Lebanon: Heavy gunfire, casualties reported in Beirut's Tayouneh neighborhood Oct. 14

Event

Heavy gunfire has been reported at a Hezbollah and Amal political party protest in Beirut's Tayouneh neighborhood Oct. 14. Initial reports indicate at least four people have been killed and several others wounded. The Lebanese military has reportedly deployed to the area; unconfirmed reports suggest that one gunman has been detained. The protest was taking place to demand the removal of the judge in charge of investigating the August 2020 Beirut port explosion.

Authorities will likely maintain heightened security measures, including increased deployment, road closures, and personnel and vehicle checks in the coming hours. Officials may impose temporary and localized movement restrictions in case of additional security operations. Additional cases of gunfire cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Avoid the protest site. Exercise caution if operating in Beirut. To the extent possible, avoid government buildings, security installations, and any concentrations of armed fighters due to the potential for violence.