An air bridge has been created from Cairo to Beirut to carry emergency supplies to help Lebanon cope with the aftermath of the massive blast at the city port on 4 August 2020. Lebanese officials said the explosion was caused by ammonium nitrate, 2,750 tons of which had been stored in a warehouse at the city port for six years after being confiscated from a ship.
According to Lebanon’s health ministry, the explosion killed at least 150 people and injured around 5,000, working carnage on the city. Silos carrying 80 per cent of Lebanon’s stock of grain were burned down in the blast.
Egypt is sending aid that includes food, medical supplies, specialised medical teams, and construction materials and glass panels for reconstruction. An Egyptian field hospital in Beirut provides aid to victims.
Pope Tawadros II sent a message of sympathy and condolence to the Lebanese people:
“On my behalf, and on behalf of Egypt’s Coptic Orthodox Church, I extend my sincere condolences and sympathy to our brothers in Lebanon; government and people, for the victims of the explosion that took place in Beirut.
“We pray to God for a speedy recovery for the injured, and to grant peace and tranquility to the souls horrified by this painful incident. May the Lord protect Lebanon from all evil.”
In solidarity with Lebanon, the Giza Pyramids in Egypt lit up with the Lebanese flag. On social media, Egyptians widely expressed sorrow and sympathy with the Lebanese people under the hashtag #prayforbeirut #Lebanon.
Watani International
10 August 2020