Historically, West Beirut has been a hub of cultural, intellectual, and political activity, attracting a diverse population.
Its streets were alive with artists, journalists, and political activists, making it a focal point of discourse and resistance throughout Lebanon's turbulent history.
[8] In 1982, West Beirut was the focus of international attention during the Israeli invasion of Lebanon,[9] known as Operation Peace for Galilee.
The siege ended with a negotiated withdrawal of PLO fighters and the deployment of multinational peacekeeping forces, including troops from the United States, France, and Italy.
Over the next three days, Lebanese militiamen carried out an operation in the Sabra and Shatila refugee camps, which resulted in the death of hundreds of Palestinian civilians.