World Vision Statement on Beirut Port Explosion

“We are saddened and horrified by the explosion which occurred in the Port area of Beirut at 6pm. Thousands of people are injured. The total number of casualties is still undetermined, but we know dozens have been killed. The cause of the blast is still unknown.

“Two World Vision staff received minor injuries and received treatment. They are in a stable condition. We are extremely concerned for the health and safety of the people of Beirut, especially the thousands who were injured today. We pray for their fast recovery, and we pray for those who killed and their families,’’ says Hans Bederski, National Director for World Vision Lebanon.

“We are concerned for the health and safety of the people in Lebanon, especially the thousands who were injured today. We pray for their fast recovery, and we pray for the souls of those who passed away in this tragic blast. We are currently checking the situation and condition of our staff. The National Office and a World Vision warehouse were damaged in the explosion.”

BACKGROUND

World Vision has been working in Lebanon since the onset of the civil war in Lebanon in 1975 and continues to assist Lebanese families in addition to refugee communities through emergency relief, development projects, as well as advocacy.

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