⁍ Lebanese security officials warned the prime minister and president last month that 2,750 tonnes of ammonium nitrate stored in Beirut’s port posed a security risk.

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⁍ The industrial chemicals exploded in a massive blast that obliterated most of the port, killing at least 163 people, injured 6,000 more and destroyed some 6,000 buildings.

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– The huge blast that rocked Beirut last week was caused by 2,750 tons of ammonium nitrate—and security officials knew it was dangerous before the disaster. According to a report seen by Reuters, Lebanese security officials warned President Michel Aoun and Prime Minister Hassan Diab last month that the ammonium nitrate stored in Beirut’s port posed a security risk and could destroy the capital if it exploded. “There was a danger that this material, if stolen, could be used in a terrorist attack,” a security official says. “I warned them that this could destroy Beirut if it exploded.” The July 20 letter was sent to Aoun and Diab by the General Directorate of State Security, which oversees port security. Aoun confirmed last week that he had been informed about the ammonium nitrate, which was unloaded in October 2014 and stored in what was known as Hangar 12. “I am not responsible,” Aoun said. “I don’t know where it was put and I didn’t know how dangerous it was. I have no authority to deal with the port directly. There is a hierarchy and all those who knew should have their duties to do the necessary.” Aoun’s office and Diab’s office didn’t respond to requests for comment about the July 20 letter. The explosion killed at least 163 people, injured 6,000 more, and destroyed around 6,000 buildings. Lebanon is expected to cost up to $15 billion to rebuild.