November 15, 2015
A series of coordinated suicide bombings killed 43 people and wounded over 200 in Beirut, Lebanon. The attacks targeted the predominantly Shia suburb of Bourj el-Barajneh and were claimed by the Islamic State.
Beirut, Lebanon | Islamic State
On November 12, 2015, a series of coordinated suicide bombings occurred in Beirut, Lebanon, targeting a crowded residential area. The attacks struck the predominantly Shia suburb of Bourj el-Barajneh, resulting in the deaths of 43 people and injuring over 200 others. These bombings were claimed by the Islamic State (IS).
The suburb of Bourj el-Barajneh, in the southern part of Beirut, is known for its strong links to Hezbollah, a Shia Islamist political and militant group that has been deeply involved in the Syrian Civil War alongside the Syrian government. This area had previously been a target of attacks due to Hezbollah’s participation in the conflict against IS and other opposition groups.
The attack sequence began during rush hour, a time when streets were busy with people returning home from work. The first explosion was triggered by a suicide bomber, which was soon followed by a second blast a few minutes later. A third bomber was reportedly killed before he could detonate his explosive device, preventing further casualties.
The bombings resulted in widespread devastation, leaving at least 43 people dead and more than 200 injured, overwhelming local hospitals and medical services. This attack was the deadliest in Beirut since the end of Lebanon’s civil war in 1990.
The Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attacks, stating that they were targeting Hezbollah strongholds. IS has long opposed Hezbollah due to its support of the Assad regime in Syria, making the Shia group and its supporters a frequent target for Sunni extremist attacks in the region.
The bombings further highlighted the volatile sectarian tensions in Lebanon and underscored the risks faced by nations involved in the Syrian conflict. Domestically, there was an outpouring of grief and calls for unity across the Lebanese political spectrum to combat terrorism. Internationally, the bombings were condemned, with numerous countries expressing solidarity with Lebanon.
Security measures were heightened across Beirut, especially in neighborhoods known for being Hezbollah strongholds. The attacks emphasized the need for increased vigilance and security cooperation to counter terrorist threats within Lebanese borders. Subsequently, Lebanese security forces intensified their efforts to dismantle terrorist cells and prevent future attacks.
This tragic event stands as a reminder of the profound challenges Lebanon faces concerning regional instability and domestic security amid ongoing geopolitical conflicts.
Source: www.bbc.com