1983 Beirut barracks bombing facts for kids

The Beirut Barracks Bombing was a terrible terrorist attack that happened on October 23, 1983, during the Lebanese Civil War. Two large truck bombs exploded at buildings where French and American soldiers were staying. These soldiers were in Lebanon as part of an international peacekeeping force. The attacks killed 299 people, including many soldiers. A group called the Islamic Jihad Organization said they were responsible for this attack.

What Was the Beirut Barracks Bombing?

The Beirut Barracks Bombing was a very serious event where two powerful bombs exploded almost at the same time. These bombs were hidden inside trucks. One truck targeted a building where U.S. Marines were living. The other truck attacked a building housing French paratroopers.

When and Where Did It Happen?

The attacks took place on October 23, 1983, in the city of Beirut, which is the capital of Lebanon. At that time, Lebanon was going through a difficult period called the Lebanese Civil War. Many different groups were fighting each other.

Who Were the Victims?

The bombs killed a total of 299 people. Most of the victims were soldiers from the United States and France.

• 241 U.S. Marines, sailors, and soldiers died in the attack on the U.S. barracks.
• 58 French paratroopers died in the attack on their building.
• Six Lebanese civilians also lost their lives.

Why Were U.S. and French Troops in Lebanon?

U.S. and French troops were part of a group called the Multinational Force in Lebanon. This force was sent to Lebanon in 1982. Their job was to act as peacekeepers. They were there to help bring peace and stability during the civil war. They also helped protect civilians.

The Attacks Unfold

On that Sunday morning, the first truck bomb drove into the U.S. Marine barracks. This building was a four-story concrete structure. It was used as a living area for the Marines. The truck was a large Mercedes truck. It was carrying a huge amount of explosives.

The U.S. Barracks Attack

The truck broke through a fence and drove directly into the building. The explosion was incredibly powerful. It caused the entire building to collapse. Many Marines were asleep inside when the bomb went off. The force of the blast was so strong that it was felt miles away. Rescue efforts began immediately. Soldiers and local people worked together to dig through the rubble. They searched for survivors.

The French Barracks Attack

Just minutes after the U.S. attack, another truck bomb exploded. This one targeted a building used by French paratroopers. It was about 6 kilometers (about 3.7 miles) away from the U.S. barracks. This explosion also caused severe damage. It killed many French soldiers.

Who Was Responsible?

A group called the Islamic Jihad Organization claimed responsibility for the bombings. This group was believed to be connected to Hezbollah. Hezbollah is a political party and militant group in Lebanon. It is supported by Iran. The attacks were seen as a message to the international forces to leave Lebanon.

Aftermath and Impact

The Beirut Barracks Bombing was one of the deadliest attacks on U.S. Marines since World War II. It had a big impact on the United States and France.

Withdrawal of Troops

After the attacks, there was a lot of debate about keeping troops in Lebanon. In February 1984, the United States decided to withdraw its Marines from Lebanon. France also withdrew its troops shortly after.

Remembering the Victims

The victims of the Beirut Barracks Bombing are remembered every year. There are memorials dedicated to them. One famous memorial is at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in North Carolina, USA. It honors the U.S. service members who died. These memorials help people remember the sacrifices made by the peacekeepers.

Images for kids

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  The USMC barracks in Beirut

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  The building in 1982

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  Marine Gen. P.X. Kelley (left) and Col. Tim Geraghty (right) take Vice President George H. W. Bush on a tour around the site of the Beirut barracks bombing two days after the explosion.

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  Marine Barracks in Beirut after bombing, October 23, 1983

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  Beirut Memorial, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune

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  Sign from the "Peacekeeping Chapel" at the Marine Barracks, on display at the Armed Forces Chaplaincy Center, Fort Jackson.

See also

In Spanish: Atentado contra los cuarteles en Beirut en 1983 para niños