Invitation to a site visit and press briefing on the Beirut blast

Who   : Ted Chaiban, UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa
  
When :  Monday, 17 August starting 1:30 PM
 
Where: Beirut: Gemmayze, Mar Mikhayel
 
The UNICEF Regional Director will visit children and families impacted by the blast. In his press interactions, he will showcase UNICEF’s response to the immense needs and provide the latest update on UNICEF’s efforts and commitment to support people in Lebanon in rebuilding their city.
 
The blast in Beirut on 4 August was one of the biggest in the history of the Middle East and one of the largest in recent history.

UNICEF estimates that 100,000 children have been directly affected. Many are now traumatised and live in shock.
According to reports, at least three children were killed, 1,000 were injured including 32 who required hospitalization.

At least three hospitals were severely damaged or destroyed. Of the 55 medical facilities in the area, half are non-operational. Around 40 per cent have suffered moderate to serious damage and need rehabilitation.

At least 120 public and private schools were damaged, some severely.

The blast in Beirut added to what has already been a terrible crisis for the people of Lebanon compounded by an economic collapse and a surge in COVID-19 cases. Over the past 48 hours, the numbers of confirmed COVID cases continues to rapidly increase.

To confirm your attendance: 
Blanche Baz, bbaz@unicef.org, +961 3 331874
Maya Outayek, moutayek@unicef.org. +961 70 190634
Hasan Nabulsi, hnabulsi@unicef.org, +962-79-136-8-405