Tragedy and Fear Arise in Beirut

Written By Caliegh Calvey

Yesterday in Beirut, Lebanon, at the Port of Beirut a cloud of smoke was spotted, then around 6:08 p.m. a massive explosion occurred. The blast was so powerful that it was reportedly felt in Israel and Cyprus and blew debris up to 6 miles away. A known 78 people are dead and more than 2,000 are injured. 

 In the hours that shortly followed users on social media sites such as Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook circulated a rumor that the explosion took place at a fireworks storage warehouse. After an investigation was led, the cause of the catastrophe was determined to be linked to 2,750 tons of ammonium nitrate having been improperly stored at a warehouse for the past six years. According to Wikipedia the ammonium nitrate was brought to the Port of Beirut by a Moldovan cargo ship that was experiencing engine troubles. 

One of the known casualties is Nazar Najarian, who was secretary-general of the right wing Kataeb Party. Lebanese Prime Minister, Hassan Diab has reportedly stated that the next day is to be a day of mourning in Lebanon and that those who are responsible for this catastrophe will face consequences.

The TSR team would like to offer our thoughts, prayers, and condolences to the people of Lebanon and to those who have been affected by this tragedy.