Since October 7, Israel has intensified its psychological warfare tactics against Lebanon, using thunderous noise to instill fear and reignite memories of the devastating Beirut port explosion that occurred in August 2020. The sounds, which resemble those of low-flying jets, explosions, and heavy artillery, have been deliberately employed to create a sense of dread among the Lebanese population.
Residents across various parts of Lebanon, particularly in Beirut, have reported hearing the alarming noises at irregular intervals, often during the night. The sounds, which some describe as “deafening and unsettling,” have triggered widespread anxiety, recalling the traumatic events of the Beirut port explosion that killed over 200 people, injured thousands, and left large parts of the city in ruins.
These psychological tactics are part of a broader strategy by Israel to undermine the morale of the Lebanese population and exert pressure on Hezbollah, the resistance group that holds significant influence in Lebanon. By exploiting the collective trauma of the Beirut blast, Israel aims to weaken public support for Hezbollah and create a climate of fear that hampers the group’s operations.
The psychological impact of these tactics has been profound. Mental health professionals in Lebanon report a surge in cases of anxiety, insomnia, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among the population. Many people are reliving the horrors of the 2020 explosion, with the persistent noises exacerbating their sense of insecurity and helplessness.