The football fraternity has reacted to news of an explosion in Beirut that led to the death and injury of many on Tuesday afternoon. At least 70 people have reportedly been killed while more than 2,700 have been left injured in a huge blast in the Lebanese capital's port area.
Numerous footages that circulated on social media showed massive destruction in different parts of the city and a lot of chaotic scenes. The cause of the explosion remains unclear but word from authorities in Lebanon has given little to no room for any sense of foul play or external influence to emerge.
In a statement by the country's Internal Security Forces commander Major General Imad Osman, it was revealed that the blast took place in a warehouse storage area where highly explosive materials that had been confiscated were kept. Prime Minister Diab subsequently revealed the explosive materials were tons of ammonium nitrate that had been abandoned for over six years. He added that officials responsible for the negligence would be held accountable.
The international community swiftly rallied to assist in any manner possible while tributes have been pouring for the affected persons since the blast was reported. Below are some from notable football brands and personalities:
Our condolences and support to all those affected by the explosion in Beirut. Our hearts are with you. pic.twitter.com/tpkty76obM
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 4, 2020
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— Kylian Mbappé (@KMbappe) August 4, 2020
Toutes mes prières vont aux victimes de cette explosion à Beyrouth.
Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by the horrific explosion in Beirut.
— Borussia Dortmund (@BlackYellow) August 4, 2020
Stay safe, Lebanon pic.twitter.com/rr80Ll5ysT
The thoughts of everyone at Leicester City are with those affected by the explosion in Beirut.
— Leicester City (@LCFC) August 4, 2020
Our thoughts this evening are with all those affected by the explosion in Beirut, Lebanon today.
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) August 4, 2020
Stay strong.
The thoughts of everyone at the Club are with all those affected by today's explosion in Beirut
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) August 4, 2020
#PrayForLebanon pic.twitter.com/v8mLDmcrIO
— Erling Haaland (@ErlingHaaland) August 4, 2020
The thoughts from everyone at Atlético de Madrid are with those affected by the terrible explosion in Beirut.
— Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) August 4, 2020