The Lebanese Supreme Defense Council recommended that Beirut be declared a disaster city after a massive double explosion in its port on Tuesday, August 4, that a state of emergency be declared for two weeks in the capital and that the army be charged with ensure security there.

An explosion of considerable power devastated the port of Beirut and part of the city, killing at least 78 people and injuring nearly 4,000 others. Authorities have said they expect the toll to rise further, as rescue teams continue to search the rubble.

Prime Minister Hassan Diab declared Wednesday a national day of mourning and pledged that those responsible should "be held to account". The government points the finger at a cargo of ammonium nitrate stored "without precautionary measures" at the port.

France will send a civil security detachment and "several tonnes of medical equipment", announced President Emmanuel Macron on Twitter.

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