LONDON — Gunfire was heard Wednesday morning near the entrance to the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, officials said, adding that “our team are safe.”
“Investigations are underway and we are in close contact with host country law enforcement,” embassy officials said on social media.
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The recent incident of shots fired in close proximity to the US Embassy in Beirut has raised concerns about the safety and security of diplomatic missions in the region. The incident, which occurred on Monday evening, involved unidentified gunmen firing shots near the heavily fortified embassy compound in the Awkar area of Beirut.
According to reports, the shots were fired from a passing car, prompting security personnel at the embassy to respond by firing warning shots in the air. No injuries were reported in the incident, but it has sparked fears of a potential escalation of violence in the already volatile region.
The US Embassy in Beirut is one of the largest and most heavily guarded diplomatic missions in the city, with a significant presence of security personnel and stringent security measures in place to protect against potential threats. However, this incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing security challenges faced by diplomatic missions in the Middle East.
The Lebanese government has condemned the incident and vowed to investigate the matter thoroughly. Prime Minister Najib Mikati has called for increased security measures around diplomatic missions in the country to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
The US Embassy has also issued a statement expressing concern over the incident and reaffirming its commitment to the safety and security of its personnel and facilities in Beirut. The embassy has urged US citizens in Lebanon to remain vigilant and take precautions to ensure their safety.
The incident comes at a time of heightened tensions in the region, with ongoing conflicts and political instability in neighboring countries such as Syria and Iraq. The presence of armed groups and extremist organizations in the region poses a constant threat to the security of diplomatic missions and foreign nationals.
In response to the incident, the US State Department has issued a travel advisory warning US citizens to exercise caution when traveling to Lebanon and to avoid areas where large gatherings or demonstrations may occur. The advisory also advises US citizens to stay informed about local developments and follow the guidance of local authorities.
The incident of shots fired near the US Embassy in Beirut serves as a stark reminder of the security challenges faced by diplomatic missions in the region. It underscores the need for continued vigilance and cooperation between governments to ensure the safety and security of diplomatic personnel and facilities in volatile environments.
