A huge explosion rocked through the city of Beirut on Tuesday, as reports have it that many were killed and also injured in the surprised blast. It comes ahead of the verdict in a trial over the killing of ex-PM Rafik Hariri in 2005.
The cause of the Beirut blast which was said to be a twin blast is yet to be ascertained as at the time of this report, and while all fingers are pointing to Isreal, there is yet to be an official statement from Lebanon on the blasts.
Video posted online showed a large mushroom cloud and extensive damage.
Since the blasts a few hours ago, world leaders and others have taken to their social media to condemn the act, even though no one has claimed responsibility.
A UN tribunal is due to issue its verdict in the trial of four suspects in the murder by car bomb of Rafik Hariri.
All four are members of the Iranian-backed Hezbollah group, which has consistently denied any role in Hariri’s death. They are being tried in absentia and the verdict is due on Friday.
The possible second explosion was reported to be at the Hariri residence in the city.