Lebanon, once dubbed the 'Switzerland of the Middle East' for its lush cedar forests and vibrant culture, now faces a stark reality. With the Hezbollah-Israel conflict escalating, daily life for ordinary residents has become a fight for survival.
From Tourism Boom to Economic Collapse
Before the conflict, Lebanon's economy was already reeling from a 2019 financial crisis. Now, with tourism dead and businesses shuttered, even generators—a lifeline during daily power outages—are struggling amid fuel shortages. 'People can’t work from home; they can’t even stay home,' says Elie Farhat, a 37-year-old who’s survived multiple wars here. 🏙️⚡
Humanitarian Emergency Unfolds
Over 191,000 displaced people cram into shelters as prices for basics like water soar. Streets in Beirut are lined with families who once lived comfortably. 'They’re not poor—they’re people who lost everything in minutes,' Farhat explains. 🚨👨👩👧👦
Brain Drain Threatens Future
With 15 million Lebanese abroad—more than double the local population—the exodus of doctors, engineers, and artists leaves little hope for post-war recovery. Many, like Farhat, left years ago. 'If everyone leaves, who rebuilds?' he asks. Older generations cling to their homeland, fearing occupation. 🧳🌐
‘Nowhere to Run’
Lebanon’s small size offers no refuge from airstrikes. Parents comfort kids by saying, 'The bombs won’t hit us,' but anxiety lingers. As regional tensions spike, Farhat says locals are 'exhausted but waiting—for peace to write a new chapter.' ✨🕊️
