Washington, August 6 (RHC)-- The World Bank Group said it stands ready to assess Lebanon's damage and needs after a devastating Beirut port explosion and work with the country's partners to mobilize public and private financing for reconstruction and recovery.

The World Bank said in a statement that it "would be also willing to reprogram existing resources and explore additional financing to support rebuilding lives and livelihoods of people impacted by this disaster." 

In related news, the United Nations is working closely with the authorities in Lebanon to support ongoing response in the aftermath of the massive explosion, UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq told reporters.

"The World Health Organization is working closely with the Lebanese Ministry of Health to conduct an assessment of hospital facilities in Beirut, their functionality and needs for additional support, particularly amid the COVID-19 pandemic,” he said.

"Specialists are being dispatched to Beirut at the moment to assist in the emergency response, both from the United Nations and multiple Member States.  Experts are en route to support urban search and rescue operations.  Teams are also equipped to conduct rapid assessments about the situation on the ground and help coordinate emergency response activities."