Survivors and Victims’ Families Reflect on Long Shadow of Beirut Bombings

The recent killing of a senior Hezbollah member in Beirut, Lebanon, has reignited painful memories for survivors and victims’ families of two deadly bombings that took place over 40 years ago. The attacks, which occurred in 1983, claimed the lives of over 350 people, mostly U.S. service members.

The senior Hezbollah commander, Ibrahim Aqeel, was targeted and killed by Israeli fighter jets in a residential area of Beirut’s southern suburbs. Aqeel had been wanted by the United States for his role in the bombings of the U.S. Embassy and the U.S. Marine Corps barracks in Beirut.

For many survivors like Michael Harris, who was injured in one of the attacks, the news of Aqeel’s death does not bring closure. Harris expressed that the responsibility for the attacks extends beyond one individual.

Elisa Camara, whose brother was killed in the Marine Corps barracks bombing, shared her emotional reaction to Aqeel’s death, describing her brother as a kindhearted man who loved his family dearly. While she sees Aqeel’s death as a form of justice, she believes more must be done to prevent future acts of terrorism.

Valerie Giblin, who lost her husband in the barracks attack, also expressed a sense of unresolved grief. She emphasized the need for accountability for those responsible for the attacks.

Lisa Weide, who lost her brother in the same bombing, expressed a mix of emotions upon hearing of Aqeel’s death. While she is glad he is no longer a threat, she found her own closure through a vivid dream she had shortly after her brother’s passing.

The impact of these bombings continues to linger for survivors and victims’ families, highlighting the lasting effects of terrorism on individuals and communities.