Desolation in Bint Jbeil: The Impact of Ongoing Conflict

Desolation in Bint Jbeil

The town of Bint Jbeil in southern Lebanon has taken on a ghostly appearance, with its streets eerily empty and shops closed, a direct consequence of the prolonged conflict between Hezbollah and Israel that has driven many residents to flee. The once vibrant market now stands silent, a stark reminder of the turmoil that has gripped this region.

This summer, however, the atmosphere shifted temporarily as Hezbollah organized a grand funeral in the town’s central square for a local man and his two sisters, whom the militant group claimed as martyrs. They were tragically killed when Israeli forces bombed their home, an event that resonated deeply with the remaining community members. Massive banners adorned the square, paying tribute to the deceased, while martial music filled the air, inviting a few hundred residents to gather and honor their memory.

Among the mourners was Asmaa Alawiyeh, a 32-year-old accountant, who expressed the profound difficulties faced by families in the area. “Life has become increasingly challenging after months of relentless clashes,” she lamented. With her two children currently out of school and her husband, a plumber, struggling to find work, the uncertainty of their future looms large. “We are left in the dark, with no clear plan or direction. We have no idea what to prepare for because we have no idea what’s coming next,” she added, reflecting the sentiments of many in her community.

Meanwhile, in the nearby village of Yarine, a U.N. peacekeeper surveyed the extensive damage inflicted by Israeli airstrikes, further underscoring the ongoing crisis in southern Lebanon.