Lebanon, once celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and the iconic Cedar Nature Reserve, now grapples with unprecedented turmoil. Known as the \"Switzerland of the Middle East,\" Lebanon's strategic Mediterranean location once fostered prosperity and tourism. However, the ongoing Hezbollah-Israel conflict has plunged the nation into a severe humanitarian and economic crisis.
The conflict, persisting for over a year, intensified on September 17 following a pager explosion in Lebanon. This escalation led to Israeli fighter jets conducting an airstrike on Hezbollah headquarters in Beirut on September 27, resulting in the death of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. By October 1, Israeli ground forces entered Lebanon for the first time in 18 years, targeting Hezbollah military positions. As of early October, the Lebanon Ministry of Public Health reported that the conflict has resulted in 2,483 Lebanese fatalities and injured 11,628 others.
An Economy in Crisis
Lebanon's economy remains crippled since the financial meltdown in 2019. The tourism sector, a vital economic pillar, saw an 80% drop in weekday hotel occupancy and a 30-50% decline on weekends even before the recent military operations. The escalation has virtually halted all economic activities, with businesses shutting down to minimize risks. The electricity supply crisis has worsened, with the state-run company providing only one to two hours of power daily. Consequently, residents rely on costly and polluting generators, and fuel shortages have plunged urban areas into darkness.
The Humanitarian Crisis Worsens
Displacement has surged, with 191,501 individuals seeking refuge in government shelters, many of which are overwhelmed. The scarcity of essential goods and skyrocketing prices have made basic necessities unaffordable for many. Stories like that of 37-year-old Elie Farhat highlight the dire situation. Farhat, who moved to Dubai 15 years ago, reflects the plight of many Lebanese who are now homeless, having lost their homes and livelihoods amidst the conflict.
Severe Talent Drain Creates Challenges for Reconstruction
Lebanon's diaspora, over 15 million strong, exceeds its local population of 6 million. The ongoing conflict has accelerated emigration, exacerbating the talent drain. Professionals and skilled workers, including doctors, engineers, and entrepreneurs, are leaving in large numbers, undermining Lebanon's prospects for reconstruction and recovery.
The Lasting Wounds on the Lebanese People
Lebanon's infrastructure, already damaged from the civil war, offers little protection against the renewed attacks. The lack of bomb shelters means that many citizens live in constant fear, unable to maintain a semblance of normalcy for their children. The recent missile attack by Iran on Israel has only heightened fears of Lebanon being dragged into a broader regional conflict. Despite the overwhelming challenges, the resilience and hope of the Lebanese people remain unshaken as they await an end to the war and a chance to rebuild their lives.
Reference(s):
Middle East Insights: Life in Lebanon amid Hezbollah-Israel conflict
cgtn.com
