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Remembering the 1983 Beirut Barracks Bombings

On this day in 1983, suicide bombings in Beirut claimed the lives of 241 U.S. service members and 58 French paratroopers.

The US marines headquarters near the Beirut International Airport, is seen after it was destroyed by a suicide bomber driving a truck on 23 October 1983. AFP PHOTO/DOD/HO (Photo by DOD / AFP) (Photo by -/DOD/AFP via Getty Images)
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Overview

  • The attacks targeted the U.S. Marine Corps barracks and French paratrooper barracks in Beirut, Lebanon.
  • These coordinated bombings were among the deadliest attacks on U.S. military personnel since World War II.
  • The bombings highlighted the volatile situation in Lebanon during the early 1980s.
  • The tragic event led to significant changes in U.S. military policies and presence in the Middle East.
  • The anniversary of the bombings serves as a solemn reminder of the ongoing challenges in ensuring security for military personnel abroad.