Toll expected to rise in blast that shook Beirut, killing 78 and injuring thousands

13 Sept 09:54 Key points summarised by AI

A catastrophic warehouse explosion in Beirut killed 78 people and injured nearly 4,000, with officials anticipating a significant rise in the death toll as rescue efforts continue.
The blast stemmed from 2,750 tonnes of highly explosive ammonium nitrate, stored unsafely at the port for six years, a situation President Michel Aoun condemned as "unacceptable."
The disaster caused widespread devastation, reigniting memories of Lebanon's civil war, and compounded Beirut's existing economic crisis and struggle with coronavirus infections.
Prime Minister Hassan Diab pledged accountability for the deadly incident, while international offers of aid emerged, and the U.S. embassy warned residents about potential toxic gases.

Bai Lu meet-and-greet cancelled days after China’s safety warning

Today 15:28 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Tourism and Sports Minister announced the government will seek clarification from the Chinese Embassy regarding its recent travel advisory warning Chinese nationals about safety concerns in Thailand.
The travel advisory is anticipated to negatively impact the number of Chinese tourists visiting Thailand, despite recent increases in arrivals.
A meet-and-greet event featuring Chinese actress Bai Lu, a WeTV Global Ambassador, was abruptly cancelled just days after the Chinese Embassy issued its safety warning, though no official reason was provided.
The Chinese Embassy's advisory urged citizens to beware of job scams, fraudulent investments, suspicious travel arrangements, and the risk of illegal detention or being lured to the Thai-Myanmar border.
Chinese nationals were advised to verify job offers, use legitimate transport, avoid high-risk border areas, protect personal documents, and keep family informed of travel plans.