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A devastating explosion has struck a densely populated area in southern Lebanon, leaving multiple fatalities and injuring scores of others. The blast occurred around 6:00 PM local time in the city of Sidon, which is the third-largest city in Lebanon.
Reports indicate that a car bomb exploded in the midst of a bustling marketplace, sending shockwaves throughout the city. Eyewitnesses described hearing a massive explosion followed by deafening screams, as panicked civilians fled in all directions.
“We were just walking through the market, and suddenly we heard a huge explosion,” said Amal Hassan, a local resident who was at the scene. “I saw people lying on the ground, and others were running away in fear. It was absolute chaos.”
The cause of the blast is still unknown, with authorities working to determine the origin and perpetrators. However, a spokesperson for the Lebanese Red Cross reported that the death toll had risen to 13 with over 40 critically injured. Multiple ambulances were dispatched to the area to render aid to the injured.
“This is a tragic loss for our community,” said a Lebanese security official, who declined to be named. “We will do everything in our power to identify those responsible for this heinous act and bring them to justice.”
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with many calling for increased security measures to prevent such attacks in the future.
“We must take action to prevent such incidents from occurring again,” said Dr. Samir Geagea, a prominent Lebanese politician. “Our government must do more to address the root causes of extremism and ensure that our citizens are safe and secure.”
The international community has also issued statements of solidarity with the people of Lebanon.
“We stand in solidarity with the people of Lebanon and offer our deepest condolences to those affected by this tragedy,” said a State Department spokesperson.
This is a developing story, and as more information becomes available, we will provide updates.
Today News National