Middle East

In pictures: Chaos and destruction in Beirut after blast

  • 5 August 2020
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The aftermath of the blast at the site Image copyright Reuters
Image caption The site of the blast was left completely destroyed

Beirut, the capital of Lebanon, is reeling from a huge blast, which has killed dozens, injured thousands and caused widespread destruction in the city.

There are reports that the blast could be felt hundreds of kilometres away in Cyprus.

Officials blame the blast on several thousand tonnes of ammonium nitrate, stored in a warehouse for six years.

It is not clear what caused the material to explode.

A street left entirely destroyed by the blast Image copyright Reuters
Image caption The whole city was shaken by the explosion
Men ride a motorcycle past a damaged building Image copyright Reuters
Image caption The blast has destroyed many homes and businesses
Damaged vehicles and buildings are seen near the site of Tuesday's blast Image copyright Reuters
Image caption Buildings were left completely gutted by the explosion
A soldier walks through the streets of Beirut Image copyright Reuters
Image caption The explosion comes as Lebanon struggles with an economic crisis and the pandemic
Staff move a gurney in a damaged hospital Image copyright Reuters
Image caption Hospitals are said to be overwhelmed
A man carries away an injured girl in Beirut Image copyright Getty Images
Image caption A man carries away an injured girl in Beirut
A migrant worker reacts in shock following an explosion at the Beirut Port Image copyright EPA
Image caption The streets were chaotic in the moments after the explosion

All photos subject to copyright.

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