(TAN): The Beirut explosion on Aug. 4 evening took place near the city’s port, close to several tourist sites and densely populated areas.
The historic Martyrs’ Square; the Gemmayzeh and Mar Mikhael neighborhoods; the landmark Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque; and Baabda Palace, the official residence of the Lebanese President, are all located close to Beirut explosion site, as are popular bars, a CNN report said.
Lebanon’s capital is known for its excellent museums and East-meets-West vibe that attracts visitors.
At least 100 people have died and around have been 4,000 injured in the blast that took place at 1807 hours local time. Al Jazeera cited Beirut governor Marwan Abboud as saying said up to 300,000 people had lost their homes.
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The explosion has been linked to a huge amount of potentially unsecured explosive material stored in a warehouse.
Lebanon President Michel Aoun said on Aug. 5 that an investigation into the Beirut explosion would be conducted at the earliest and the results would be revealed transparently.
The explosion was heard and felt as far away as Cyprus more than 200 kilometers away.