Air Force strike damages Al-Qasmiya Bridge in southern Lebanon
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BEIRUT — An airstrike by the Air Force damaged the Al-Qasmiya Bridge over the Litani River in southern Lebanon on Wednesday, severing vehicular traffic across the waterway while leaving a concrete section intact for pedestrians.
The strike occurred at approximately 2:15 p.m. local time in the western sector of the border region. The bridge, a key crossing point connecting communities on either side of the river, sustained significant structural damage that rendered it impassable for cars and heavy transport. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic in the immediate aftermath, with emergency crews assessing the extent of the damage.
Local authorities confirmed that the bridge remains open for foot traffic only, with a portion of the concrete deck still standing. However, the structural integrity of the remaining section has not been fully evaluated. Traffic has been diverted to alternative crossings, causing significant delays in the area.
The Air Force has not issued a statement regarding the operation or the specific objectives of the strike. No claims of responsibility have been made by any military or political group in the region. The timing of the attack coincides with heightened tensions along the border, though the specific rationale for targeting the infrastructure remains unclear.
Residents in nearby villages reported hearing the explosion and seeing smoke rising from the riverbank. Local officials have urged civilians to avoid the area pending further safety assessments. Emergency services have established a perimeter around the site, and military vehicles have been observed in the vicinity.
The Al-Qasmiya Bridge has served as a critical link for local commerce and daily commutes. Its partial destruction disrupts the flow of goods and people between the two sides of the Litani River. Regional officials are expected to hold emergency meetings to address the logistical challenges posed by the closure.
Questions remain regarding the strategic intent behind the strike. Whether the operation was intended to impede movement, target specific assets, or serve as a warning signal has not been disclosed. The status of any personnel or equipment that may have been on the bridge at the time of the attack is also unconfirmed.
As of late Wednesday, no casualties have been officially reported in connection with the strike. However, local hospitals have been placed on alert to handle potential injuries. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing assessments of the bridge’s condition and the broader security implications of the incident.