Explosion in Beirut Destroys About 85 Percent of Country's Grain Reserves

On the evening of August 4, an explosion in Beirut destroyed the main grain storage facility in the country, where about 85 percent of its reserves were kept. This was reported by the Associated Press.

The agency, citing aerial footage, stated that the grain storage facility was completely devastated. Lebanese Economy Minister Raoul Nehme announced that the grain stored at the port has completely spoiled and is no longer usable.

However, Nehme noted that there is sufficient grain available in Lebanon for consumption. He stated that Lebanon will increase the volume of grain imports. Nehme told the agency that Lebanon needs at least three months' worth of grain reserves to ensure food security and is currently searching for new areas for storage facilities.

The powerful explosion occurred in the vicinity of the port of the Lebanese capital on the evening of August 4. Many buildings suffered damage or were destroyed. According to Reuters, the explosion was so powerful that it was felt even in Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus, located 200 km away from Beirut.