Israeli Bomb Hits Residential Building in Beirut
An Israeli bomb is heading towards a residential building in Beirut, captured by an AP photographer as it approaches its target. The bomb, weighing approximately 900 kilograms, causes flames and smoke to billow out as it strikes the building, causing it to collapse and reduce to rubble.
AP Photographer Captures the Moment
- The AP photographer, Hassan Ammar, was on the scene after the Israeli army ordered the evacuation of the building in Beirut.
- Ammar, equipped with protective gear, quickly positioned himself at a safe distance with a telephoto lens to capture the impending destruction.
- The targeted building was believed to have ties to the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah.
Personal Connection to the Building
Ammar recalls considering renting an apartment in the building that was hit, drawn by the stunning view of the nearby public park. Growing up in the area, he had a familiar connection to the building before it was destroyed.
Analysis of the Bomb
Richard Weir, a senior researcher at Human Rights Watch, examined close-up images of the bomb to determine its type. He identified it as a 900-kilogram MK-84 bomb with a tail kit from Boeing, capable of precision targeting. Dropping such large bombs in populated areas poses significant risks to civilians and infrastructure.
Efforts to Minimize Civilian Casualties
- The Israeli military claims to issue warnings before many of its airstrikes in Lebanon to reduce civilian casualties.
- Despite these precautions, over 3200 people have been killed in Lebanon during 13 months of clashes between Israel and Hezbollah, with a significant portion being women and children.
New Negotiations for Ceasefire
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced an expansion of military operations in southern Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah strongholds in Beirut and other areas. Meanwhile, negotiations for a ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel are ongoing, with US special envoy Amos Hochstein involved in the talks.