 2020 |archive-date=21 September 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200921044620/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/lebanon-judiciary-handle-beirut-explosion-probe-minister-200812154620945.html |url-status=live }}</ref> On 19 August, a Lebanon judge ordered the arrests of more suspects over the explosion, making the total number of accused 25.<ref name=":1" /><ref>{{cite web|last=Khodr|first=Zeina|title=Lebanon judge orders more arrests over Beirut explosion|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/lebanon-judge-arrests-beirut-blast-200819140809352.html|access-date=19 August 2020|website=Al Jazeera|archive-date=20 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200820040209/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/lebanon-judge-arrests-beirut-blast-200819140809352.html|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
The Lebanese judge ],<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thenational.ae/world/mena/little-known-lebanese-judge-fadi-sawan-leads-probe-into-beirut-blast-1.1067397 |title=Little-known Lebanese judge Fadi Sawan leads probe into Beirut blast |website=The National |date=23 August 2020 |access-date=13 September 2020 |archive-date=24 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200824092329/https://www.thenational.ae/world/mena/little-known-lebanese-judge-fadi-sawan-leads-probe-into-beirut-blast-1.1067397 |url-status=live }}</ref> who has been responsible for the investigation, summoned former Minister of Transportation and Public Works ], Labor Ministers ], Youssef Fenianos, and ], General Director of the ] Tony Saliba, Director General of Lebanon's Land and Maritime Transport division, Abdul-Hafeez Al-Qaisi, and General Director of General Security, Major General ].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.shafaaq.com/en/World/Beirut-Blast-Investigations-with-former-and-current-ministers |title=Beirut Blast: Investigations with former and current ministers |website=shafaaq.com |date=13 August 2020 |access-date=13 September 2020 |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073554/https://shafaq.com/en/World/Beirut-Blast-Investigations-with-former-and-current-ministers |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.arabnews.com/node/1719031/middle-east |title=Beirut emergency law sparks fears of army crackdown |website=Arab News |date=13 August 2020 |access-date=13 September 2020 |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204074952/https://www.arabnews.com/node/1719031/middle-east |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
In September, Lebanon's state prosecution asked ] to ] two Russian citizens, the captain and the owner of ''Rhosus'', as its cargo of ammonium nitrate was blamed for the explosion.<ref>{{cite news |title=Lebanon Asks Interpol to Arrest Russian Ship Captain, Owner Over Port Explosion |url=https://www.usnews.com/news/world/articles/2020-10-01/lebanon-asks-interpol-to-arrest-russian-ship-captain-owner-over-port-explosion |access-date=2 October 2020 |work=U.S.News |agency=Reuters |date=1 October 2020 |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073637/https://www.usnews.com/news/world/articles/2020-10-01/lebanon-asks-interpol-to-arrest-russian-ship-captain-owner-over-port-explosion |url-status=live }}</ref> In January 2021, Interpol issued ]{{efn|A Red Notice seeks the location and arrest of wanted persons wanted for prosecution or to serve a sentence.<ref>{{cite web |title=About Notices |url=https://www.interpol.int/en/How-we-work/Notices/About-Notices |publisher=Interpol |access-date=13 January 2021 |location=Lyon, France |archive-date=15 February 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200215023526/https://www.interpol.int/en/How-we-work/Notices/About-Notices |url-status=live }}</ref>}} against the two ]ns as well as a ] man.<ref>{{cite news |title=Interpol issues notices over Lebanon's massive port blast |url=https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/interpol-issues-notices-lebanons-massive-port-blast-75195422 |access-date=13 January 2021 |work=ABC News |agency=Associated Press |date=12 January 2021 |archive-date=12 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210112125921/https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/interpol-issues-notices-lebanons-massive-port-blast-75195422 |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
In December 2020, Lebanon's outgoing Prime Minister Diab and three former ministers were charged with negligence over the Beirut port explosion. The former ministers were former finance minister ], Ghazi Zeiter, and Youssef Fenianos, both former ministers of public works. Zeitar was transport and public works minister in 2014, followed by Fenianos in 2016, who held the job until the beginning of 2020. Khalil was finance minister in 2014, 2016, and until 2020.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-12-11/lebanon-prime-minister-charged-over-beirut-port-blast/12973068|title=Lebanon's outgoing Prime Minister charged with negligence over Beirut port explosion|newspaper=ABC News|date=10 December 2020|via=www.abc.net.au|access-date=14 March 2021|archive-date=29 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201229025953/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-12-11/lebanon-prime-minister-charged-over-beirut-port-blast/12973068|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
On 28 January 2021, Syrian-Russian businessman ] denied any links to the Beirut explosion. He told ] he did not know anything about a company linked to the process of buying a shipment of chemicals that exploded. In an interview with Reuters at his home in ], Haswani said that he had resorted to the Cypriot company Interstatus to register his company, which is the same agent that registered the Savaro company, and that the agent company had moved the registration site of the two companies to the same address on the same day. However, Haswani said that he did not know anything about Savaro and that any links between it and his company are just a coincidence because the two companies have the same agent. As stated in previous reports, Reuters was unable to determine whether Haswani had anything to do with Savaro. Haswani said, "I don't know what other companies are registered by this Cypriot company, five or three or 70 or more... It is a fabricated media whirlwind. We don't know Savaro and we hadn't heard about them before this." Interstatus did not respond to a request for comment. Marina Psyllou, the director of the "Interstatus" company, was listed in the registration documents of the company (Savaro) as the only owner and director of the company, but she denied that she was the real manager of the company. She told Reuters in mid-January 2021 that the beneficial owner of the company was another person, whom she refused to identify. She added that Savaro was a dormant company that had never conducted business. Haswani said that he was not contacted by any investigators from Lebanon or any other country regarding the explosion and that he will soon work to file a legal case in ] against media reports linking him to the explosion. He continued, "I am living my life normally and laughing because I am someone who knows well that I have nothing to do with this matter at all. Why would I worry?"<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-lebanon-crisis-blast-idUSKBN29X0WJ|title=Syrian businessman Haswani denies links to Beirut blast chemicals|newspaper=Reuters|date=28 January 2021|access-date=1 May 2021|archive-date=1 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210501080039/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-lebanon-crisis-blast-idUSKBN29X0WJ|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
On 15 April 2021, six detained people were released, including two officers, although they were not allowed to travel out of Lebanon.<ref>{{cite web|date=15 April 2021|title=Judge orders release of 6 detained over Lebanon port blast|url=https://arab.news/p3r6y|access-date=16 April 2021|website=Arab News|language=en}}</ref> | |||
In September 2021, ] published an investigation, that linked Savaro Limited to a Ukrainian company trading chemicals, directed by Ukrainian citizen Volodymyr Verbonol. The report also mentions that only 20% of the nitrate originally stored in the warehouse was actually left when it exploded, raising questions about what happened with the rest.<ref>{{cite web |author1=Aubrey Belford |author2=Yanina Korniienko |author3=Isobel Koshiw |author4=Feras Hatoum |author5=Stelios Orphanides |title=Ownership of Chemicals that Exploded at Beirut Port Traces Back to Ukraine|url=https://www.occrp.org/en/investigations/ownership-of-chemicals-that-exploded-at-beirut-port-traces-back-to-ukraine|access-date=15 September 2021|website=OCCRP|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915002350/https://www.occrp.org/en/investigations/ownership-of-chemicals-that-exploded-at-beirut-port-traces-back-to-ukraine|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
On 14 October 2021, six people were killed and at least 30 injured in a ] during protests by members of the Shia ] and ] outside the Justice Palace, which demanded an end to the investigations led by Judge ], for they deemed him as too much centered on their political allies.<ref>{{cite web|last=Chulov|first=Martin|date=14 October 2021|title=Six dead as Beirut gripped by worst street violence in 13 years|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/oct/14/gunfire-beirut-protest-judge-leading-port-blast-inquiry|url-status=live|access-date=16 October 2021|website=]|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211014095405/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/oct/14/gunfire-beirut-protest-judge-leading-port-blast-inquiry |archive-date=14 October 2021 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Beirut shooting: Six killed and 30 injured in protests against Lebanon blast judge|url=https://www.thenationalnews.com/mena/2021/10/14/gunfire-in-beirut-as-hezbollah-supporters-protest-against-blast-investigation/|access-date=14 October 2021|website=The National|date=14 October 2021|archive-date=14 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211014090923/https://www.thenationalnews.com/mena/2021/10/14/gunfire-in-beirut-as-hezbollah-supporters-protest-against-blast-investigation/|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
On 21 November 2021, the ] reported that legal groups representing victims of the blast had sent letters on three occasions to ] ] requesting more information from UNIFIL, but had received no acknowledgment from the UN.<ref>{{Cite news|date=22 November 2021|title=Beirut blast: UN ignored plea for port disaster evidence|language=en-GB|work=BBC News|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-59290301|access-date=22 November 2021|archive-date=22 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211122001624/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-59290301|url-status=live}}</ref> A day later, the Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdallah Bouhabib announced that Lebanon received satellite images from Russia of the port from the day of the blast in 2020. These were the first official images made available from any foreign government.<ref>{{cite news|title=Lebanon receives Beirut blast satellite images from Russia|url=https://apnews.com/article/europe-middle-east-russia-lebanon-moscow-2b1acc60bdeabdfed620a7db3b043de2|website=AP NEWS|date=November 22, 2021|access-date=22 August 2022|archive-date=23 August 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220823140225/https://apnews.com/article/europe-middle-east-russia-lebanon-moscow-2b1acc60bdeabdfed620a7db3b043de2|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
Throughout 2022, the investigation stalled. As of 8 June, parliamentary immunity, as well as outstanding complaints and other procedural roadblocks initiated by two members of Parliament and former ministers (namely, Ali Hassan Khalil and Ghazi Zaiter), continued to prevent significant progress in the case.<ref>{{cite news|title=Lebanon: Authorities should lift immunity and allow interrogation of MPs into the Beirut port explosion|url=https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2022/06/lebanon-authorities-should-lift-immunity-and-allow-interrogation-of-mps-into-the-beirut-port-explosion/|newspaper=amnesty international|access-date=20 June 2022|archive-date=20 June 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220620032952/https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2022/06/lebanon-authorities-should-lift-immunity-and-allow-interrogation-of-mps-into-the-beirut-port-explosion/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Lebanese officials busy themselves with border dispute discussions against backdrop of port blast anger|url=https://www.arabnews.com/node/2022516/middle-east|newspaper=arab news|access-date=20 June 2022|archive-date=20 June 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220620032952/https://www.arabnews.com/node/2022516/middle-east|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
==Relief operations== | ==Relief operations== | ||
The ] said that every available ambulance from ], ], and ] was being dispatched to Beirut to help patients.<ref name=":1" /> According to the agency, a total of 75 ambulances and 375 medics were activated in response to the explosions.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/lebanon-struck-by-blast-at-beirut-port-11596556605|title=Beirut Explosion Caused by Fire Kills Dozens, Injures Thousands|website=The Wall Street Journal|last1=Osseiran|first1=Nazih|last2=Malsin|first2=Jared|date=4 August 2020|accessdate=4 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804160009/https://www.wsj.com/articles/lebanon-struck-by-blast-at-beirut-port-11596556605|archive-date=4 August 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> Lebanese President ] said that the government would make up to 100{{nbsp}}billion ] (]66{{nbsp}}million) in aid available to support recovery operations.<ref name="BBC-53656220" /> The ride-sharing app ] offered free rides to and from hospitals and blood donation centers to anyone willing to donate blood.<ref>{{Cite web|last=CNN|first=Carbel Mallo|last2=|date=4 August 2020|title=Hundreds reported missing by family members, Health Minister says|url=https://edition.cnn.com/middleeast/live-news/lebanon-beirut-explosion-live-updates-dle-intl/h_6f522f1a670b7600c8a868a267fb62fb|url-status=live|archive-url=|archive-date=|access-date=5 August 2020|website=CNN|publisher=CNN|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=|first=|date=|title=URGENT: All blood types needed in all hospitals and blood donation centers in Beirut. Use promocode DONATEBLOOD for a free ride to and from the hospital or the blood donations center.|url=https://twitter.com/careemleb/status/1290721354925453312|url-status=live|archive-url=|archive-date=|access-date=5 August 2020|website=Twitter|language=en}}</ref> | |||
], Medical Services supply]] | |||
Health Minister {{ill|Hamad Hasan|ar|حمد علي حسن}}{{efn|Hamad Hasan ({{lang|ar|حمد علي حسن}}) transliteration per official biography at https://www.moph.gov.lb/en/Pages/9/10741/minister-biography}} requested that international aid be sent to Lebanon;<ref name="azhari" /> several countries responded to that request.{{efn|Countries that have sent or formally announced the sending of medical aid include Armenia,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://armenpress.am/eng/news/1024152.html |title=Armenia to send humanitarian aid to Lebanon{{Snd}} PM's spokesperson |website=Armenpress |date=5 August 2020 }}</ref> Australia,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/australia-sends-2-million-in-aid-to-lebanon-after-beirut-blast-20200805-p55iyv.html |title=Australia sends $2 million in aid to Lebanon after Beirut blast |last=Han |first=Esther |date=2020-08-05 |df=dmy |website=The Sydney Morning Herald |access-date=5 August 2020}}</ref> Azerbaijan,<ref name="azerbaijan">{{Cite news |url=https://report.az/xarici-siyaset/azerbaycan-livana-maliyye-yardimi-gosterecek/ |title=Azərbaycan Livana maliyyə yardımı göstərəcək |language=az |work=] |date=5 August 2020 |access-date=5 August 2020 }}</ref> Canada,<ref name="canada5M">{{cite tweet| user=FP_Champagne| number=1291139313485389827| author=]| title=Following the tragic #BeirutExplosion, 🇨🇦 is providing an initial $5M in humanitarian assist. for the people of #Lebanon. $1.5M will go immediately to partners incl. @redcrossLebanon, via @redcrosscanada, to help meet urgent needs, like food, shelter & emergency medical services.| date=5 August 2020}}</ref> France,<ref>{{cite news|url=http://nna-leb.gov.lb/en/show-news/118515/Elysee-France-sends-medical-team-equipment-to-assist-Lebanon|title=Elysee: France Sends Medical Team, Equipment to Assist Lebanon|date=5 August 2020|access-date=5 August 2020|work=Lebanese National News Agency}}</ref> Iran,<ref>{{cite news|url=http://nna-leb.gov.lb/en/show-news/118526/Iranian-Embassy-We-stand-by-Lebanon-aid-plane-to-arrive-today|title=Iranian Embassy: We Stand by Lebanon, Aid Plane to Arrive Today|date=5 August 2020|access-date=5 August 2020|work=Lebanese National News Agency}}</ref> Iraq,<ref name=apaidlist>{{cite web |url=https://apnews.com/12ea65fee7606260167af25156a7cacc |title=The Latest: Lebanese government declares two-week emergency |website=AP News |date=5 August 2020 }}</ref> Jordan,<ref name="AJE aid">{{cite news|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/strong-lebanon-global-support-deadly-beirut-blast-200805100421240.html|title='Stay strong, Lebanon': Global support over deadly Beirut blast|date=5 August 2020|access-date=5 August 2020|work=Al Jazeera English}}</ref> Kuwait,<ref>{{cite news|url=http://nna-leb.gov.lb/en/show-news/118514/Aid-plane-from-Kuwait-lands-in-Beirut|title=Aid Plane from Kuwait Lands in Beirut|date=5 August 2020|access-date=5 August 2020|work=Lebanese National News Agency}}</ref> Norway,<ref name=apaidlist/> Qatar,<ref name="AJE aid" /> Russia,<ref name=apaidlist/> Turkey,<ref name=apaidlist/> the UAE,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.arnnewscentre.ae/news/uae/uae-sends-emergency-medical-aid-to-lebanon/ |title=UAE sends emergency medical aid to Lebanon |website=ARN News Agency |date=5 August 2020 }}</ref> and Syria,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.jpnews-sy.com/ar/news.php?id=190561|title=Syria sends ambulances to rescue people injured in Beirut|website=JPnews-Sy |date=5 August 2020 }}</ref> while the Czech Republic<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://news.expats.cz/weekly-czech-news/czech-republic-to-send-a-search-and-rescue-team-to-beirut-following-tuesdays-explosion/|title=Czech Republic to send a search and rescue team to Beirut following Tuesday's explosion |date=5 August 2020|website=Expats.cz Latest News & Articles |accessdate=5 August 2020}}</ref>, Germany<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.dw.com/en/beirut-explosion-live-updates-half-of-city-affected-by-damage/a-54443532 |title= Beirut explosion live updates: Half of city affected by damage|author=<!--Not stated--> |date=2020-08-05 |df=dmy |website=Deutsche Welle |access-date=6 August 2020 |quote=Germany has dispatched search and rescue specialists to Lebanon to assist seeking survivors trapped beneath rubble of the explosion.}}</ref>, Greece<ref>{{cite news |last=Claus |first=Patricia |date=2020-08-05 |df=dmy |title=Greece Sends Rescue Team, Equipment to Beirut After Blast |url=https://greece.greekreporter.com/2020/08/05/greece-sends-rescue-team-equipment-to-beirut-after-blast/ |work=Greek Reporter |access-date=5 August 2020}}</ref>, Netherlands<ref name="dutchteam">{{cite news |url=https://www.nu.nl/buitenland/6068796/nederland-stuurt-reddingsteam-van-67-specialisten-naar-beiroet.html |access-date=5 August 2020 |date=5 August 2020 |title=Nederland stuurt reddingsteam van 67 specialisten naar Beiroet |language=nl}}</ref> and Russia<ref>{{cite news |title=The Latest: Russia sends doctors, equipment to Lebanon |url=https://www.startribune.com/the-latest-lebanese-pm-appeals-for-help-after-beirut-blast/572012522/ |work=Star Tribune |date=5 August 2020}}</ref> have sent rescue teams.<ref>{{Cite web|last=John|first=Tara|last2=Macaya|first2=Melissa|last3=Hayes|first3=Mike|last4=Rocha|first4=Veronica|last5=Wagner|first5=Meg|last6=Berlinger|first6=Joshua|last7=Renton|first7=Adam|last8=Rahim|first8=Zamira|date=4 August 2020|title=Live updates: Beirut explosion rocks Lebanon's capital city|url=https://www.cnn.com/middleeast/live-news/lebanon-beirut-explosion-live-updates-dle-intl/index.html|url-status=live|archive-url=|archive-date=|accessdate=5 August 2020|website=CNN}}</ref>|name=|group=}} | |||
] team heading to Beirut on {{dts|2020.08.05|format=dm}}]] | |||
==European relief== | |||
===Italy=== | |||
Italy has sent two Air Force C130 aircraft that will transport eight tons of medical equipment and fire and defense teams specializing in NBCR (nuclear - biological - chemical - radiological) environments to Lebanon and experts in assessing the damage to buildings involved. | |||
The operation, which falls within the scope of the European Civil Protection Mechanism, was ordered by the Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, following the request for international assistance made by the Lebanese authorities to the European Commission.<ref>{{cite news |title=Esplosione a Beirut, l'Italia invia due aerei con aiuti umanitari |url=https://www.tgcom24.mediaset.it/mondo/esplosioni-a-beirut-litalia-invia-due-aerei-con-aiuti-umanitari_21545216-202002a.shtml |accessdate=6 August 2020 |agency=tgcom24.mediaset.it |publisher=tgcom24.mediaset.it |date=6 August 2020}}</ref> | |||
The ] said every available ambulance from ], ], and ] was being dispatched to Beirut to help patients.<ref name="Hubbard" /> According to the agency, a total of 75 ambulances and 375 medics were activated in response to the explosions.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/lebanon-struck-by-blast-at-beirut-port-11596556605|title=Beirut Explosion Caused by Fire Kills Dozens, Injures Thousands|website=The Wall Street Journal|last1=Osseiran|first1=Nazih|last2=Malsin|first2=Jared|date=4 August 2020|access-date=4 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804160009/https://www.wsj.com/articles/lebanon-struck-by-blast-at-beirut-port-11596556605|archive-date=4 August 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> ] ] said the government would make up to 100{{nbsp}}billion ] (US$66{{nbsp}}million) in aid available to support recovery operations.<ref name="BBC-53656220" /> The ride-sharing app ] offered free rides to and from hospitals and blood donation centers to anyone willing to donate blood.<ref>{{cite web|author=Carbel Mallo|date=4 August 2020 |title=Hundreds reported missing by family members, Health Minister says |url=https://edition.cnn.com/middleeast/live-news/lebanon-beirut-explosion-live-updates-dle-intl/h_6f522f1a670b7600c8a868a267fb62fb |url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806060547/https://edition.cnn.com/middleeast/live-news/lebanon-beirut-explosion-live-updates-dle-intl/h_6f522f1a670b7600c8a868a267fb62fb |archive-date=6 August 2020|access-date=5 August 2020 |publisher=CNN}}</ref><ref>{{cite tweet |user=careemleb |number=1290721354925453312 |date=4 August 2020 |title=URGENT: All blood types needed in all hospitals and blood donation centers in Beirut. Use promocode DONATEBLOOD for a free ride to and from the hospital or the blood donations center.|access-date=5 August 2020 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804190013/https://twitter.com/CareemLEB/status/1290721354925453312 |archive-date=4 August 2020}}</ref> Volunteers removed debris while local business owners offered to repair damaged buildings for free in the absence of a state-sponsored cleanup operation.<ref>{{cite news |title=Beirut blast: Lebanese volunteers band together to clean up, help residents |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/world/middle-east/beirut-blast-state-what-state-lebanese-together-in-solidarity-and-rage |website=The Straits Times |access-date=6 August 2020 |date=6 August 2020 |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073556/https://www.straitstimes.com/world/middle-east/beirut-blast-state-what-state-lebanese-together-in-solidarity-and-rage |url-status=live }}</ref> A temporary hospital was established in the city by the ].<ref>{{cite news |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line--> |url=https://ifpnews.com/irans-red-crescent-erects-field-hospital-in-lebanon |date=9 August 2020 |title=Iran's Red Crescent Erects Field Hospital in Lebanon |work=Iran Front Page |access-date=11 August 2020 |archive-date=19 September 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200919224213/https://ifpnews.com/irans-red-crescent-erects-field-hospital-in-lebanon |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
==Reactions== | |||
===Domestic=== | |||
], the ], announced that 5 August 2020, the day after the explosions, would be a national day of mourning.<ref>{{cite web |title=Lebanon's Prime Minister Hassan Diab declares national day of mourning Wednesday, after Beirut blast |url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2020/Aug-04/509854-lebanons-prime-minister-hassan-diab-declares-national-day-of-mourning-wednesday-after-beirut.ashx |website=The Daily Star |accessdate=4 August 2020 |date=4 August 2020}}</ref> President Aoun stated that the government would provide support to displaced people, and the Ministry of Health would meet the expense of treatment for the wounded.<ref name="nbcnews">{{cite web |last1=Cheeseman |first1=Abbie |last2=Suliman |first2=Adela |last3=Mulligan |first3=Matthew |title=Massive explosion rocks Beirut, causing injuries and widespread damage |url=https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/large-explosion-rocks-port-area-beirut-cause-unclear-n1235767 |website=NBC News |accessdate=4 August 2020 |date=4 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804160912/https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/large-explosion-rocks-port-area-beirut-cause-unclear-n1235767 |archive-date=4 August 2020 |url-status=live }}</ref> ], the ], stated that he arrived at the scene to search for firefighters who were on the site attempting to control the fire that was raging prior to the second explosion. He broke down in tears on television, calling the event "a national catastrophe".<ref name=":1" /> On the day of the explosion, ] offered "deepest condolences over the national tragedy" and stated that the crisis required "a national stand by all Lebanese people".<ref>{{cite news|author=<!--Not in source; presumably Al-Manar staff-->|title=Hezbollah Says Beirut Blasts 'National Tragedy', Sayyed Nasrallah Delays Speech|date=4 August 2020|url=https://english.almanar.com.lb/1104776|accessdate=4 August 2020|work=]}}</ref> The day after, ], who heads Hezbollah ], also called for "positive cooperation" in order to ascertain the reasons for the disaster and to ensure justice.<ref>{{cite news|author=<!--Not in source; presumably Al-Manar staff-->|title=Hezbollah MP Urges National Unity in Face of Beirut Calamity|date=5 August 2020|url=https://english.almanar.com.lb/1105832|accessdate=5 August 2020|work=Al-Manar}}</ref> | |||
Health Minister ] requested that international aid be sent to Lebanon;<ref name="azhari" /> a number of countries sent in food, medical supplies, field hospitals, medical workers, and ]s.{{efn|Countries that sent aid or offered to send aid include: Armenia,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://armenpress.am/eng/news/1024152.html |title=Armenia to send humanitarian aid to Lebanon – PM's spokesperson |website=Armenpress |date=5 August 2020 |access-date=5 August 2020 |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073613/https://armenpress.am/eng/news/1024152.html |url-status=live}}</ref> Australia,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/australia-sends-2-million-in-aid-to-lebanon-after-beirut-blast-20200805-p55iyv.html |title=Australia sends $2 million in aid to Lebanon after Beirut blast |last=Han |first=Esther |date=5 August 2020 |website=The Sydney Morning Herald |access-date=5 August 2020 |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073613/https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/australia-sends-2-million-in-aid-to-lebanon-after-beirut-blast-20200805-p55iyv.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Azerbaijan,<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://report.az/xarici-siyaset/azerbaycan-livana-maliyye-yardimi-gosterecek/ |title=Azərbaycan Livana maliyyə yardımı göstərəcək |language=az |work=] |date=5 August 2020 |access-date=5 August 2020 |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073637/https://report.az/xarici-siyaset/veten-muharibesi-amerika-universitetinin-diqqet-merkezinde/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Bangladesh,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.thedailystar.net/country/news/bangladesh-air-force-plane-reaches-beirut-food-and-medical-relief-1942777|title=Bangladesh Air Force plane reaches Beirut with food and medical relief|website=The Daily Star|date=10 August 2020|access-date=12 August 2020|archive-date=4 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073627/https://www.thedailystar.net/country/news/bangladesh-air-force-plane-reaches-beirut-food-and-medical-relief-1942777|url-status=live}}</ref> Brazil,<ref name="APRelief">{{cite web |url=https://apnews.com/12ea65fee7606260167af25156a7cacc |title=The Latest: Lebanese government declares two-week emergency |website=AP News |date=5 August 2020 |access-date=5 August 2020 |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806005514/https://apnews.com/12ea65fee7606260167af25156a7cacc |url-status=live}}</ref> Canada,<ref>{{cite web| url=https://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/trudeau-government-announces-additional-humanitarian-aid-to-lebanon-1.5059009| title=Trudeau government announces additional humanitarian aid to Lebanon| date=10 August 2020| website=ctvnews.ca| access-date=11 August 2020| archive-date=11 August 2020| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200811095754/https://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/trudeau-government-announces-additional-humanitarian-aid-to-lebanon-1.5059009| url-status=live}}</ref> China,<ref>{{cite web|title=China offers emergency humanitarian assistance to Lebanon|url=http://www.chinanews.com/gn/2020/08-07/9258378.shtml|access-date=8 August 2020|website=Chinanews|language=zh|archive-date=17 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200917165117/http://www.chinanews.com/gn/2020/08-07/9258378.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> Cyprus,<ref name="APRelief"/> Czech Republic,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://news.expats.cz/weekly-czech-news/czech-republic-to-send-a-search-and-rescue-team-to-beirut-following-tuesdays-explosion/ |title=Czech Republic to send a search and rescue team to Beirut following Tuesday's explosion |date=5 August 2020 |website=Expats.cz |access-date=5 August 2020 |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806060548/https://news.expats.cz/weekly-czech-news/czech-republic-to-send-a-search-and-rescue-team-to-beirut-following-tuesdays-explosion/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Denmark,<ref>{{cite web|last=Christian|first=W|title=Denmark gives aid to Lebanon following explosion|url=http://cphpost.dk/?p=117314/|access-date=8 August 2020|website=CPH Post|date=6 August 2020|archive-date=21 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201021051511/http://cphpost.dk/?p=117314%2F|url-status=live}}</ref> France,<ref>{{cite news|url=http://nna-leb.gov.lb/en/show-news/118515/Elysee-France-sends-medical-team-equipment-to-assist-Lebanon|title=Elysee: France Sends Medical Team, Equipment to Assist Lebanon|date=5 August 2020|access-date=5 August 2020|work=Lebanese National News Agency|archive-date=4 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073711/http://nna-leb.gov.lb/en/show-news/118515/Elysee-France-sends-medical-team-equipment-to-assist-Lebanon|url-status=live}}</ref> Germany,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.dw.com/en/beirut-explosion-live-updates-half-of-city-affected-by-damage/a-54443532 |title=Beirut explosion live updates: Half of city affected by damage |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=5 August 2020 |website=Deutsche Welle |access-date=6 August 2020 |quote=Germany has dispatched search and rescue specialists to Lebanon to assist seeking survivors trapped beneath rubble of the explosion. |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073608/https://www.dw.com/en/beirut-blast-live-updates-half-of-lebanons-capital-affected-by-damage/a-54443532 |url-status=live}}</ref> Greece,<ref>{{cite news |last=Claus |first=Patricia |date=5 August 2020 |title=Greece Sends Rescue Team, Equipment to Beirut After Blast |url=https://greece.greekreporter.com/2020/08/05/greece-sends-rescue-team-equipment-to-beirut-after-blast/ |work=Greek Reporter |access-date=5 August 2020 |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073609/https://greece.greekreporter.com/2020/08/05/greece-sends-rescue-team-equipment-to-beirut-after-blast/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Hungary,<ref name="APRelief"/> Iran,<ref>{{cite news|url=http://nna-leb.gov.lb/en/show-news/118526/Iranian-Embassy-We-stand-by-Lebanon-aid-plane-to-arrive-today|title=Iranian Embassy: We Stand by Lebanon, Aid Plane to Arrive Today|date=5 August 2020|access-date=5 August 2020|work=Lebanese National News Agency|archive-date=4 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073615/http://nna-leb.gov.lb/en/show-news/118526/Iranian-Embassy-We-stand-by-Lebanon-aid-plane-to-arrive-today|url-status=live}}</ref> Iraq,<ref name="APRelief"/> Israel,<ref name="APRelief"/> Italy,<ref>{{cite news |title=Esplosione a Beirut, l'Italia invia due aerei con aiuti umanitari |language=it |url=https://www.tgcom24.mediaset.it/mondo/esplosioni-a-beirut-litalia-invia-due-aerei-con-aiuti-umanitari_21545216-202002a.shtml |access-date=6 August 2020 |agency=tgcom24.mediaset.it |publisher=tgcom24.mediaset.it |date=6 August 2020 |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073618/https://www.tgcom24.mediaset.it/mondo/esplosioni-a-beirut-litalia-invia-due-aerei-con-aiuti-umanitari_21545216-202002a.shtml |url-status=live }}</ref> Jordan,<ref name="AlJazeeraRelief">{{cite news|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/strong-lebanon-global-support-deadly-beirut-blast-200805100421240.html|title='Stay strong, Lebanon': Global support over deadly Beirut blast|date=5 August 2020|access-date=5 August 2020|work=Al Jazeera English|archive-date=8 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200808140752/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/strong-lebanon-global-support-deadly-beirut-blast-200805100421240.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Kuwait,<ref>{{cite news|url=http://nna-leb.gov.lb/en/show-news/118514/Aid-plane-from-Kuwait-lands-in-Beirut|title=Aid Plane from Kuwait Lands in Beirut|date=5 August 2020|access-date=5 August 2020|work=Lebanese National News Agency|archive-date=4 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073603/http://nna-leb.gov.lb/en/show-news/118514/Aid-plane-from-Kuwait-lands-in-Beirut|url-status=live}}</ref> Morocco,<ref>{{cite web|last=Guerraoui|first=Saad|date=7 August 2020|title=Morocco sends tonnes of emergency aid to Lebanon {{!}} Saad Guerraoui|url=https://middle-east-online.com/en/morocco-sends-tonnes-emergency-aid-lebanon|access-date=10 April 2021|website=Middle East Online|language=en|archive-date=10 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410151907/https://middle-east-online.com/en/morocco-sends-tonnes-emergency-aid-lebanon|url-status=live}}</ref> Netherlands,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.government.nl/latest/news/2020/08/06/dutch-search-and-rescue-team-en-route-to-lebanon |title=Dutch search and rescue team en route to Lebanon |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=5 August 2020 |website=Government.nl |access-date=7 August 2020 |archive-date=7 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807185004/https://www.government.nl/latest/news/2020/08/06/dutch-search-and-rescue-team-en-route-to-lebanon |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.nu.nl/buitenland/6068796/nederland-stuurt-reddingsteam-van-67-specialisten-naar-beiroet.html |access-date=5 August 2020 |date=5 August 2020 |title=Nederland stuurt reddingsteam van 67 specialisten naar Beiroet |language=nl |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073613/https://www.nu.nl/buitenland/6068796/nederland-stuurt-reddingsteam-van-67-specialisten-naar-beiroet.html |url-status=live}}</ref> Norway,<ref name="APRelief"/> Pakistan,<ref>{{cite web |title=Beirut blast: Top Pakistani diplomat speaks with Lebanese counterpart |url=https://www.aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/top-pakistan-diplomat-speaks-with-lebanese-counterpart/1934909 |website=Anadolu Agency |access-date=7 August 2020 |date=7 August 2020 |archive-date=10 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200810145609/https://www.aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/top-pakistan-diplomat-speaks-with-lebanese-counterpart/1934909 |url-status=live }}</ref> Poland,<ref name="APRelief"/> Qatar,<ref name="AlJazeeraRelief"/> Romania,<ref>{{cite news|url=https://actmedia.eu/daily/the-two-romanian-aircraft-with-donations-arrived-in-beirut/88005|title=The two Romanian aircraft with donations arrived in Beirut|newspaper=ACTMedia — Romanian Business News|date=10 August 2020|access-date=10 August 2020|archive-date=1 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201101012010/https://actmedia.eu/daily/the-two-romanian-aircraft-with-donations-arrived-in-beirut/88005|url-status=live}}</ref> Russia,<ref>{{Cite news|date=5 August 2020|title=First Russian flight leaves for Beirut with rescuers, doctors and hospital aboard|url=https://tass.com/society/1186163|access-date=7 August 2020|publisher=]|archive-date=6 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806210232/https://tass.com/society/1186163|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Russian teams search rubble from Beirut explosion |url=https://www.euronews.com/2020/08/07/russian-teams-search-rubble-from-beirut-explosion |work=Euronews |date=7 August 2020 |access-date=7 August 2020 |archive-date=10 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200810050556/https://www.euronews.com/2020/08/07/russian-teams-search-rubble-from-beirut-explosion |url-status=live}}</ref> Saudi Arabia,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/gulf/2020/08/07/Beirut-explosion-Saudi-Arabia-opens-air-bridge-to-Lebanon-first-two-aid-planes-sent |title=Beirut explosion: Saudi Arabia opens air bridge to Lebanon, first two aid planes sent |website=Al Arabiya |date=7 August 2020 |access-date=7 August 2020 |archive-date=9 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200809114515/https://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/gulf/2020/08/07/Beirut-explosion-Saudi-Arabia-opens-air-bridge-to-Lebanon-first-two-aid-planes-sent |url-status=live }}</ref> Syria,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.jpnews-sy.com/ar/news.php?id=190561|title=Syria sends ambulances to rescue people injured in Beirut|website=JPnews-Sy|date=5 August 2020|access-date=5 August 2020|archive-date=4 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073619/https://www.jpnews-sy.com/ar/news.php?id=190561|url-status=live}}</ref> Tunisia,<ref name="APRelief"/> Turkey,<ref name="APRelief"/> United Arab Emirates,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.arnnewscentre.ae/news/uae/uae-sends-emergency-medical-aid-to-lebanon/ |title=UAE sends emergency medical aid to Lebanon |website=ARN News Agency |date=5 August 2020 |access-date=5 August 2020 |archive-date=24 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220824022332/https://www.arnnewscentre.ae/news/uae/uae-sends-emergency-medical-aid-to-lebanon/ |url-status=live }}</ref> United Kingdom,<ref name="APRelief"/> and United States.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://apnews.com/4983a5f4237d22b46549d17724e5b392 |title=US aid begins flowing to Lebanon in wake of deadly explosion |website=AP News |date=6 August 2020 |access-date=7 August 2020 |archive-date=7 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807182807/https://apnews.com/4983a5f4237d22b46549d17724e5b392 |url-status=live}}</ref> Intergovernmental organizations which sent aid include the European Union,<ref name="APRelief"/> the United Nations,<ref name="APRelief"/> and the World Health Organization.<ref name="APRelief"/>}} On 9 August, a multinational summit hosted by France raised 253 million euros in aid.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Devi|first=Sharmila|date=August 2020|title=Lebanon faces humanitarian emergency after blast |journal=The Lancet |language=en |volume=396 |issue=10249 |page=456 |doi=10.1016/S0140-6736(20)31750-5 |pmc=7426079 |pmid=32798477}}</ref> The money pledged was not to be given to the Lebanese government, but rather to the people of Lebanon through the United Nations, other international organizations, and ]s.<ref>{{cite web|last=Azhari|first=Timour|title=Lebanon aid summit raises $300m to be given 'directly' to people|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/ajimpact/nations-pledge-aid-lebanon-people-200809162756001.html|access-date=9 August 2020|website=]|archive-date=9 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200809200829/https://www.aljazeera.com/ajimpact/nations-pledge-aid-lebanon-people-200809162756001.html|url-status=live}}</ref> On 14 August, a $565 million appeal for Lebanon was launched by the United Nations, including initial recovery efforts, as well as immediate humanitarian aid.<ref>{{cite web |title=FBI team arrives this weekend to take part in Beirut probe |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/beirut-explosion-probe-fbi-team-arrives-this-weekend-lebanon/ |access-date=18 August 2020 |work=CBS News |date=15 August 2020 |archive-date=17 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200817210849/https://www.cbsnews.com/news/beirut-explosion-probe-fbi-team-arrives-this-weekend-lebanon/ |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
===International=== | |||
Representatives of multiple countries, and the UN,<ref>{{Cite web|date=4 August 2020|title=UNIFIL statement on the explosion in Beirut|url=https://unifil.unmissions.org/unifil-statement-explosion-beirut|access-date=5 August 2020|website=UNIFIL|language=en}}</ref><ref name="auto" /> offered condolences. In addition to those countries which provided aid, others have offered to do so.{{efn|Other countries that have offered aid include: Cyprus,<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Christodoulides |first=Nikos |user=Christodulides|number=1290692283071963139 |date=4 August 2020 |title=Expressing our overwhelming and heartfelt sympathy to the Lebanese people. We are in communication with the Lebanese government and have informed of Cyprus's immediate readiness to assist, #Lebanon, #Cyprus, @CyprusMFA, @CyprusinLebanon |accessdate=4 August 2020}}</ref> Greece,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.mfa.gr/en/current-affairs/statements-speeches/foreign-ministry-announcement-on-the-explosions-in-beirut.html |title=Foreign Ministry announcement on the explosions in Beirut |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=4 August 2020 |website=Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs |accessdate=4 August 2020}}</ref> Malaysia,<ref name="AJE 05-08" /> Palestine,<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://wafa.ps/Pages/Details/7074|title=الرئيس يعرب عن تضامنه مع القيادة والشعب اللبناني عقب انفجار بيروت|website=wafa.ps|language=ar}}</ref> the United Kingdom,<ref>{{Cite tweet|author=Dominic Raab |author-link=Dominic Raab |user=DominicRaab |number=1290712042228387842 |date=4 August 2020| title=My thoughts and prayers are with those affected by the devastating explosion in #Beirut today. The UK stands in solidarity with the people of Lebanon and is ready to offer help and support including to those British nationals impacted.|access-date=4 August 2020 |language=en}}</ref> and the United States.<ref>{{cite news |title= Beirut explosion: How the world has responded|url=https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/lebanon-beirut-explosion-how-world-responded-international-reactions|work=Middle East Eye|date= 5 August 2020}}</ref>}} Notably, ] offered aid via ] channels, in what '']'' described as an "unusual move" given that Israel and Lebanon have ] and are technically at war.<ref name="AJE aid" /><ref name=":4">{{Cite web|last=|first=|date=|title=Israel not behind Beirut blast, sources on both sides say; at least 10 killed|url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblog-august-4-2020/|url-status=live|archive-url=|archive-date=|access-date=4 August 2020|website=The Times of Israel}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Fitz-Gibbon |first1=Jorge |title=Israel uses UN channels to offer aid to Lebanon after deadly Beirut blast |url=https://nypost.com/2020/08/04/israel-uses-un-channels-to-offer-aid-to-lebanon-after-beirut-blast/ |accessdate=5 August 2020 |work=New York Post |date=4 August 2020}}</ref> Both Israel and senior Hezbollah officials ruled out Israeli involvement in the explosion, a claim spread via ].<ref name="AA">{{Cite web|date=4 August 2020|title=Lübnan'ın başkenti Beyrut'ta patlama|url=https://www.aa.com.tr/tr/dunya/lubnanin-baskenti-beyrutta-patlama/1931375|accessdate=4 August 2020|publisher=]|language=tr}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Boxerman|first=Aaron|date=4 August 2020|title=Israeli involvement in massive Beirut port blast ruled out by both sides|work=]|url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/israeli-involvement-in-massive-beirut-blast-ruled-out-by-both-sides/|accessdate=4 August 2020}}</ref> | |||
In the first week after the explosion, civilians gathered in hundreds to volunteer to clean up the debris on the streets and inside homes and businesses in ], ], and ] neighbourhoods. Many civil society organizations offered equipment and food to the volunteers, while many residents and businesses opened their homes and hotels for free to those who lost their homes in the blast.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Dadouch |first=Sarah |title=They return to homes damaged in Beirut's blast to discover someone has already cleaned them |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/they-return-to-homes-damaged-in-beiruts-blast-to-discover-someone-has-already-cleaned-them/2020/08/10/85c3bda0-db04-11ea-b4f1-25b762cdbbf4_story.html |access-date=14 August 2020 |newspaper=Washington Post |archive-date=14 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200814232457/https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/they-return-to-homes-damaged-in-beiruts-blast-to-discover-someone-has-already-cleaned-them/2020/08/10/85c3bda0-db04-11ea-b4f1-25b762cdbbf4_story.html |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
Several countries expressed solidarity by lighting up landmarks and monuments in the colors of the ], including the ] in ], the ] in ], the ],<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.aa.com.tr/en/middle-east/landmarks-in-dubai-egypt-lit-up-with-lebanese-flag/1931895|access-date=5 August 2020|date=5 August 2020|title=Landmarks in Dubai, Egypt lit up with Lebanese flag|last=Topcu|first=Gulsen|work=]}}</ref> and the city hall of ], Israel.<ref name="Haaretz Tel Aviv">{{cite news|url=https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/.premium-tel-aviv-mayor-announces-solidarity-with-lebanon-slammed-by-right-wing-lawmakers-1.9049005|access-date=5 August 2020|date=5 August 2020|title=Tel Aviv Shows Solidarity With Lebanon, Drawing Right-wing Ire|last=Peleg|first=Bar|work=]}}</ref> Some figures from the Israeli right wing criticized the display of the flag of Lebanon, an "enemy state", in Tel Aviv.<ref name="Haaretz Tel Aviv" /> | |||
] played a leading role in the rescue and reconstruction of historic buildings, with ] assessing the damage to houses, museums and libraries, and the ] providing expertise. Blue Shield International, the ] and the ] put together a project to secure and protect cultural assets. According to ], founding president of Blue Shield International, the protection of cultural property in Beirut was not only about securing buildings, but also about preventing ] and ], taking dangerous ]s into account. The efforts also included the restoration of schools.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.peacekeeper.at/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Beirut-Blast.pdf|title=Der "Beirut Blast" und "Blue Helmet – Blue Shield"|access-date=30 August 2020|archive-date=29 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200929062336/http://www.peacekeeper.at/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Beirut-Blast.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Unesco, Icom and Louvre rally to help Beirut as museums tackle extensive explosion damage|url=http://www.theartnewspaper.com/news/beirut-museums-size-up-the-explosion-damage|access-date=30 August 2020|website=www.theartnewspaper.com|date=17 August 2020|archive-date=28 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200928151429/https://www.theartnewspaper.com/news/beirut-museums-size-up-the-explosion-damage|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.unmultimedia.org/tv/unifeed/asset/2577/2577900/ |title=UN peacekeepers in partnership with the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) and Blue Shield International in Lebanon |access-date=20 December 2020 |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073632/https://www.unmultimedia.org/tv/unifeed/asset/2577/2577900/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.krone.at/2216068 |title="Beirut: Habsburg koordiniert Kulturgüterschutz" (German: Beirut – Habsburg coordinates the protection of cultural property) |date=23 August 2020 |access-date=28 August 2020 |archive-date=27 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200827041040/https://www.krone.at/2216068 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://unifil.unmissions.org/unifil-concludes-heritage-protection-mission-beirut |title=UNIFIL concludes heritage protection mission in Beirut |date=30 October 2020 |access-date=20 December 2020 |archive-date=30 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130235346/https://unifil.unmissions.org/unifil-concludes-heritage-protection-mission-beirut |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=27 August 2020 |title=UNESCO: Beirut blast damaged 160 schools; 85,000 students unable to attend classes |url=https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20200827-unesco-beirut-blast-damaged-160-schools-85000-students-unable-to-attend-classes/ |access-date=30 August 2020 |website=Middle East Monitor |archive-date=31 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200831043142/https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20200827-unesco-beirut-blast-damaged-160-schools-85000-students-unable-to-attend-classes/ |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
On 6 August 2020, the ]'s executive chairman ] was the first politician to visit ]<ref> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220125114057/https://www.alarabiya.net/arab-and-world/2020/08/06/%D8%AC%D8%B9%D8%AC%D8%B9-%D8%B9%D9%86-%D8%A7%D9%86%D9%81%D8%AC%D8%A7%D8%B1-%D8%A8%D9%8A%D8%B1%D9%88%D8%AA-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B3%D9%84%D8%B7%D8%A9-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D9%85%D9%88%D9%82%D8%B9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A7%D8%AA%D9%87%D8%A7%D9%85 |date=25 January 2022 }}, '']'', Lebanon, 6 August 2020</ref> and launched from there a relief committee, Ground-0, under the leadership of the former minister ] to support in rebuilding Beirut. In December 2020, the committee achieved repairing 709 houses, assisted 5300 individuals and 2300 families, distributed 14000 food rations, made 2540 medical consultations, and provided 2030 individuals with medicine. In addition, the committee distributed more than 150 scholarships for Beirut schools' students.<ref>{{cite web |author=جبران خليل جبران |url=https://groundzerobeirut.org/ |title=Ground Zero Beirut |publisher=Ground Zero Beirut |date= |accessdate=3 August 2022 |archive-date=13 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220813004945/https://groundzerobeirut.org/ |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
<!-- SEE ] about adding more detail about individual countries' responses. --> | |||
== Reactions == | |||
=== Domestic === | |||
Prime Minister Hassan Diab announced that 5 August, the day after the explosion, would be a national day of mourning.<ref>{{cite journal |title=Lebanon's Prime Minister Hassan Diab declares national day of mourning Wednesday, after Beirut blast |url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2020/Aug-04/509854-lebanons-prime-minister-hassan-diab-declares-national-day-of-mourning-wednesday-after-beirut.ashx |journal=The Daily Star |access-date=4 August 2020 |date=4 August 2020 |archive-date=8 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200808140718/http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2020/Aug-04/509854-lebanons-prime-minister-hassan-diab-declares-national-day-of-mourning-wednesday-after-beirut.ashx |url-status=live }}</ref> The Lebanese government declared a two-week ].<ref>{{cite web |title=Lebanon Declares 2-Week State of Emergency After Deadly Blast |publisher=VOA News |date=6 August 2020 |url=https://www.voanews.com/middle-east/lebanon-declares-2-week-state-emergency-after-deadly-blast |access-date=6 August 2020 |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073647/https://www.voanews.com/middle-east/lebanon-declares-2-week-state-emergency-after-deadly-blast |url-status=live }}</ref> President Aoun said the government would provide support to displaced people, and the Ministry of Health would meet the expense of treatment for the wounded.<ref name="nbcnews">{{cite web |last1=Cheeseman |first1=Abbie |last2=Suliman |first2=Adela |last3=Mulligan |first3=Matthew |title=Massive explosion rocks Beirut, causing injuries and widespread damage |url=https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/large-explosion-rocks-port-area-beirut-cause-unclear-n1235767 |website=NBC News |access-date=4 August 2020 |date=4 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804160912/https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/large-explosion-rocks-port-area-beirut-cause-unclear-n1235767 |archive-date=4 August 2020 |url-status=live }}</ref> ], the ], said he arrived at the scene to search for firefighters who were on the site attempting to control the fire that was raging before the second explosion. He broke down in tears on television, calling the event "a national catastrophe".{{r|Hubbard}} "It resembles to what happened in Japan, in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. That's what reminds me of. In my life, I haven't seen destruction on this scale," he said.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://edition.cnn.com/middleeast/live-news/lebanon-beirut-explosion-live-updates-dle-intl/h_fb0a148e912e72debb03e78d5c211362 |title=Beirut explosion rocks Lebanon's capital |website=]|date=4 August 2020 |access-date=4 August 2020 |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806194144/https://edition.cnn.com/middleeast/live-news/lebanon-beirut-explosion-live-updates-dle-intl/h_fb0a148e912e72debb03e78d5c211362 |url-status=live}}</ref> Lebanese civilians from every region in Lebanon came to help by offering food, cleaning the streets, and helping NGOs.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.dw.com/en/beirut-blast-lebanons-young-helping-the-countrys-most-desperate/a-54575279 |title=Beirut blast: Lebanon's young helping the country's most desperate |website=] |access-date=19 January 2021 |archive-date=14 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201014231802/https://www.dw.com/en/beirut-blast-lebanons-young-helping-the-countrys-most-desperate/a-54575279 |url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
Multiple members of the ] resigned in protest, including ],<ref>{{cite web|url=https://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2020/08/05/Beirut-blasts-Lebanese-MP-Marwan-Hamadeh-resigns-says-government-ineffective-.html|title=Beirut blasts: Lebanese MP Marwan Hamadeh resigns, says 'government ineffective'|date=5 August 2020|website=Al Arabiya English|access-date=8 August 2020|archive-date=6 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806225926/https://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2020/08/05/Beirut-blasts-Lebanese-MP-Marwan-Hamadeh-resigns-says-government-ineffective-.html|url-status=live}}</ref> ],<ref name="jazeera.live.2020.08.08">{{cite web |title=Police fire tear gas to break up Beirut protest: Live updates |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/60-missing-beirut-mega-blast-live-updates-200808061240497.html |website=] |access-date=8 August 2020 |archive-date=14 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200814123647/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/60-missing-beirut-mega-blast-live-updates-200808061240497.html |url-status=live }}</ref> all three ] MPs,<ref name="jazeera.live.2020.08.08" /> ],<ref name="jazeera.live.2020.08.09">{{cite web|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/hundreds-protesters-injured-anger-simmers-beirut-live-200808234355971.html|title=Second day of protests as anger over Beirut explosion grows: Live|author1=Ted Regencia |author2=Arwa Ibrahim |author3=Farah Najjar|website=]|access-date=10 August 2020|archive-date=10 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200810134427/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/hundreds-protesters-injured-anger-simmers-beirut-live-200808234355971.html|url-status=live}}</ref> ],{{r|jazeera.live.2020.08.09}} ],<ref name="resignation.jamali">{{cite web|url=https://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2020/08/09/Lebanese-government-on-verge-of-collapse-with-more-resignations-expected.html|title=Lebanese government on verge of collapse after 3 ministers, 8 MPs resign|date=9 August 2020|website=Al Arabiya English|access-date=10 August 2020|archive-date=10 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200810015850/https://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2020/08/09/Lebanese-government-on-verge-of-collapse-with-more-resignations-expected.html|url-status=live}}</ref> and ].<ref name="jazeera.live.2020.08.10">{{cite web|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/beirut-police-fire-tear-gas-protesters-regroup-live-updates-200810010528285.html|title='Endemic corruption' caused Beirut blast, says Diab: Live updates|author1=Ted Regencia |author2=Linah Alsaafin |author3=Ramy Allahoum |website=]|access-date=10 August 2020|archive-date=17 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200917212136/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/beirut-police-fire-tear-gas-protesters-regroup-live-updates-200810010528285.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The Lebanese ambassador to Jordan, ], also resigned on live television.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2020/08/06/Lebanon-s-ambassador-to-Jordan-resigns-on-live-TV-after-Beirut-explosions.html|title=Lebanon's ambassador to Jordan resigns on live TV, cites rampant corruption|date=6 August 2020|website=Al Arabiya English|access-date=8 August 2020|archive-date=9 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200809050750/https://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2020/08/06/Lebanon-s-ambassador-to-Jordan-resigns-on-live-TV-after-Beirut-explosions.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="jazeera.live.2020.08.06">{{cite web|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/lebanon-orders-house-arrest-officials-beirut-blast-live-200805230752876.html|title=LIVE: France's Macron says Lebanon aid won't go to the 'corrupt'|author1=Arwa Ibrahim |author2=Ramy Allahoum|website=]|access-date=4 February 2021|archive-date=21 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200921042358/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/lebanon-orders-house-arrest-officials-beirut-blast-live-200805230752876.html|url-status=live}}</ref> On the night of 6 August, the protests against the government that had been ] resumed, with dozens of protestors near the parliament building calling for the resignation of Lebanese government officials.{{r|jazeera.live.2020.08.06}}<ref name="protests.bbc">{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-53688975|title=Anti-government protests break out in Beirut|date=7 August 2020|website=]|access-date=7 August 2020|archive-date=17 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210117064758/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-53688975|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author1=Ted Regencia |author2=Arwa Ibrahim |author3=Farah Najjar|title=Second day of protests as anger over Beirut explosion grows: Live|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/hundreds-protesters-injured-anger-simmers-beirut-live-200808234355971.html|access-date=10 August 2020|website=]|archive-date=10 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200810134427/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/hundreds-protesters-injured-anger-simmers-beirut-live-200808234355971.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|last1=Hubbard|first1=Ben|last2=El-Naggar|first2=Mona|date=8 August 2020|title=Clashes Erupt in Beirut at Blast Protest as Lebanon's Anger Boils Over|work=The New York Times|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/08/world/middleeast/Beirut-explosion-protests-lebanon.html|access-date=10 August 2020|issn=0362-4331|archive-date=9 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200809192640/https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/08/world/middleeast/Beirut-explosion-protests-lebanon.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|author=Ben Wedeman|author2=Luna Safwan|author3=Ghazi Balkiz|author4=Tamara Qiblawi|title=Lebanon protesters storm ministries as violent protests grip Beirut|url=https://www.cnn.com/2020/08/08/middleeast/beirut-judgment-day-protests-intl/index.html|access-date=10 August 2020|website=CNN|archive-date=9 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200809211657/https://www.cnn.com/2020/08/08/middleeast/beirut-judgment-day-protests-intl/index.html|url-status=live}}</ref> On 8{{nbsp}}August, Diab called for early elections, saying it would be the only way for the country to exit the crisis.{{r|jazeera.live.2020.08.08}} | |||
On 9 August, the ], ], and then the ], ], resigned, the first government resignations since the explosion.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/aug/09/lebanon-information-minister-manal-abdel-samad-quits-in-first-cabinet-resignation-explosion|title=Lebanon information minister quits in first cabinet resignation|access-date=9 August 2020|website=The Guardian|date=9 August 2020|archive-date=13 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210113153343/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/aug/09/lebanon-information-minister-manal-abdel-samad-quits-in-first-cabinet-resignation-explosion|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Regencia|first1=Ted|last2=Ibrahim|first2=Arwa|last3=Najja|first3=Farah|date=9 August 2020|title=Second day of protests as anger over Beirut explosion grows: Live|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/hundreds-protesters-injured-anger-simmers-beirut-live-200808234355971.html|access-date=9 August 2020|website=]|archive-date=10 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200810134427/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/hundreds-protesters-injured-anger-simmers-beirut-live-200808234355971.html|url-status=live}}</ref> On 10 August, the ], ], also resigned, followed by the resignation of ].{{r|jazeera.live.2020.08.10}}<ref name="auto5">{{Cite news|title=Lebanese cabinet resigns amid political fallout from Beirut explosion|url=https://www.haaretz.com/middle-east-news/third-lebanese-minister-resigns-amid-political-fallout-from-beirut-explosion-1.9060949|access-date=10 August 2020|newspaper=Haaretz|archive-date=10 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200810105845/https://www.haaretz.com/middle-east-news/third-lebanese-minister-resigns-amid-political-fallout-from-beirut-explosion-1.9060949|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|date=10 August 2020|title=Beirut blast: Lebanese government resigns over explosion|url=https://www.euronews.com/2020/08/10/beirut-blast-lebanese-government-resigns-over-explosion-says-health-minister|access-date=10 August 2020|website=euronews|archive-date=1 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200901180525/https://www.euronews.com/2020/08/10/beirut-blast-lebanese-government-resigns-over-explosion-says-health-minister|url-status=live}}</ref> Shortly after the resignation of the cabinet, ] ] stepped down from office.<ref name="auto4">{{cite web|date=10 August 2020|title=Lebanese PM steps down in wake of Beirut explosion, protests|url=https://apnews.com/598da05d3907aa58399c86ff85a9babc|access-date=10 August 2020|website=AP NEWS|archive-date=10 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200810115016/https://apnews.com/598da05d3907aa58399c86ff85a9babc|url-status=live}}</ref> President ] accepted the resignation of the government and the Prime Minister, and asked the government to stay on in a ] capacity until a new cabinet is formed.<ref>{{cite web|title=Lebanon's president accepts gov't resignation after Beirut blast|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/lebanon-pm-hassan-diab-resigns-anger-beirut-blast-200810135202076.html|access-date=10 August 2020|website=]|archive-date=13 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200913160045/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/lebanon-pm-hassan-diab-resigns-anger-beirut-blast-200810135202076.html|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
The Ground-0 Relief Committee, an initiative by the ], launched a petition for an international investigation.<ref> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220125120654/https://www.lorientlejour.com/article/1230833/may-chidiac-lance-une-petition-pour-une-enquete-internationale.html |date=25 January 2022 }}, '']'', Lebanon, 29 August 2020</ref> The petition was signed by the relatives of the victims and the missing, by the injured as well as by those whose homes, businesses, or establishments have been damaged. The document was sent to the ], ], through his special coordinator for Lebanon, ], in order to take the necessary steps to appoint an international commission of inquiry.<ref> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220125120655/https://www.lebanese-forces.com/2020/09/17/may-chidiac-214/ |date=25 January 2022 }}, '' {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220125123530/http://www.lebanese-forces.com/ |date=25 January 2022 }}'', Lebanon, 16 September 2020</ref> | |||
The Lebanese Forces Party MPs called for an international investigation into the causes of the double explosion at the port of Beirut on 4 August 2020. They asked the ], ], on 22 February 2021 for the creation of an international commission to be established under the ], which would be responsible for carrying out the investigations. The Members of Parliament, ], ], ], and ], presented a petition to this effect to the United Nations Special Coordinator in Lebanon, Najat Rochdi.<ref> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220125122725/https://www.lorientlejour.com/article/1252917/les-fl-presentent-une-petition-pour-la-creation-dune-commission-denquete-internationale.html |date=25 January 2022 }}, '']'', Lebanon, 23 February 2021</ref> | |||
=== International === | |||
], in Israel, lit up with the colors of the ] on 5 August 2020]] | |||
], in Iran, lit up with the colors of the Lebanese flag on 6 August 2020]] | |||
Representatives of multiple countries, as well as the ] (UN),<ref name="auto" /><ref>{{cite web|date=4 August 2020|title=UNIFIL statement on the explosion in Beirut|url=https://unifil.unmissions.org/unifil-statement-explosion-beirut|access-date=5 August 2020|publisher=UNIFIL|archive-date=4 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073635/https://unifil.unmissions.org/unifil-statement-explosion-beirut|url-status=live}}</ref> offered condolences. In addition to those countries which provided aid, others offered to do so.{{efn|] donated 1,675 kilos of ] to those affected by the Beirut blast; however, the gift was distributed to the families of the soldiers in the Presidential Guard Brigade.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.arabnews.com/node/1732161/middle-east |title=Storm in a teacup: Lebanon's president and 1,675 kilos of finest Ceylon brew |website=Arab News |date=24 August 2020 |access-date=11 September 2020 |archive-date=10 September 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200910123125/https://www.arabnews.com/node/1732161/middle-east |url-status=live }}</ref> In addition, 12 tons of fish donated by ] were not distributed to the public, as the army only mentioned that they "stored it according to public safety standards".<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/beirut-explosion-lebanon-aoun-sri-lanka-tea-donation-guards |title=Beirut explosion: Trouble brewing for Lebanon's president after Sri Lankan tea gift |website=Middle East Eye |date=9 September 2020 |access-date=9 October 2020 |archive-date=10 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201010030353/https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/beirut-explosion-lebanon-aoun-sri-lanka-tea-donation-guards |url-status=live }}</ref> ] has sent 13,000 tons of wheat/flour to Lebanon;<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.the961.com/iraq-13000-tons-wheat-lebanon/ |title=Iraq Is Sending More Than 13,000 Tons Of Wheat To Lebanon |website=The961 |date=August 2020 |access-date=7 November 2020 |archive-date=28 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201028044634/https://www.the961.com/iraq-13000-tons-wheat-lebanon/ |url-status=live }}</ref> however, 7,000 tons of them were poorly stockpiled in the ].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.the961.com/7000-tons-iraq-flour-lebanon-stored-poorly-beirut/ |title=7,000 Tons Of Iraqi Donated Flour Were Just Found Poorly Stored & Damaged In Beirut Stadium |website=The961 |date=6 November 2020 |access-date=7 November 2020 |archive-date=8 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201108045602/https://www.the961.com/7000-tons-iraq-flour-lebanon-stored-poorly-beirut/ |url-status=live }}</ref>}} Notably, ] offered aid via UN channels, as Israel and Lebanon have ] and are technically at war;<ref name="AlJazeeraRelief" /><ref name=":4">{{cite web|title=Israel not behind Beirut blast, sources on both sides say; at least 10 killed|url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblog-august-4-2020/|access-date=4 August 2020|website=The Times of Israel|archive-date=8 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200808140812/https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblog-august-4-2020/|url-status=live}}</ref> the offer was refused by the Lebanese government. Former Israeli Member of Knesset ] hailed the tragedy as a gift from God, celebrating the incident and describing it as a "spectacular firework show."<ref>{{cite news |title=Prominent Israelis are angry at a solidarity gesture for Beirut victims |url=https://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/prominent-israelis-are-angry-at-a-solidarity-gesture-for-beirut-victims-38694/amp |access-date=14 October 2021 |work=] |date=6 August 2020 |archive-date=27 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211027133535/https://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/prominent-israelis-are-angry-at-a-solidarity-gesture-for-beirut-victims-38694/amp |url-status=live }}</ref> Despite years of ], including the ],<ref>{{cite news |title=Why Israel Is Probably Not Responsible For The Beirut Explosion |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/michaelpeck/2020/08/04/was-israel-responsible-for-the-beirut-explosion/ |work=Forbes |date=4 August 2020 |access-date=6 August 2020 |archive-date=5 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805154519/https://www.forbes.com/sites/michaelpeck/2020/08/04/was-israel-responsible-for-the-beirut-explosion/ |url-status=live }}</ref> both Israel and senior ] officials ruled out Israeli involvement in the explosion, despite claims and allegations spread via ].<ref name="AA">{{cite web|date=4 August 2020|title=Lübnan'ın başkenti Beyrut'ta patlama|url=https://www.aa.com.tr/tr/dunya/lubnanin-baskenti-beyrutta-patlama/1931375|access-date=4 August 2020|publisher=]|language=tr|archive-date=8 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200808140726/https://www.aa.com.tr/tr/dunya/lubnanin-baskenti-beyrutta-patlama/1931375|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Boxerman|first=Aaron|date=4 August 2020|title=Israeli involvement in massive Beirut port blast ruled out by both sides|work=]|url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/israeli-involvement-in-massive-beirut-blast-ruled-out-by-both-sides/|access-date=4 August 2020|archive-date=4 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073624/https://www.timesofisrael.com/israeli-involvement-in-massive-beirut-blast-ruled-out-by-both-sides/|url-status=live}}</ref>{{efn|In the meantime, '']'' reported, according to the intelligence information, that Hezbollah received a total of 270 tons of ammonium nitrate on 16 July 2013, delivered from Iran to Lebanon. On 23 October of the same year, another 270 tons of ammonium nitrate were delivered, in addition to a third delivery, which made the three deliveries equal to a quantity of 630 to 670 tons of ammonium nitrate. The second delivery was transported by plane, probably by ], while the other deliveries were made by sea or land, for example across the Syrian border. Mohammad Qasir who has been responsible for Hezbollah's logistics for 20 years was also responsible for paying for the ammonium nitrate deliveries.<ref name="welt">{{cite news |url=https://www.welt.de/politik/ausland/article213884822/Libanon-Die-explosive-Spur-fuehrt-zur-Hisbollah.html |title=Die explosive Spur führt zur Hisbollah |website=Die Welt |language=de |date=19 August 2020 |access-date=19 September 2020 |archive-date=16 September 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200916222620/https://www.welt.de/politik/ausland/article213884822/Libanon-Die-explosive-Spur-fuehrt-zur-Hisbollah.html |url-status=live |last1=Böhmer |first1=Daniel-Dylan }}</ref> In September 2020, the U.S. state department's counterterrorism coordinator, ], mentioned in a video appearance at the ] that: "I can reveal that such caches have been moved through Belgium to France, Greece, Italy, Spain and Switzerland. I can also reveal that significant ammonium nitrate caches have been discovered or destroyed in France, Greece, and Italy".<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/sep/17/us-accuses-hezbollah-weapons-ammonium-nitrate-iran |title=US accuses Hezbollah of stockpiling weapons and ammonium nitrate across Europe |website=The Guardian |date=17 September 2020 |access-date=19 September 2020 |archive-date=20 September 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200920004555/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/sep/17/us-accuses-hezbollah-weapons-ammonium-nitrate-iran |url-status=live }}</ref>}} | |||
The ] was activated on 5{{nbsp}}August, thus providing for widespread usage of various corporate, national, and international ] assets on a ] basis.<ref name="auto6"/> Several countries expressed solidarity by lighting up landmarks and monuments in the colors of the ], including the ],<ref name="Haaretz Tel Aviv">{{cite news|url=https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/.premium-tel-aviv-mayor-announces-solidarity-with-lebanon-slammed-by-right-wing-lawmakers-1.9049005|access-date=5 August 2020|date=5 August 2020|title=Tel Aviv Shows Solidarity With Lebanon, Drawing Right-wing Ire|last=Peleg|first=Bar|work=]|archive-date=6 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806060553/https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/.premium-tel-aviv-mayor-announces-solidarity-with-lebanon-slammed-by-right-wing-lawmakers-1.9049005|url-status=live}}</ref>{{efn|Others include the ],<ref>{{cite news|last=McMullan|first=Ross|url=https://www.newsletter.co.uk/news/opinion/letters/having-lived-lebanon-i-am-shocked-explosion-tragedy-nation-i-came-love-2935821|access-date=7 August 2020|date=7 August 2020|title=Having lived in Lebanon, I am shocked at this explosion tragedy in a nation I came to love|work=]|archive-date=9 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200809111449/https://www.newsletter.co.uk/news/opinion/letters/having-lived-lebanon-i-am-shocked-explosion-tragedy-nation-i-came-love-2935821|url-status=live}}</ref> the ] in ], the ] near ],<ref>{{cite news|last=Chawla|first=Medha|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/trending-news/story/beirut-explosion-burj-khalifa-and-giza-pyramids-light-up-in-solidarity-with-the-victims-1708087-2020-08-05|access-date=5 August 2020|date=5 August 2020|title=Beirut explosion: Burj Khalifa and Giza Pyramids light up in solidarity with the victims|work=]|archive-date=5 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805151227/https://www.indiatoday.in/trending-news/story/beirut-explosion-burj-khalifa-and-giza-pyramids-light-up-in-solidarity-with-the-victims-1708087-2020-08-05|url-status=live}}</ref> the ] in ],<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.okaz.com.sa/variety/na/2036081 |title=تعبيراً عن تضامنها.. علم لبنان يضيء معالم السعودية والإمارات |website=Okaz |language=ar |date=6 August 2020 |access-date=7 August 2020 |archive-date=7 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807072412/https://www.okaz.com.sa/variety/na/2036081 |url-status=live }}</ref> the ] in ],<ref>{{cite news|last=Al Mulla|first=Yasmena|url=https://gulfnews.com/world/gulf/kuwait/kuwait-sends-36-tonnes-of-medical-aid-to-beirut-after-horrific-explosion-1.73027391|access-date=6 August 2020|date=6 August 2020|title=Kuwait sends 36 tonnes of medical aid to Beirut after horrific explosion|work=]|archive-date=7 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807051158/https://gulfnews.com/world/gulf/kuwait/kuwait-sends-36-tonnes-of-medical-aid-to-beirut-after-horrific-explosion-1.73027391|url-status=live}}</ref> the ],<ref>{{cite news|last=Bandler|first=Aaron|url=https://jewishjournal.com/news/320025/l-a-city-hall-will-light-up-with-lebanese-flag-to-show-support-over-beirut-blast/|access-date=6 August 2020|date=6 August 2020|title=L.A. City Hall Lit Up With Lebanese Flag to Show Support Over Beirut Blast|work=]|archive-date=28 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200928173714/https://jewishjournal.com/news/320025/l-a-city-hall-will-light-up-with-lebanese-flag-to-show-support-over-beirut-blast/|url-status=live}}</ref> the headquarters of the ] in ],<ref>{{cite news|url=http://english.wafa.ps/Pages/Details/118759|access-date=6 August 2020|date=6 August 2020|title=In a show of solidarity, Palestine Broadcasting Corporation building in Ramallah lit with the Lebanese flag|work=Palestinian News & Information Agency|archive-date=14 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200914043935/https://english.wafa.ps/Pages/Details/118759|url-status=live}}</ref> the ],<ref>{{cite web|title=Sydney Opera House lights up with Lebanese cedar in solidarity with Beirut|url=http://www.sbs.com.au/news/sydney-opera-house-lights-up-with-lebanese-cedar-in-solidarity-with-beirut|access-date=12 August 2020|website=SBS News|archive-date=12 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200812042015/https://www.sbs.com.au/news/sydney-opera-house-lights-up-with-lebanese-cedar-in-solidarity-with-beirut|url-status=live}}</ref> the ] in ],<ref>{{cite news|last=Aali|first=Fatemeh|url=https://en.mehrnews.com/photo/161951/Lebanon-s-flag-projected-on-Azadi-Tower-as-sign-of-solidarity|access-date=5 August 2020|date=5 August 2020|title=Lebanon's flag projected on Azadi Tower as sign of solidarity|work=]|archive-date=30 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200930142025/https://en.mehrnews.com/photo/161951/Lebanon-s-flag-projected-on-Azadi-Tower-as-sign-of-solidarity|url-status=live}}</ref> and the ] and ] in ].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://asbarez.com/195980/armenias-parliament-building-lit-up-in-solidarity-with-lebanon/|access-date=7 August 2020|date=7 August 2020|title=Parliament, City Hall Buildings in Yerevan Lit Up in Solidarity with Lebanon|work=]|archive-date=4 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073654/http://asbarez.com/195980/armenias-parliament-building-lit-up-in-solidarity-with-lebanon/|url-status=live}}</ref>}} whereas the ] in ] went dark at midnight,<ref>{{cite news |last1=Sedgwick |first1=Justin |title=Eiffel Tower in Paris goes dark in show of solidarity with Beirut after massive explosion |url=https://www.fox5dc.com/news/eiffel-tower-in-paris-goes-dark-in-show-of-solidarity-with-beirut-after-massive-explosion |access-date=7 August 2020 |work=FOX 5 |date=6 August 2020 |archive-date=28 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201028082839/https://www.fox5dc.com/news/eiffel-tower-in-paris-goes-dark-in-show-of-solidarity-with-beirut-after-massive-explosion |url-status=live }}</ref> and the ] flew its flag at its headquarters in ] at ].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.masrawy.com/news/news_publicaffairs/details/2020/8/5/1846501/الجامعة-العربية-تنكس-علمها-حدادا-على-ضحايا-انفجار-بيروت |title=الجامعة العربية تنكس علمها حدادا على ضحايا انفجار بيروت |website=masrawy.com |language=ar |date=5 August 2020 |access-date=7 August 2020 |archive-date=27 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201027064440/https://www.masrawy.com/news/news_publicaffairs/details/2020/8/5/1846501/%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AC%D8%A7%D9%85%D8%B9%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B9%D8%B1%D8%A8%D9%8A%D8%A9-%D8%AA%D9%86%D9%83%D8%B3-%D8%B9%D9%84%D9%85%D9%87%D8%A7-%D8%AD%D8%AF%D8%A7%D8%AF%D8%A7-%D8%B9%D9%84%D9%89-%D8%B6%D8%AD%D8%A7%D9%8A%D8%A7-%D8%A7%D9%86%D9%81%D8%AC%D8%A7%D8%B1-%D8%A8%D9%8A%D8%B1%D9%88%D8%AA |url-status=live }}</ref> Some figures from the ] criticized the display of the ], an "enemy state", in ].<ref name="Haaretz Tel Aviv" /> There was also backlash inside Lebanon against the Israeli ].<ref>{{Cite news |title='We'll light up Tel Aviv ... with our rockets': Lebanese rebuff Israeli solidarity |url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/theyll-destroy-our-country-lebanese-unmoved-by-tel-aviv-show-of-solidarity/ |access-date=7 August 2020 |work=] |archive-date=7 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807150045/https://www.timesofisrael.com/theyll-destroy-our-country-lebanese-unmoved-by-tel-aviv-show-of-solidarity/ |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
Following the explosion, the Netherlands, Turkey, and the United Kingdom sent ] teams.<ref name=":3">{{Cite news |date=2020-08-09 |title=Factbox: Countries rally round Lebanon after Beirut blast |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-lebanon-security-blast-reaction-factb-idUSKCN2550CU |access-date=2022-08-18}}</ref> Egypt sent several planes with tons of medical aid and food to Lebanon. The Egyptian embassy also established a ].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Egypt's field hospital in Beirut receives wounded of Lebanon's blast |url=https://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/1/64/376010/Egypt/Politics-/Egypts-field-hospital-in-Beirut-receives-wounded-o.aspx |access-date=2022-08-18 |website=Ahram Online}}</ref><ref name=":3" /><ref>{{Cite web |title=Countries offer help to Lebanon following massive Beirut explosion |url=https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2020/08/countries-organizations-help-lebanon-explosion-beirut-france.html |access-date=2022-08-18 |website=www.al-monitor.com – Al Monitor |date=5 August 2020 |language=en}}</ref> On 5 August 2020, Qatar started providing urgent medical aid. The ] delivered field hospitals, ]s, and ] to Beirut.<ref name=":3" /><ref>{{Cite web |title=Qatar sends field hospitals to Lebanon |url=https://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2020/08/06/qatar-sends-field-hospitals-to-lebanon.html |access-date=2022-08-18 |website=The Jakarta Post |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-08-05 |title=Qatar sends field hospitals to Lebanon |url=https://www.france24.com/en/20200805-qatar-sends-field-hospitals-to-lebanon |access-date=2022-08-18 |website=France 24 |language=en}}</ref> In addition, Qatar's Emir ] donated {{Currency|50 million|USD|passthrough=yes|linked=no}} to Lebanon.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Qarjouli |first=Asmahan |date=2022-08-04 |title=Qatar, Lebanon mull ports cooperation as Beirut marks blast anniversary |url=https://dohanews.co/qatar-lebanon-mull-ports-cooperation-as-beirut-marks-blast-anniversary/ |access-date=2022-08-18 |website=Doha News {{!}} Qatar |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2020-08-09 |title=Qatar Gives $50 Million to Lebanon, Plans to Help Rebuild Beirut |language=en |work=Bloomberg.com |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-08-09/qatar-gives-50-million-to-lebanon-plans-to-help-rebuild-beirut |access-date=2022-08-18}}</ref> On 6 August 2020, ] provided 36 tonnes of urgent humanitarian and medical aid to Lebanon including ]s, ]s, and 10 ]s.<ref>{{cite web |title=Kuwait sends 36 tonnes of medical aid to Beirut after horrific explosion |url=https://gulfnews.com/world/gulf/kuwait/kuwait-sends-36-tonnes-of-medical-aid-to-beirut-after-horrific-explosion-1.73027391 |access-date=12 May 2022 |website=gulfnews.com |date=6 August 2020 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=9 August 2020 |title=Factbox: Countries rally round Lebanon after Beirut blast |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-lebanon-security-blast-reaction-factb-idUSKCN2550CU |access-date=12 May 2022}}</ref> | |||
As a result of the explosion, concerns were raised about the storage of ammonium nitrate in other ports across the world.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Beirut explosion: Where else is ammonium nitrate being stored?|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-53721136|last1=Giles|first1=Christopher|date=21 August 2020|access-date=3 September 2020|work=BBC News (BBC Reality Check)|last2=Menon|first2=Shruti|last3=Ali|first3=Zulfiqar|archive-date=4 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073659/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-53721136|url-status=live}}</ref> Large quantities of the ] were removed from storage in ], ], ], and ].<ref>{{Cite news |date=29 August 2020 |title=Senegal to Move 3,000 Tons of Explosive Chemical From Port |work=Bloomberg.com |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-08-29/beirut-blast-pushes-senegal-to-move-explosive-chemical-from-port |access-date=3 September 2020 |archive-date=3 September 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200903052734/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-08-29/beirut-blast-pushes-senegal-to-move-explosive-chemical-from-port |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Taylor |first=Adam |title=After Beirut, ports around the world searched for dangerous chemicals. Some didn't like what they found. ce |newspaper=The Washington Post |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2020/08/21/after-beirut-ports-around-world-searched-dangerous-chemicals-some-didnt-like-what-they-found/ |access-date=3 September 2020 |issn=0190-8286 |archive-date=6 September 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200906152652/https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2020/08/21/after-beirut-ports-around-world-searched-dangerous-chemicals-some-didnt-like-what-they-found/ |url-status=live }}</ref>{{efn|Meanwhile, Iraqi Prime Minister ] ordered the formation of a committee to remove hazardous inventories accumulated at the border ports.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20200807-iraq-clears-ports-of-hazardous-materials-following-beirut-blast/ |title=Iraq clears ports of 'hazardous materials' following Beirut blast |website=Middle East Monitor |date=7 August 2020 |access-date=4 September 2020 |archive-date=4 September 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200904103200/https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20200807-iraq-clears-ports-of-hazardous-materials-following-beirut-blast/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Subsequently, hazardous material was removed from storage inside ].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.shafaaq.com/en/Iraq-News/To-avoid-Beirut-s-scenario-Iraq-evacuates-hazardous-material-from-Umm-Qasr-port |title=To avoid Beirut's scenario, Iraq evacuates hazardous material from Umm Qasr port |website=shafaaq.com |date=2 September 2020 |access-date=4 September 2020 |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204073704/https://shafaq.com/en/Iraq-News/To-avoid-Beirut-s-scenario-Iraq-evacuates-hazardous-material-from-Umm-Qasr-port |url-status=live }}</ref>}} | |||
On April 30, 2021, German firm Combi Lift which had loaded its ship with 59 containers of hazardous substances left Beirut port for disposal in Europe.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.dw.com/en/lebanon-beirut-ship-carrying-hazardous-materials-to-soon-depart-for-germany/a-57394538 |title=Beirut ship soon headed for Germany after port blast |publisher=DW |date=30 April 2021 }}</ref> | |||
In August 2021, a memorial event marking the one-year-anniversary of the explosion was held in tribute to the victims at the Port of Beirut, joined by UN officials and International Labour Organization Regional Director Ruba Jaradat.<ref>{{cite web|date=4 August 2021|title=ILO honours the victims of the Beirut port explosion|url=http://www.ilo.org/beirut/media-centre/multimedia/WCMS_816032/lang--en/index.htm|access-date=22 September 2021|website=www.ilo.org|language=en}}</ref> | |||
In December 2021, the ], ], ], ], ], ], and ] held a seminar in follow-up to the explosion.<ref>{{cite web|date=14 December 2021|title=بعد انفجار مرفأ بيروت في 2020.. كيف يمكن الاستفادة من دروس تخزين ونقل المواد الخطرة؟|url=https://news.un.org/ar/story/2021/12/1089702|access-date=15 December 2021|website=www.news.un.org|language=ar}}</ref> National governments of Lebanon, Estonia, France, South Africa, and others shared lessons learned from the explosion. The seminar called for action to better manage the risks of chemicals in ports.<ref>{{cite web|date=14 December 2021|title=In follow-up to the 2020 Beirut port explosion, UN/OECD seminar calls for action to better manage the risks of hazardous substances in port areas and beyond|url=https://unece.org/environment/press/follow-2020-beirut-port-explosion-unoecd-seminar-calls-action-better-manage-risks|access-date=15 December 2021|website=www.unece.org|language=en}}</ref> | |||
=== Conspiracy theories === | |||
Numerous ] emerged on social media in the days following the explosion.<ref>{{cite news |last=Spring |first=Marianna |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/53669029 |title=Beirut explosion: How conspiracy theories spread on social media |publisher=] |date=5 August 2020 |access-date=4 August 2021}}</ref> The main themes were that there was a significant weapons cache belonging to ] stored at the ], and that Israel wished to destroy those weapons. The theories said that Israel launched an attack and the level of destruction took them by surprise. Israel, Lebanon, and Hezbollah all denied this theory, and blame the ammonium nitrate stored in the port.<ref>{{cite news |last=Boxerman |first=Aaron |url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/israeli-involvement-in-massive-beirut-blast-ruled-out-by-both-sides/ |title=Israeli involvement in massive Beirut port blast ruled out by both sides |work=] |date=4 August 2020 |access-date=4 August 2021}}</ref> | |||
==See also== | ==See also== | ||
* ] | |||
{{Portal|Lebanon}} | |||
*] | * ] | ||
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==Notes== | ==Notes== | ||
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==References== | ==References== | ||
{{reflist}} | {{reflist}} | ||
== Further reading == | |||
*{{Cite journal |last=Majzoub |first=Aya |date=2021-08-03 |title='They Killed Us from the Inside': An Investigation into the August 4 Beirut Blast |url=https://www.hrw.org/report/2021/08/03/they-killed-us-inside/investigation-august-4-beirut-blast |journal=Human Rights Watch |language=en}} | |||
==External links== | ==External links== | ||
{{Commons category}} | {{Commons category}} | ||
* by '']'' | * by '']'' | ||
* by '']'' | * by '']'' | ||
* by '']'' | * by '']'' | ||
* by '']'' | * by '']'' | ||
* by '']'' | * by '']'' | ||
* from CNN | |||
* with several warehouses numbered, including Warehouse 12 next to the silos | |||
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* {{EQ-isc-link|618708494}} | |||
{{Ammonium nitrate disasters}} | {{Ammonium nitrate disasters}} | ||
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Latest revision as of 14:24, 28 December 2024
Ammonium nitrate explosion in Lebanon "Beirut explosion" redirects here. For other explosions in Beirut, see Beirut bombings (disambiguation).
Aftermath of the explosion, with the destroyed grain silos to the left and the flooded blast crater to the right. | |
Date | 4 August 2020 (2020-08-04) |
---|---|
Time | 18:08:18 EEST (UTC+03:00) |
Venue | Port of Beirut |
Location | Beirut, Lebanon |
Coordinates | 33°54′05″N 35°31′09″E / 33.90139°N 35.51917°E / 33.90139; 35.51917 |
Type | Ammonium nitrate explosion |
Cause | Fire |
Deaths | 218 |
Non-fatal injuries | 7,000+ |
Property damage | US$15+ billion |
Displaced | ~300,000 |
On 4 August 2020, a large amount of ammonium nitrate stored at the Port of Beirut in the capital city of Lebanon exploded, causing at least 218 deaths, 7,000 injuries, and US$15 billion in property damage, as well as leaving an estimated 300,000 people homeless. A cargo of 2,750 tonnes of the substance (equivalent to around 1.1 kilotons of TNT) had been stored in a warehouse without proper safety measures for the previous six years after having been confiscated by Lebanese authorities from the abandoned ship MV Rhosus. A fire in the same warehouse preceded the explosion.
The blast was so powerful that it was felt throughout Lebanon. It was also felt in Turkey, Syria, Palestine, Jordan, Israel, and parts of Europe, and was heard in Cyprus, more than 240 km (150 mi) away. It was detected by the United States Geological Survey as a seismic event of magnitude 3.3 and is considered one of the most powerful non-nuclear explosions on record. It was powerful enough to affect Earth's ionosphere. The blast was also the largest single-fired ammonium nitrate explosion in history.
Following the explosion, there were suspicions regarding Hezbollah's involvement due to allegations that the explosion occurred at a site storing Hezbollah's weapons. Hezbollah denied these allegations but has been actively involved in demonstrations against the investigation into the explosion.
The Lebanese government declared a two-week state of emergency in response to the disaster. In its aftermath, protests erupted across Lebanon against the government for their failure to prevent the catastrophe, joining a larger series of protests which had been taking place across the country since 2019. On 10 August 2020, Prime Minister Hassan Diab and the Lebanese cabinet resigned.
The adjacent grain silos were badly damaged. In July and August 2022, part of the silos collapsed following a weeks-long fire in the remaining grain.
Background
The explosion occurred behind the grain silos in this view.The economy of Lebanon was in a state of crisis before the explosion, with the government having defaulted on debt, the Lebanese pound plunging, and a poverty rate that had risen past 50%. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic had overwhelmed many of the country's hospitals, several of which were already short of medical supplies and unable to pay staff due to the financial crisis. The morning before the explosion, the head of the Rafik Hariri University Hospital, which served as the main COVID-19 medical facility in Lebanon, warned that it was approaching full capacity.
The government-owned Port of Beirut serves as the main maritime entry point into Lebanon and a vital piece of infrastructure for the importation of scarce goods. The Beirut Naval Base is a part of the port. The port included four basins, sixteen quays, twelve warehouses, a large container terminal, and a grain elevator with a total capacity of 120,000 tonnes that served as a strategic reserve of cereals for the country. The grain elevator was built in the 1960s as part of an expansion plan advanced by Palestinian banker Yousef Beidas.
MV Rhosus
Main article: MV RhosusOn 27 September 2013, the Moldovan-flagged cargo ship MV Rhosus set sail from Batumi, Georgia, to Beira, Mozambique, carrying 2,750 tonnes (3,030 short tons) of ammonium nitrate. Rhosus was owned by a company based in Panama but was regarded by the captain as under the de facto ownership of Russian businessman Igor Grechushkin. The shipment had been ordered by an African explosives manufacturing company for mining in Mozambique. However, reporting by Der Spiegel has found that it was not Grechushkin who owned Rhosus, but rather Cypriot businessman Charalambos Manoli, who maintained a relationship with the bank used by Hezbollah in Lebanon.
On 21 November 2013, the ship made port in Beirut. Some sources said it was forced to port due to mechanical issues and possibly engine problems, while other sources claimed the owner did not have sufficient funds to pay tolls for the Suez Canal and attempted to take on a shipment of heavy machinery in Beirut. The heavy machinery was stacked on top of the doors to the cargo space containing the ammonium nitrate, causing the doors to buckle, which damaged the ship. After inspection by port state control, Rhosus was deemed unseaworthy, and was forbidden to set sail. Eight Ukrainians and one or two Russians were aboard, and with the help of the Ukrainian consul, five Ukrainians were repatriated, leaving four crew members to care for the ship.
The port of Beirut in 2017, with Rhosus moored on the right. Livestock carriers Abou Karim I and Abou Karim III, both severely damaged in the explosions, are in the center, the latter largely obscuring the former.The Port of Beirut eleven days after the disaster. The large ship on the right is the French amphibious assault ship Tonnerre, which arrived in the port on 13 August to provide food, construction materials, medical supplies, and personnel.Grechushkin reportedly went bankrupt, and after the charterers lost interest in the cargo he abandoned Rhosus. The ship soon ran out of provisions, and the remaining crew were unable to disembark due to immigration restrictions. According to Lloyd's List, port state control seized Rhosus on 4 February 2014 due to US$100,000 in unpaid bills. The ship had accrued port fees and been fined for refusing cargo. Lawyers argued for the crew's repatriation on compassionate grounds because of the danger posed by the cargo still aboard the ship, and an Urgent Matters judge in Beirut allowed them to return home. They had been forced to live aboard the ship for about a year.
By order of the judge, Rhosus's cargo was brought ashore in 2014 and placed in Warehouse 12 at the port, where it remained for the next six years. Rhosus sank in the harbor in February 2018.
Lebanese customs officials had sent letters to judges requesting a resolution to the issue of the confiscated cargo, proposing that the ammonium nitrate be either exported, given to the Lebanese Armed Forces or sold to the private Lebanese Explosives Company. Letters had been sent on 27 June and 5 December 2014, 6 May 2015, 20 May and 13 October 2016, and 27 October 2017. One of the letters sent in 2016 noted that judges had not replied to previous requests, and pleaded:
In view of the serious danger of keeping these goods in the hangar in unsuitable climatic conditions, we reaffirm our request to please request the marine agency to re-export these goods immediately to preserve the safety of the port and those working in it, or to look into agreeing to sell this amount ...
Each time, the requests were procedurally declined due to errors by the customs officials. However, the officials persisted in making the same requests instead of correcting the errors. Legal experts also said that the customs officials could have confiscated the material unilaterally.
Explosion
Fire and first explosion
Around 17:45 local time (14:45 UTC) on 4 August 2020, a fire broke out in Warehouse 12 at the Port of Beirut. Warehouse 12, which was waterside and adjacent to the grain elevator, stored the ammonium nitrate that had been confiscated from Rhosus alongside a stash of fireworks. Around 17:55 local time (14:55 UTC), a team of nine firefighters and one paramedic, known as Platoon 5, was dispatched to fight the fire. On arrival the fire crew reported over the radio that there was "something wrong" as the fire was immense and produced "a crazy sound."
The initial explosion, at about 18:07 local time (15:07 UTC), likely triggered by the stored fireworks, created a large plume of grey smoke and bright firework flashes, and heavily damaged Warehouse 12 with a force equivalent to around 1.5–2.5 tons of TNT.
Final explosion
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4K footage of Lebanon explosion shows Beirut Port blast unfolding in slow motion, Al Arabiya |
The second explosion, 33 to 35 seconds later, was far more substantial and felt in northern Israel and in Cyprus, 240 kilometers (150 miles) away. It rocked central Beirut and created a large red-orange cloud, briefly ringed by a white condensation cloud. The red-orange color of the smoke from the second explosion was caused by nitrogen dioxide, a byproduct of ammonium nitrate decomposition.
By the next morning, the main fire that led to the explosion had been extinguished.
Yield
Despite inefficient transmission of the shock waves into the ground, the United States Geological Survey measured the event as a 3.3 local magnitude earthquake, while the Jordan Seismological Observatory reported that it was equivalent to a 4.5 ML earthquake. A study of seismic signatures of the explosion by the Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources in Germany produced a yield estimate between 0.5 and 1.1 kt of TNT. Experts from the Blast and Impact Research Group at the University of Sheffield estimated that the explosion was one of the largest artificial non-nuclear explosions ever recorded. Later, they were able to quantitatively support this rapid estimate as they compiled more distance versus time of arrival data as new videos of the explosion became available on social media platforms. Their study found that the best estimate and upper bound prediction of the yield of the explosion are 0.5 and 1.12 kt of TNT, respectively. This is equal to around 1 GWh of energy. Another study used several videos of the explosion to describe the evolution of the fireball size and estimated the Beirut explosion yield to be 0.6 ± 0.3 kt of TNT. The Beirut explosion was similar to explosions of large amounts of ammonium nitrate in Texas City, United States, in 1947; in Toulouse, France, in 2001; and Tianjin, China, in 2015.
An independent estimate by the International Monitoring System of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization based on infrasonic data obtained an explosive yield equivalent to 0.5–1.1 kt of TNT, making it the sixth-largest accidental artificial non-nuclear explosion in human history.
Aouad et al. (2021) derived the kinematics of the fireball from publicly available videos. Considering a time of separation between the fireball and the shock wave at about 170 milliseconds, they concluded a TNT equivalent mass of 0.2 ± 0.08 kt of TNT or 520 ± 200 tons of ammonium nitrate at a distance of 130 meters from the explosion center. This result is consistent with Dewey 2021 that suggests that the Beirut explosion TNT equivalence is an increasing function of distance.
Temsah et al. 2021 estimated the magnitude of the explosion. The research was based on a structural engineering approach with numerical non-linear finite element modeling of the grain elevator facing Warehouse 12 where the explosion took place. The numerical study model was based on silos data (geometrical and material properties) and the use of the Conventional Weapons Effects Blast Loading (CONWEP), and the Coupled Eulerian-Lagrangian (CEL) methods to generate the blast load. The analysis results proved that an amount equivalent to 564 t of AN (or 220 t of TNT) was adequate to generate damages similar to those resulting from the explosion. This amount represents 20.5% of the original stored amount (2750 t). As for the state of the grain elevator, results showed it was structurally unstable and should be demolished or properly strengthened.
Kim and Pasyanos (2021) put the yield between 0.62–1.25 kt, with the best and most likely estimate at 0.9 kt of TNT, with a likely depth of 2 m.
It has been suggested that not all of the ammonium nitrate was still in the warehouse at the time of the explosion. Some experts estimated that there were only 700 to 1,000 tonnes remaining out of the original 2,750, with the rest having been removed or stolen since 2014. The US Federal Bureau of Investigation estimated there were about 500 tonnes left, a number which was later cited by Prime Minister Hassan Diab. However, there were also two experts who concluded that most or all of the ammonium nitrate exploded.
Cause
Warehouses at the Port of Beirut were used to store explosives and chemicals including nitrates, which are common components of fertilizers and explosives. The General Director of General Security, Major General Abbas Ibrahim, said the ammonium nitrate confiscated from Rhosus had exploded. The 2,750 tonnes (3,030 short tons) of ammonium nitrate was the equivalent to around 1,155 tonnes of TNT (4,830 gigajoules). The failure to remove the materials from the warehouse and relocate them was attributed to mismanagement of the port, corruption of the government, and inaction of the flag registry's country and ship owner.
The Lebanese Broadcasting Corporation International (LBCI) reported that, according to attendees of a Higher Defence Council briefing, the fire was ignited by workers welding a door at a warehouse. A former port worker said that "here were 30 to 40 nylon bags of fireworks inside warehouse 12" that he had personally seen. An American diplomatic cable on 7 August said it "remains unclear ... whether fireworks, ammunition or something else stored next to the ammonium nitrate might have been involved" in worsening the warehouse fire and igniting the ammonium nitrate. A port worker said Warehouse 12 was "not in regular use", and that "those in charge only used to open the warehouse to stack inside it materials confiscated upon judicial orders or perilous products", though he had not seen this to include any armaments.
Casualties
Nationality | Dead | Injured | Ref. |
---|---|---|---|
Syria | 43 | ||
Armenia (Lebanese-Armenians) | 13 | ||
Bangladesh | 5 | 108 | |
Philippines | 4 | 42 | |
Egypt | 3 | ||
Belgium | 2 | 4 | |
Canada | 2 | ||
Palestine | 2 | ||
France | 1 | 24 | |
Italy | 1 | 10 | |
Ethiopia | 1 | 9 | |
Greece | 1 | 5 | |
Netherlands | 1 | 5 | |
Pakistan | 1 | 4 | |
Australia | 1 | ||
Germany | 1 | ||
United States | 1 | ||
Sri Lanka | 16 | ||
Jordan | 7 | ||
Turkey | 6 | ||
India | 5 | ||
Sudan | 5 | ||
Kenya | 3 | ||
Algeria | 2 | ||
China | 1 | ||
Indonesia | 1 | ||
Kazakhstan | 1 | ||
Morocco | 1 | ||
Nigeria | 1 | ||
Vietnam | 1 |
A total of 218 people were confirmed dead from the explosion, with over 7,000 injured. Foreigners from at least 22 countries were among the casualties. Several United Nations naval peacekeepers who were members of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) were injured by the blast. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) reported that 34 refugees were among the dead and missing, and an additional 124 refugees were injured. At least 150 people were left permanently disabled as a result of the explosion.
Notable casualties
All ten members of Platoon 5, a team of nine firefighters and a paramedic, died at the scene of the blast. Nazar Najarian, the secretary-general of the Kataeb Party, died after sustaining severe head injuries. French architect Jean-Marc Bonfils died after sustaining serious injuries at his apartment in the East Village building in Mar Mikhaël. He had been live-streaming the fire at the warehouse on Facebook at the time. Lady Cochrane Sursock, philanthropist and member of the Sursock family, died on 31 August from injuries sustained from the blast.
Damage
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Detailed 0.5 m satellite imagery of explosion aftermath captured by Pleiades-1B on 5 August 2020. |
The explosion overturned cars and stripped steel-framed buildings of their cladding. Within the port area, the explosion destroyed a section of shoreline and left a blast crater roughly 124 m (407 ft) in diameter and 43 m (141 ft) in depth. Homes as far as 10 kilometers (6 miles) away were damaged by the blast, and up to 300,000 people were left homeless by the explosion. The grain elevator was largely destroyed, exacerbating food shortages caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the financial crisis. About 15,000 tonnes (14,800 long tons; 16,500 short tons) of grain were lost, leaving the country with less than a month's worth of grain in reserve. However, part of the elevator's sturdy structure survived, shielding a large area of western Beirut from greater destruction.
The damage from the blast affected over half of Beirut, with the likely cost above US$15 billion and insured losses at around US$3 billion. Approximately ninety percent of the city's hotels were damaged and three hospitals completely destroyed, while two more suffered damage. Dozens of injured people brought to nearby hospitals could not be admitted because of the damage to the hospitals. Windows and other installations of glass across the city were shattered.
Saint George Hospital, one of the city's largest medical facilities, was less than 1 kilometer (5⁄8 mile) from the explosion, and was so badly damaged that staff were forced to treat patients in the street. Four nurses died from the initial blast, fifteen patients died after their ventilators stopped working, and several child cancer patients were injured by flying glass. Within hours, after discharging all its patients and sending some to other facilities, Saint George Hospital was forced to close. The hospital's director of intensive care, Dr. Joseph Haddad, was quoted as saying: "There is no Saint George Hospital anymore. It's fallen, it's on the floor ... It's all destroyed. All of it."
The Sursock Museum was severely damaged, as was much of its artwork, and some ceramics were completely destroyed. The atelier for the fashion house Sandra Mansour was heavily damaged by the explosion. Sursock Palace, a 160-year-old Beirut landmark that was listed as a cultural heritage site, also sustained heavy damage, as did its many works of art. Some glass artifacts in the Archaeological Museum of the American University of Beirut were also destroyed, and the huge 118-year-old door which opened onto the main exhibition space was blown off its hinges. Bustros Palace, which hosts the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants, was severely damaged. The Armenian Catholicosate in Antelias sustained great damage. All the stained glass windows of the National Evangelical Church were blown out. The FIBA Asia headquarters was also heavily damaged. Embassies in and around Beirut reported varying degrees of damage to their buildings; the embassies of Argentina, Australia, Finland, Cyprus, and the Netherlands, which were close to the blast, sustained heavy damage, while minor damage was reported from the South Korean, Hungarian, Kazakh, Russian, Bulgarian, Romanian, and Turkish embassies.
Shipping
The cruise ship Orient Queen, berthed near Warehouse 12, suffered extensive damage and capsized overnight. Two members of the crew were killed, and seven crew members were injured. On 7 August, the first lawsuit related to the explosions was filed by the ship's owners, Abou Merhi Cruises, whose offices were also destroyed. The Bangladesh Navy corvette BNS Bijoy, which participated in UNIFIL, was also damaged.
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Abou Karim I on its side next to Abou Karim III, near the blast crater The crater is the water-filled area in the left foreground. |
The edible-oil tanker ship Amadeo II, being used as a bunker barge at the port, was nearest to the explosion, which deposited the mangled remains of the ship on a nearby quay. The ship's crew died in the explosion. Two large livestock carriers, Abou Karim I and Abou Karim III, laid up at the end of Berth 09, very close to Warehouse 12, were heavily damaged. Abou Karim I became unstable, keeled over onto the adjacent Abou Karim III and shortly afterwards capsized. The livestock carrier Jouri and the cargo ships Mero Star and Raouf H were also close to the blast and suffered serious damage; AIS from these ships stopped broadcasting at the time of the explosion.
Hapag-Lloyd's offices in Beirut were destroyed. CMA CGM's offices, located a few hundred meters away from the site of the explosion, were severely damaged. One employee died and two were severely injured.
Airport
Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport, the city's main airport, about 10 km (6 mi) from the site of the blast, sustained moderate damage to the terminal buildings during the explosion. Doors and windows were destroyed, and ceiling tiles were shaken loose by the shockwave, severing electrical wires. Despite the damage, flights continued.
Subsequent collapses
In July 2022, grains remaining in the silo caught fire due to a combination of fermentation and summer heat. On 31 July, the northern part of the silo collapsed. Two further collapses occurred in August. The government had ordered the demolition of the silos in April 2022, but families of blast victims objected, saying it should be preserved as a memorial site.
Investigation
The government formed an investigative committee led by Prime Minister Hassan Diab, which announced it would submit its findings to the Council of Ministers of Lebanon by 11 August 2020. The committee includes the justice, interior and defence ministers, and the head of the top four security agencies: the Armed Forces, General Security, Internal Security Forces, and State Security. The investigation was to examine whether the explosion was an accident or due to negligence, and if it was caused by a bomb or another external interference. President Michel Aoun rejected calls for an international probe despite demands from world leaders.
On 5 August, the Council agreed to place sixteen Beirut port officials who had overseen storage and security since 2014 under house arrest, overseen by the army, pending the investigation into the explosions. In addition, the general manager of the port, Hassan Koraytem, and the former director general of Lebanon's customs authority, Shafiq Merhi, were arrested. Later, on 17 August, the incumbent director-general of Lebanon's customs authority, Badri Daher, was also arrested. Also, former ministers of both finance and public works were due to be interrogated by a judge appointed by the council. In the meantime, state prosecutor Ghassan Oueidat ordered a travel ban on seven individuals, including Koraytem. While Acting Justice Minister Marie-Claude Najm unsuccessfully demanded an international investigation into the blast, she also noted that "...this case is a chance for the Lebanese judiciary to prove they can do their jobs and win back the confidence of the people". On 19 August, a Lebanon judge ordered the arrests of more suspects over the explosion, making the total number of accused 25.
The Lebanese judge Fadi Sawan, who has been responsible for the investigation, summoned former Minister of Transportation and Public Works Ghazi Aridi, Labor Ministers Ghazi Zaiter, Youssef Fenianos, and Michel Najjar, General Director of the Lebanese State Security Tony Saliba, Director General of Lebanon's Land and Maritime Transport division, Abdul-Hafeez Al-Qaisi, and General Director of General Security, Major General Abbas Ibrahim.
In September, Lebanon's state prosecution asked Interpol to detain two Russian citizens, the captain and the owner of Rhosus, as its cargo of ammonium nitrate was blamed for the explosion. In January 2021, Interpol issued Red Notices against the two Russians as well as a Portuguese man.
In December 2020, Lebanon's outgoing Prime Minister Diab and three former ministers were charged with negligence over the Beirut port explosion. The former ministers were former finance minister Ali Hassan Khalil, Ghazi Zeiter, and Youssef Fenianos, both former ministers of public works. Zeitar was transport and public works minister in 2014, followed by Fenianos in 2016, who held the job until the beginning of 2020. Khalil was finance minister in 2014, 2016, and until 2020.
On 28 January 2021, Syrian-Russian businessman George Haswani denied any links to the Beirut explosion. He told Reuters he did not know anything about a company linked to the process of buying a shipment of chemicals that exploded. In an interview with Reuters at his home in Damascus, Haswani said that he had resorted to the Cypriot company Interstatus to register his company, which is the same agent that registered the Savaro company, and that the agent company had moved the registration site of the two companies to the same address on the same day. However, Haswani said that he did not know anything about Savaro and that any links between it and his company are just a coincidence because the two companies have the same agent. As stated in previous reports, Reuters was unable to determine whether Haswani had anything to do with Savaro. Haswani said, "I don't know what other companies are registered by this Cypriot company, five or three or 70 or more... It is a fabricated media whirlwind. We don't know Savaro and we hadn't heard about them before this." Interstatus did not respond to a request for comment. Marina Psyllou, the director of the "Interstatus" company, was listed in the registration documents of the company (Savaro) as the only owner and director of the company, but she denied that she was the real manager of the company. She told Reuters in mid-January 2021 that the beneficial owner of the company was another person, whom she refused to identify. She added that Savaro was a dormant company that had never conducted business. Haswani said that he was not contacted by any investigators from Lebanon or any other country regarding the explosion and that he will soon work to file a legal case in Paris against media reports linking him to the explosion. He continued, "I am living my life normally and laughing because I am someone who knows well that I have nothing to do with this matter at all. Why would I worry?"
On 15 April 2021, six detained people were released, including two officers, although they were not allowed to travel out of Lebanon.
In September 2021, OCCRP published an investigation, that linked Savaro Limited to a Ukrainian company trading chemicals, directed by Ukrainian citizen Volodymyr Verbonol. The report also mentions that only 20% of the nitrate originally stored in the warehouse was actually left when it exploded, raising questions about what happened with the rest.
On 14 October 2021, six people were killed and at least 30 injured in a gunfire exchange in Beirut during protests by members of the Shia Amal and Hezbollah outside the Justice Palace, which demanded an end to the investigations led by Judge Tarek Bitar, for they deemed him as too much centered on their political allies.
On 21 November 2021, the BBC reported that legal groups representing victims of the blast had sent letters on three occasions to UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres requesting more information from UNIFIL, but had received no acknowledgment from the UN. A day later, the Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdallah Bouhabib announced that Lebanon received satellite images from Russia of the port from the day of the blast in 2020. These were the first official images made available from any foreign government.
Throughout 2022, the investigation stalled. As of 8 June, parliamentary immunity, as well as outstanding complaints and other procedural roadblocks initiated by two members of Parliament and former ministers (namely, Ali Hassan Khalil and Ghazi Zaiter), continued to prevent significant progress in the case.
Relief operations
The Lebanese Red Cross said every available ambulance from North Lebanon, Bekaa, and South Lebanon was being dispatched to Beirut to help patients. According to the agency, a total of 75 ambulances and 375 medics were activated in response to the explosions. Lebanese President Michel Aoun said the government would make up to 100 billion pounds (US$66 million) in aid available to support recovery operations. The ride-sharing app Careem offered free rides to and from hospitals and blood donation centers to anyone willing to donate blood. Volunteers removed debris while local business owners offered to repair damaged buildings for free in the absence of a state-sponsored cleanup operation. A temporary hospital was established in the city by the Iranian Red Crescent Society.
Health Minister Hamad Hasan requested that international aid be sent to Lebanon; a number of countries sent in food, medical supplies, field hospitals, medical workers, and rescue teams. On 9 August, a multinational summit hosted by France raised 253 million euros in aid. The money pledged was not to be given to the Lebanese government, but rather to the people of Lebanon through the United Nations, other international organizations, and non-governmental organizations. On 14 August, a $565 million appeal for Lebanon was launched by the United Nations, including initial recovery efforts, as well as immediate humanitarian aid.
In the first week after the explosion, civilians gathered in hundreds to volunteer to clean up the debris on the streets and inside homes and businesses in Gemmayze, Achrafieh, and Karantina neighbourhoods. Many civil society organizations offered equipment and food to the volunteers, while many residents and businesses opened their homes and hotels for free to those who lost their homes in the blast.
UNESCO played a leading role in the rescue and reconstruction of historic buildings, with Blue Shield International assessing the damage to houses, museums and libraries, and the International Council of Museums providing expertise. Blue Shield International, the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon and the Lebanese Armed Forces put together a project to secure and protect cultural assets. According to Karl von Habsburg, founding president of Blue Shield International, the protection of cultural property in Beirut was not only about securing buildings, but also about preventing looting and water damage, taking dangerous chemical substances into account. The efforts also included the restoration of schools.
On 6 August 2020, the Lebanese Forces Party's executive chairman Samir Geagea was the first politician to visit Beirut and launched from there a relief committee, Ground-0, under the leadership of the former minister Dr. May Chidiac to support in rebuilding Beirut. In December 2020, the committee achieved repairing 709 houses, assisted 5300 individuals and 2300 families, distributed 14000 food rations, made 2540 medical consultations, and provided 2030 individuals with medicine. In addition, the committee distributed more than 150 scholarships for Beirut schools' students.
Reactions
Domestic
Prime Minister Hassan Diab announced that 5 August, the day after the explosion, would be a national day of mourning. The Lebanese government declared a two-week state of emergency. President Aoun said the government would provide support to displaced people, and the Ministry of Health would meet the expense of treatment for the wounded. Marwan Abboud, the governor of Beirut, said he arrived at the scene to search for firefighters who were on the site attempting to control the fire that was raging before the second explosion. He broke down in tears on television, calling the event "a national catastrophe". "It resembles to what happened in Japan, in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. That's what reminds me of. In my life, I haven't seen destruction on this scale," he said. Lebanese civilians from every region in Lebanon came to help by offering food, cleaning the streets, and helping NGOs.
Multiple members of the Lebanese parliament resigned in protest, including Marwan Hamadeh, Paula Yacoubian, all three Kataeb Party MPs, Neemat Frem, Michel Moawad, Dima Jamali, and Henri Helou. The Lebanese ambassador to Jordan, Tracy Chamoun, also resigned on live television. On the night of 6 August, the protests against the government that had been ongoing since the previous October resumed, with dozens of protestors near the parliament building calling for the resignation of Lebanese government officials. On 8 August, Diab called for early elections, saying it would be the only way for the country to exit the crisis.
On 9 August, the information minister of Lebanon, Manal Abdel Samad, and then the environment minister, Damianos Kattar, resigned, the first government resignations since the explosion. On 10 August, the justice minister, Marie-Claude Najm, also resigned, followed by the resignation of the entire Lebanese cabinet. Shortly after the resignation of the cabinet, Lebanese Prime Minister Hassan Diab stepped down from office. President Michel Aoun accepted the resignation of the government and the Prime Minister, and asked the government to stay on in a caretaker capacity until a new cabinet is formed.
The Ground-0 Relief Committee, an initiative by the Lebanese Forces Party, launched a petition for an international investigation. The petition was signed by the relatives of the victims and the missing, by the injured as well as by those whose homes, businesses, or establishments have been damaged. The document was sent to the UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, through his special coordinator for Lebanon, Ján Kubiš, in order to take the necessary steps to appoint an international commission of inquiry.
The Lebanese Forces Party MPs called for an international investigation into the causes of the double explosion at the port of Beirut on 4 August 2020. They asked the Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, on 22 February 2021 for the creation of an international commission to be established under the United Nations, which would be responsible for carrying out the investigations. The Members of Parliament, Georges Okais, Imad Wakim, Eddy Abillammaa, and Fady Saad, presented a petition to this effect to the United Nations Special Coordinator in Lebanon, Najat Rochdi.
International
Representatives of multiple countries, as well as the United Nations (UN), offered condolences. In addition to those countries which provided aid, others offered to do so. Notably, Israel offered aid via UN channels, as Israel and Lebanon have no diplomatic ties and are technically at war; the offer was refused by the Lebanese government. Former Israeli Member of Knesset Moshe Feiglin hailed the tragedy as a gift from God, celebrating the incident and describing it as a "spectacular firework show." Despite years of conflict, including the 2006 Lebanon War, both Israel and senior Hezbollah officials ruled out Israeli involvement in the explosion, despite claims and allegations spread via social media.
The International Charter on Space and Major Disasters was activated on 5 August, thus providing for widespread usage of various corporate, national, and international satellite assets on a humanitarian basis. Several countries expressed solidarity by lighting up landmarks and monuments in the colors of the Lebanese flag, including the Tel Aviv City Hall, whereas the Eiffel Tower in Paris went dark at midnight, and the Arab League flew its flag at its headquarters in Cairo at half-mast. Some figures from the right-wing criticized the display of the flag of Lebanon, an "enemy state", in Tel Aviv. There was also backlash inside Lebanon against the Israeli gesture.
Following the explosion, the Netherlands, Turkey, and the United Kingdom sent search and rescue teams. Egypt sent several planes with tons of medical aid and food to Lebanon. The Egyptian embassy also established a field hospital. On 5 August 2020, Qatar started providing urgent medical aid. The Qatari Emiri Air Force delivered field hospitals, respirators, and generators to Beirut. In addition, Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani donated US$50 million to Lebanon. On 6 August 2020, Kuwait provided 36 tonnes of urgent humanitarian and medical aid to Lebanon including wheelchairs, blood bags, and 10 ambulances.
As a result of the explosion, concerns were raised about the storage of ammonium nitrate in other ports across the world. Large quantities of the chemical compound were removed from storage in Egypt, India, Romania, and Senegal.
On April 30, 2021, German firm Combi Lift which had loaded its ship with 59 containers of hazardous substances left Beirut port for disposal in Europe.
In August 2021, a memorial event marking the one-year-anniversary of the explosion was held in tribute to the victims at the Port of Beirut, joined by UN officials and International Labour Organization Regional Director Ruba Jaradat.
In December 2021, the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe, United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, United Nations Environment Programme, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, International Labour Organization, and International Maritime Organization held a seminar in follow-up to the explosion. National governments of Lebanon, Estonia, France, South Africa, and others shared lessons learned from the explosion. The seminar called for action to better manage the risks of chemicals in ports.
Conspiracy theories
Numerous conspiracy theories emerged on social media in the days following the explosion. The main themes were that there was a significant weapons cache belonging to Hezbollah stored at the Port of Beirut, and that Israel wished to destroy those weapons. The theories said that Israel launched an attack and the level of destruction took them by surprise. Israel, Lebanon, and Hezbollah all denied this theory, and blame the ammonium nitrate stored in the port.
See also
- List of 21st-century explosions
- Largest artificial non-nuclear explosions
- List of industrial disasters
- Halifax Explosion
- Texas City disaster
- 2015 Tianjin explosions
- 2022 Sitakunda fire
Notes
- The captain, Boris Prokoshev, wrote that Grechushkin had told him he had gone bankrupt, but noted that he did not believe Grechushkin.
- Ammonium nitrate has a long history of industrial disasters globally, and thus has been gradually phased out over concerns for misuse and safety.
- Because the explosion occurred on the earth's surface, the seismic waves generated by the blast are not as strong as they would have been had the equivalent amount of energy been released from underground sources.
- As a point of comparison, the Halifax Explosion in 1917 (which was not caused by ammonium nitrate) was the world's largest non-nuclear explosion, releasing the equivalent energy of roughly 2.9 kilotons of TNT (12,000 GJ).
- Other hazardous materials stored at the port included hydrofluoric acid oxidizer, benzoyl peroxide, calcium hypochlorite, picric acid, oils and several unknown chemicals. On 3 September 2020, the Lebanese Army announced that they found an additional 4.35 tonnes of ammonium nitrate in the customs' "Detention Port", outside the seaport near entrance number 9.
- The five injured were connected to the Dutch embassy. The Dutch ambassador's wife, Hedwig Waltmans-Molier, was seriously injured and later died of her injuries.
- The Kazakhstani consul was wounded in his office.
- Among the dead were forty-three Syrian, thirteen Armenian, five Bangladeshi, four Filipino, three Egyptian, two Belgian, two Canadian, two Palestinian, one French, one Italian, one Ethiopian, one Greek, one Dutch, one Pakistani, one Australian, one German, and one American national. Among the injured were one hundred and eight Bangladeshi, forty-two Filipino, twenty-four French, fifteen Sri Lankan, ten Italian, nine Ethiopian, seven Jordanian, six Turkish, five Dutch, five Greek, five Indian, five Sudanese, four Belgian, four Pakistani, three Kenyan, two Algerian, one Chinese, one Indonesian, one Kazakhstani, one Moroccan, one Nigerian, one Portuguese and one Vietnamese national.
- The palace had been restored over a twenty-year period following the civil war of 1975–1990.
- A Red Notice seeks the location and arrest of wanted persons wanted for prosecution or to serve a sentence.
- Countries that sent aid or offered to send aid include: Armenia, Australia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Brazil, Canada, China, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Italy, Jordan, Kuwait, Morocco, Netherlands, Norway, Pakistan, Poland, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, and United States. Intergovernmental organizations which sent aid include the European Union, the United Nations, and the World Health Organization.
- Sri Lanka donated 1,675 kilos of Ceylon tea to those affected by the Beirut blast; however, the gift was distributed to the families of the soldiers in the Presidential Guard Brigade. In addition, 12 tons of fish donated by Mauritania were not distributed to the public, as the army only mentioned that they "stored it according to public safety standards". Iraq has sent 13,000 tons of wheat/flour to Lebanon; however, 7,000 tons of them were poorly stockpiled in the Camille Chamoun Sports City Stadium.
- In the meantime, Die Welt reported, according to the intelligence information, that Hezbollah received a total of 270 tons of ammonium nitrate on 16 July 2013, delivered from Iran to Lebanon. On 23 October of the same year, another 270 tons of ammonium nitrate were delivered, in addition to a third delivery, which made the three deliveries equal to a quantity of 630 to 670 tons of ammonium nitrate. The second delivery was transported by plane, probably by Mahan Air, while the other deliveries were made by sea or land, for example across the Syrian border. Mohammad Qasir who has been responsible for Hezbollah's logistics for 20 years was also responsible for paying for the ammonium nitrate deliveries. In September 2020, the U.S. state department's counterterrorism coordinator, Nathan Sales, mentioned in a video appearance at the American Jewish Committee that: "I can reveal that such caches have been moved through Belgium to France, Greece, Italy, Spain and Switzerland. I can also reveal that significant ammonium nitrate caches have been discovered or destroyed in France, Greece, and Italy".
- Others include the Belfast City Hall, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the Great Pyramid near Giza, the King Road Tower in Jeddah, the Kuwait Towers in Kuwait City, the Los Angeles City Hall, the headquarters of the Palestine Broadcasting Corporation in Ramallah, the Sydney Opera House, the Azadi Tower in Tehran, and the National Assembly and Yerevan City Hall in Yerevan.
- Meanwhile, Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa Al-Kadhimi ordered the formation of a committee to remove hazardous inventories accumulated at the border ports. Subsequently, hazardous material was removed from storage inside Umm Qasr Port.
References
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- McRae, Mike (19 March 2021). "The Tragic Beirut Explosion Was So Violent, It Disturbed Earth's Ionosphere". ScienceAlert. Archived from the original on 5 December 2023. Retrieved 29 September 2023.
- Ozdemir, Derya (18 March 2021). "The Beirut Explosion's Atmospheric Wave Shook the Ionosphere". interestingengineering.com. Archived from the original on 20 December 2023. Retrieved 29 September 2023.
- ^ Kim, Keehoon; Pasyanos, Michael E. (16 December 2022). "Yield Estimation of the August 2020 Beirut Explosion by Using Physics-Based Propagation Simulations of Regional Infrasound". Geophysical Research Letters. 49 (23). Bibcode:2022GeoRL..4901118K. doi:10.1029/2022GL101118. ISSN 0094-8276.
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Further reading
- Majzoub, Aya (3 August 2021). "'They Killed Us from the Inside': An Investigation into the August 4 Beirut Blast". Human Rights Watch.
External links
- Beirut Explosion – in Pictures by The Guardian
- In Pictures: Huge Explosion Rocks Beirut by CNN
- Photos: Explosion Leaves Beirut in Shatters by NPR
- The Lebanon Explosions in Photos by The New York Times
- Explosion in Beirut: Photos From a City Still Reeling From the Blast by Time
- Before and after satellite photos from CNN
- Map of the Port of Beirut with several warehouses numbered, including Warehouse 12 next to the silos
- Forensic Architecture overview
- Slow-motion footage of the blast
- The International Seismological Centre has a bibliography and/or authoritative data for this event.
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