Gunfire was heard for nearly half an hour in the vicinity of the U.S. Embassy in Awkar. The road leading to the embassy from Douma and Awkar was closed following reports of an armed attack on the embassy. A video documented the moment of the armed attack on the U.S. embassy in the Awkar area today.
Ambulances were deployed to the vicinity of the U.S. embassy in Awkar after reports of casualties due to gunfire nearby. Initial information indicated that three people were injured inside the embassy while the Lebanese army managed to eliminate one of the attackers, with another fleeing the scene. Other reports indicated that three individuals attacked the U.S. embassy in Beirut this morning, and two fled in an unknown direction. Security forces are currently pursuing them. All embassy staff have been instructed to remain in their offices and not to exit. It was reported that the attacker’s rifle bore the "ISIS" insignia.
A statement from the army announced that the U.S. embassy in Lebanon, located in the Awkar area, was fired upon by an individual of Syrian nationality. Troops deployed in the area responded to the sources of the gunfire, resulting in the injury of the shooter. The army confirmed that the shooter was apprehended and transported to a hospital for treatment, with follow-up actions ongoing to ascertain the circumstances of the incident.
Furthermore, a statement was issued by the U.S. embassy in Lebanon stating: "At 8:34 AM local time, gunfire from light weapons was reported near the entrance of the U.S. embassy." The statement added, "Thanks to the rapid response of the Lebanese army and internal security forces along with our embassy security team, our facilities and staff are safe. Investigations are ongoing, and we are in close contact with local law enforcement authorities."
