The Lebanese military apprehended a gunman following a shootout near the US Embassy in Beirut on Wednesday morning. The incident occurred amidst ongoing tensions in Lebanon, exacerbated by conflicts between Hezbollah militants and Israeli troops along the border. Months of political deadlock and economic challenges have added to the unrest in the Mediterranean nation.
According to the Lebanese military, the assailant, identified as a Syrian national, was shot and wounded by soldiers before being taken to a hospital. The motives behind the attack remain unclear, although photographs circulating in Lebanese media depict the attacker wearing a black vest bearing the words “Islamic State” in Arabic and English initials “I” and “S”.
Reports indicate that a prolonged gunfight involving at least one attacker lasted nearly thirty minutes. A video shared on social media depicted the gunman firing what appeared to be an assault rifle from a parking lot across the embassy’s entrance.
Despite the exchange of gunfire, there were no casualties among US Embassy staff. Lebanese troops and embassy security swiftly responded to the incident, ensuring the safety of personnel.
Responding to the situation, Lebanese caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati’s office stated that the situation has stabilized, with thorough investigations underway. The Lebanese military has deployed additional troops around the embassy and its vicinity to enhance security measures.
This incident evokes memories of past attacks on the US Embassy in Beirut. In 1983, a devastating bombing claimed the lives of 63 individuals, with US officials attributing the attack to the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah. Subsequently, the embassy was relocated to the Christian suburb of Aukar to enhance security. However, the new location was also targeted in a bomb attack in September 1984.
This recent incident adds to a series of security concerns surrounding the US Embassy. In September 2023, Lebanese security forces detained an individual who opened fire near the embassy, resulting in no casualties.
In addition, clashes between protesters and security forces occurred near the embassy in October 2023, with demonstrators expressing solidarity with Gaza and the militant group Hamas amidst its conflict with Israel.
Comments