US: FBI to join investigation of Beirut's blast

The U.S. Under Secretary for Political Affairs on Thursday said the Federal Bureau of Investigation will be joining Lebanese and other international investigators in investigating the causes of the deadly Beirut port blast.

David Hale made the remarks during a visit to one of the impacted neighbourhoods in Beirut, saying that the FBI will take part at the invitation of Lebanese authorities.

He said the participation in the probe is one of the ways the US is helping Lebanon in dealing with the aftermath of the drastic explosion.

He also added that the U.S is ready to "support a Lebanese government that reflects and responds to the will of the people."

Hale arrived in Lebanon Thursday and is due to meet with Lebanese officials for the next two days.