Fijians are saddened and stunned by the devastating explosion in Lebanon which has claimed at least 70 lives – PM

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama says Fijians are saddened and stunned by the devastating explosion at Beirut Port in Lebanon which has claimed at least 70 lives.

The BBC reports that a large blast in the Lebanese capital, Beirut, has killed at least 70 people and injured more than 4,000 others.

Bainimarama says our peacekeepers in the region are ready to help in any way Fiji can.

The Prime Minister further says our prayers are with the families of the victims, the thousands who have been injured, and the staff of United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon.

The BBC reports that videos show smoke billowing from a fire, then a mushroom cloud following the blast at the city's port.

Officials are blaming highly explosive materials stored in a warehouse for six years.

President Michel Aoun tweeted it was "unacceptable" that 2,750 tonnes of ammonium nitrate was stored unsafely.

An investigation is under way to find the exact trigger for the explosion.

Lebanon's Supreme Defence Council said those responsible would face the "maximum punishment" possible.

Hospitals are said to be overwhelmed and many buildings have been destroyed.