After several weeks of intermittent violence, the recent ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah has offered glimmers of hope amid the grim reality of devastation across Lebanon. The conflict, which began with Hezbollah's rocket attacks following the deadly assault on Israel on October 7, 2023, has resulted in catastrophic human and infrastructural losses on both sides. Reports indicate over 3,800 people have died in Lebanon and around 100 in Israel, with nearly one million Lebanese displaced during the tumultuous combat.
First to return home, tens of thousands of Lebanese families have started making their way back to their communities under the terms of the US- and France-brokered truce, which will last for 60 days. The agreement allows for Israel’s gradual withdrawal from southern Lebanon, alongside measures for Hezbollah to relocate its fighters. On the ground, Lebanese security forces have begun to dismantle checkpoints and initiate recovery efforts to assist the return of displaced individuals.
Yet, upon returning to their homes, many residents are met with scenes of wreckage and destruction. A poignant example is the Jawhari family from Baalbek. Their once vibrant household, filled with memories, was reduced to rubble after an Israeli airstrike on November 1. "We returned only to find our house was gone," said Rouba Jawhari, whose nostalgic memories of family gatherings now lie scattered among the debris. The family sifts through remnants of their former lives, clutching onto fragments such as old photographs and personal belongings, touching reminders of what once was.
Across the nation, the plight of families reflects a broader narrative of loss and despair. Zahra Massoud, another local resident, described the harrowing experience of digging through the remains of her home, where her children once played. "Every corner of my house held laughter. It's bizarre to face this emptiness now. I just want my children to experience what I did growing up here," she lamented.
While families are desperate to reclaim their lives, the Lebanese government faces insurmountable financial constraints, hampering recovery efforts. According to local officials, the estimated financial need for reconstruction runs well above the capabilities of the war-torn nation, which has suffered from economic instability and corruption. Governor Bachir Khodr of Baalbek-Hermel reported nearly 940 fatalities and over 1,500 injuries within his district alone, emphasizing the scale of humanitarian needs.
The aftermath of this conflict presents not only emotional scars but also the potential for physical danger. Warning signs are being placed near destroyed residences, indicating the risks from unexploded ordnance (UXO) littering the region. "We gave orders to distribute over two million leaflets to returning residents, urging them not to touch any bombs," stated one official, reflecting on the dangers left behind. The rise of UXOs is reminiscent of past conflicts, where lack of awareness has led to notable casualties among returning civilians.
Despite the ceasefire being established to restore normalcy, accusations have persisted between both sides claiming violations of the truce. Just days after the agreement took effect, Israeli airstrikes targeted Hezbollah positions, prompting Lebanese officials to argue these actions threaten the fragile calm achieved through diplomacy. Witnesses have reported firing across the border and clashes, indicating the longevity of hostilities is far from guaranteed.
Meanwhile, as the humanitarian crisis broadens, organizations like the Lebanese Red Cross have ramped up efforts to provide aid. Displaced families returning home find themselves grappling with the immediate need for shelter, food, and medical supplies. Outside groups have mobilized to support these recovery efforts, hoping to stabilize the lives of those devastated by the rapid escalation of violence.
Through moments of despair, anger, and longing for the past, the resilience of the Lebanese people emerges. Many express hope not only to rebuild their homes but also to reaffirm community ties and cultural heritage. Activities such as traditional music and storytelling, once central to their lives, remain cherished elements of their identity. Local artists and cultural groups are planning events aimed at fostering healing and reflection, using art as a tool for community engagement.
Looking forward, the peaceful surroundings demanded by the Lebanese population hinge on the maintenance of the ceasefire agreement. Amidst the handshakes of diplomats and gestures of reassurance, the ability for communities to rebuild rests on both sides demonstrating restraint and fostering dialogue. While recovery is underway, the story of Lebanon remains one of perseverance against adversity, as families reclaim not just their homes but also their fractured lives.
