In devastated Beirut, French leader offers comfort and a hug

It was one of most powerful moments of Emmanuel Macron’s lightning visit to devastated Beirut: confronted by a distraught woman in a sea of enrd residents, French leer stopped and offered her a hug.

On a tour of destruction, Macron got a first-hand glimpse of public fury toward Lebanese leership, who are widely blamed for corruption and neglect that allowed 2,750 tons of highly explosive ammonium nitrate to ignite in a massive blast that killed more than 130 people and left tens of thousands homeless.

A large crowd gared around Macron and began chanting anti-government slogans.

“You are sitting with warlords. y have been manipulating us for past year,” shouted woman, wearing a mask.

Macron, also wearing a mask, assured her he understood her concerns. “I’m t here to help m. I’m here to help you,” he said.

crowd cheered as moments later, Macron comforted woman with a warm embrace.

gesture was characteristic of Macron, who is kwn at home for engaging public and even giving strangers handshakes and polite kisses on cheek.

France once governed Leban as a protectorate and maintains close ties with tiny Mideast country. During his visit, Macron promised crowd he would speak to Leban’s political leers and vowed to protect against corruption as aid money is delivered.