Beirut Blast: Death Toll Jumps to 171

Lebanese acting Health Minister Hamad Hasan on Tuesday said that the death toll from a massive explosion in the capital Beirut has climbed to 171.

In statements, the acting health minister said that the number of missing people from the blast ranged between 30 and 40.

He also added that about 1500 injured person are in a mass need to a special treatment, while 120 wounded people are in the intensive care.

It is worth mentioning that, the explosion occurred just two days before the international tribunal investigating the killing of former Prime Minister Rafik El-Hariri, in 2005, is set to announce its decision.

The huge explosion was caused by a large blaze that erupted at a warehouse in Beirut Port, which contained firecrackers, according to primary information.

Many building facades and cars were damaged. The explosion left several people injured.