A shooting incident near the US embassy in Beirut has led to the arrest of a Syrian man, according to Lebanese authorities. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, prompted a swift response from the Lebanese army, ensuring the safety of embassy personnel.
The Lebanese army confirmed that a person of Syrian nationality opened fire near the US embassy located in the northern suburb of Awkar. Army personnel immediately responded to the gunfire, injuring the shooter and subsequently apprehending him. The individual was then transported to a hospital for treatment.
The US embassy acknowledged the incident, stating that small arms fire was reported near the entrance of the high-security mission. They expressed gratitude for the quick reaction of the Lebanese army, security forces, and their own embassy security team, ensuring the safety of their facility and personnel.
Investigations into the shooting are ongoing, with the embassy maintaining close contact with Lebanese law enforcement. This incident follows a similar shooting near the embassy in September last year, although no casualties were reported on that occasion.
Lebanese police have alleged that the shooter, a delivery driver, carried out the attack in retaliation for what he perceived as humiliation by security personnel. The shooting coincided with the anniversary of a 1984 car bombing outside the US embassy annexe in Beirut, attributed to the Iran-backed Hezbollah.
The US embassy in Beirut has a history of security challenges, dating back to the civil war era when diplomatic and military missions were targeted by various groups. Following a suicide attack in April 1983 that claimed numerous lives, including 63 people, the embassy relocated to its current location in Awkar.
Sources By Agencies
