World donors demand change before money to rebuild Beirut

BEIRUT: World leaders and international organisations pledged nearly $300 million in emergency humanitarian aid to Beirut in the wake of the devastating explosion, but warned that no money for rebuilding the capital will be made available until Lebanese authorities commit themselves to the political and economic reforms demanded by the people. Over 30 participants to the international conference on Sunday offered help for a “credible and independent” investigation into the August 4 Beirut explosion, another key demand of the Lebanese crowds who took to the streets on Saturday and Sunday. In Beirut, two Lebanese Cabinet ministers, including a top aid to the premier, resigned amid signals that...