In a dramatic moment captured by AP photographer Bilal Hussein, a missile is seen plummeting from the sky, aimed at a building in Beirut, Lebanon. Taking cover behind a large tree, Hussein focused his camera on the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) warning of an impending strike on the structure. Moments later, a missile indeed descended, allowing him to capture the devastating moment when the building was obliterated.

Hussein recounted the experience, stating, “I heard the missile’s whistling as it hurtled towards the building, and then I started clicking away.” His camera froze the moment, showcasing the missile’s descent and the destructive force of modern warfare—an incredible testament to speed, power, and devastation.

According to reports from the AP, an IDF spokesperson issued warnings in Arabic on social media, advising residents in and around two buildings in southern Beirut to evacuate. Approximately 40 minutes after the warning was released, the attack occurred.

AP reporters on the ground noted that just minutes before the missile struck, the IDF fired two smaller shells at the rooftop. This tactic is commonly used by the IDF to warn of impending attacks, especially seen in their operations during past conflicts in the Gaza Strip.

As a result, the main missile racing toward the building became somewhat less noticeable. However, Hussein managed to document the entire scene with his camera.

One photograph captures the missile’s descent against a blue sky, while another shows it about to hit a low-rise balcony. As the building crumbled, a cloud of smoke and debris filled the air.