International Desk:
Lebanon's parliament has approved a state of emergency that grants sweeping powers to the army.

It has granted the military sweeping powers amid rising anger and political uncertainty in the capital.

The blast that killed more than 170 people and injured at least 6,000 others changed the face of the city and forced the government to resign.

Before resigning, the government declared a state of emergency in Beirut that granted the military sweeping powers including the power to declare curfews, prevent public gatherings and censor media, as well as refer civilians to military tribunals for alleged security breaches.

The move has been criticized by rights groups and other critics who say the civilian government was already operating with increased powers because of the coronavirus outbreak.