Israeli warnings to evacuate areas targeted by airstrikes in Beirut’s southern suburbs have surprisingly turned into a rallying point, with people flocking to the danger zone to take photos.

Instead of fleeing, people gather near these locations to take photos and videos, often placing themselves dangerously close to the targeted area.

The phenomenon gained attention on Saturday when Celine Haidar, a player on the Lebanese national football team, was injured by shrapnel during an Israeli airstrike in the Chiyah region.

The crowds in such dangerous locations raise questions: What drives people to approach danger rather than escape from it?

The illusion of safety: Many people believe that no harm will happen to them, a cognitive bias known as “optimism bias.” This mentality causes people to underestimate the risks and approach dangerous areas without fully understanding the potential consequences.

Curiosity and thrill seeking: Human nature thrives on curiosity, especially when extraordinary events such as air raids occur. The novelty of such experiences activates the brain’s reward system, releasing dopamine and creating a feeling of excitement and satisfaction.

Social validation through media: In the age of social media, there is a growing desire to share unique content. Posting images or videos from the location of an airstrike provides a sense of satisfaction and social recognition. This phenomenon, called “impression management,” can sometimes outweigh concerns about personal safety.

Collective behavior: When others gather in dangerous places, individuals may experience a false sense of security and think, “If others are doing it, it must be safe.” This collective behavior often overrides individual prudence.

Desensitization and rebellion against fear: Living in conflict zones for long periods of time can lead to a feeling of emotional numbness. For some, approaching a bombing site or capturing images can symbolize resistance or reclaiming agency in the face of helplessness.

The Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): FOMO is a modern psychological phenomenon that drives individuals to participate in important events, even if they are dangerous. Missing out on witnessing or documenting a historic or catastrophic moment can feel like a personal loss, allowing people to be physically present despite the risks.

While these theories can explain why people gather near target areas, they cannot justify such risky behavior.

The danger posed by Israeli air strikes remains real and ever-present, despite claims of precision.