Iran's Zarif to Meet With Officials in Lebanon on Friday

Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif will meet with officials in Lebanon on Friday, the ministry said in a statement, following the massive blast that destroyed swathes of Beirut.

Zarif is set to discuss the "latest developments following the recent devastating blast, ongoing Iranian aid and other bilateral issues," the foreign ministry said Thursday, without specifying which officials Zarif would meet.

The massive explosion at Beirut's port on August 4 killed 171 people and injured 6,500.

Zarif's visit will be the first by an Iranian official since the blast, and comes after a planned trip by First Vice President Eshaq Jahangiri was cancelled.

Jahangiri had been expected on Monday but the trip was called off after Lebanese prime minister Hassan Diab announced the resignation of his government, ISNA news agency reported.

Iran wields huge influence in Lebanon through the Shiite group Hezbollah, which was strongly represented in the outgoing government and has an alliance with the faction of Christian President Michel Aoun.

Photo: IRNA

Iran Airs Support for 'Resilient' Lebanese After Blasts

Iran's top diplomat expressed Tehran's support for the "resilient" people of Lebanon after Beirut was rocked by devastating explosions on Tuesday.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the great and resilient people of Lebanon," Mohammad Javad Zarif tweeted.

"As always, Iran is fully prepared to render assistance in any way necessary," he said.

"Stay strong, Lebanon," added the Iranian foreign minister.

At least 27 people were killed and 2,500 injured, according to "preliminary estimates" announced by Lebanese Health Minister Hamad Hassan.

The explosions hit Beirut's port, flattening buildings in the vicinity and sending out shockwaves for kilometres (miles).

The cause was not immediately known.

Photo: IRNA