Image @ TALAL TRABOULSI / REUTERS
On Tuesday 4th July, Beirut the capital and largest city of Lebanon witnessed a devastating explosion. Lebanon is already in the midst of crumbling economy, political unrest, with already massive food and fuel shortages and a global pandemic.
Beirut explosion:
A massive explosion left Lebanon in crisis destroying homes and buildings, further overwhelming hospitals. Thousands have been injured (current count is 6000 plus) and at least 158 have been found dead. Over 100 people also missing and over 300,000 displaced from their homes. These numbers are unfortunately merely just the beginning. The country is in dire need of our help.
It is said that 2750 tons of ammonium nitrate has been sitting near the port for seven years. Ammonium nitrate is extremely dangerous. A huge store of highly reactive chemical ammonium nitrate detonated and blew up the port area, sending a shockwave across the city. However, full details of the explosion and the trigger still remain unclear.
Consequently, the port of Beirut, the main entry point for imports like wheat and medical supplies has been completely demolished.The port served as the country’s economic lifeline, leaving the Lebanon in shambles. Medical supplies stored in a warehouse close to the Beirut port has also been destroyed. According to the Lebanese National News Agency, the value of the damage caused ranges between $3 and $5 billion.
Lebanon’s current battles:
Prior to the explosion, Lebanon has been facing political unrest, an economic crisis and famine. In October 2019 the Thawra revolution was activated. This was due to the Prime Minister increasing the prices of taxes, tobacco and gas etc. Furthermore, Lebanese protestors have taken to the streets due to the lack of infrastructure, rising inflation and unemployment. Lebanese people have been peacefully protesting against government corruption and the economic crisis which has been ongoing for the last ten months and many years before also.
Additionally, since October the Lebanese pound has lost over 86% of its value and the monetary crisis has led to Lebanon having the 3rd highest inflation rate in the world. This has resulted in numerous challenges which will only be heightened by the aftermath of the explosion.
Famine in Lebanon:
Lebanon is on the verge of starvation with fears that it may repeat the 1915-1918 famine. Additionally, on average food prices have risen by 55%. More than half of the country also relies on food banks that are increasingly facing pressure. The aftermath of the explosion will only add to this as food imports will be reduced.
There is also an increased concern over a second wave of coronavirus as those with a weaker immune system are more likely to die. Healthcare is extremely underfunded and there is a shortage of medical supplies and PPE. Furthermore, one of the leading doctors in Beirut has said that the aftermath of the blast will lead to an increase in cases of the virus.
Ways you can help Lebanon right now:
There is a lot circulating around the media on how to help Lebanon correctly. We are in an extremely privileged position and it’s important that we don’t let this disaster go ignored. Petitions are not as useful as donations, but this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t sign them. People have been protesting in Lebanon since 2019 but donations are the most beneficial.
The best way is through the Lebanon Red Cross. The Lebanese Red Cross provides its services through emergency medical services, social services, blood transfusion services and disaster management. Due to the devaluation of the Lebanese Lira, ensure that your donation is in USD. Download the Lebanese Red Cross app from the App Store and donate through there.
FURTHER WAYS TO HELP AND LEARN:
EVERY CLICK ON THIS LINK IS A DONATION
WATCH THIS VIDEO TO DONATE AD REVENUE (DO NOT SKIP ADS)
Misconceptions and misinformation:
Beirut is a beautiful city full of breath-taking art, architecture, food and fascinating culture and history. Therefore, I suggest people read the below thread on why it is vital to stop normalising tragedy in the Middle East. What happened in Lebanon is not something that they are used to, and it should be treated with the same respect as anywhere else in the world.
Additionally, there is a lot of misinformation regarding the blast. Checking resources before sharing is extremely important. People are mourning and thus we must help and treat the situation with respect.
Why are people protesting?
Thousands of people are protesting against Lebanese leadership after the deadly blast demanding answers from authorities. Lebanese protestors are frustrated by the way in which the aftermath of the explosion was handled by the government. Moreover, they are protesting against all of the battles they have been facing for years.
Keep sharing:
Keep sharing, raise awareness and donate if you can. The port of Beirut is at risk of fully shutting down preventing incoming food and medical supplies. This was a horrific explosion that wiped out the country’s infrastructure. This has come in the middle of a deadly pandemic, a deteriorating economy and a very hostile political atmosphere. We must come together and help. We pray for the city of Beirut and all those who lost their lives in this tragedy.