Monarchs from across Europe, Africa and the Middle East have joined Queen Elizabeth II and Jordan’s King Abdullah in sending condolences to Lebanon’s President Michel Aoun after the explosion that left massive devastation in Beirut on Tuesday.
King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima said: “Beirut is in shock following a disaster of unprecedented proportions. With the Lebanese people so severely affected, our thoughts are with everyone who is grieving and afraid. We would like to convey our heartfelt sympathy to those who have lost loved ones, and we wish the many injured strength and as rapid a recovery as possible. The international community stands with you.”
Luxembourg’s Grand Duke Henri said: “This is a tragedy that touches us all.” He went on to say: “With the Luxembourg people, we express our deep sympathy to you and to the Lebanese people as a whole. Our deepest feelings of compassion go out to the families affected by this tragedy.”
The Grand Duke’s wife, Grand Duchess Maria Teresa, wrote on Twitter through the Stand Speak Up Rise account, “My thoughts are with Lebanon and the victims of the terrible explosion that occurred yesterday in Beirut. A tragedy that adds to the difficult situation in this country so dear to my heart. Dear Lebanese, my heart is with you.” She added the hashtags #prayforLebanon and #Beirutblast on her personal account.
Prince Albert of Monaco offered his “unwavering support” to the Lebanese people. He said: “Deeply marked by the tragic explosions at the Port of Beirut which have just mourned and plunged your country into suffering, I would like to express to you all my compassion in the face of this tragedy and to assure you of my unwavering support in this so painful ordeal that your country is going through.”
King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden said: “The Queen and I wish to express our deepest and most sincere condolences on the tragic loss of lives and immense destruction caused by the explosion in Beirut on Tuesday afternoon. We offer our heartfelt sympathies to the families of the victims and to the people of Lebanon.”
The King of Morocco, Mohammed VI, sent his condolences and “sincere feelings of compassion,” according to Royal Communications. The King wished the injured a speedy recovery and peace for those who lost loved ones. He also expressed his and the Moroccan people’s solidarity with the Lebanese people.
Dubai’s Sheikh Mohammed, who also serves as Vice President of the UAE, sent 30 tonnes of medical equipment to Lebanon. King Salman of Saudi Arabia has ordered that urgent humanitarian aid be sent to Beirut.
