The Ongoing Conflict in Lebanon: A Personal Account
In a poignant letter from Beirut, Kim Ghattas, writing for the Financial Times, reflects on the devastating impact of the current war between Israel and Lebanon. The conflict has raised profound questions about the endurance of war and its toll on civilian lives. Ghattas, who has experienced multiple military campaigns throughout her life, recounts her fears and observations as Israeli missiles struck the southern suburbs of Beirut, a Hezbollah stronghold.
This latest conflict marks Ghattas's fifth encounter with Israeli military actions in Lebanon, dating back to 1978. She vividly recalls the destruction of her city during the 1982 invasion and the subsequent civil war that ravaged Lebanon for 15 years. The trauma of conflict, compounded by economic crises and disasters like the Beirut port explosion in 2020, has left lasting scars on the population.
The Human Cost of War
Ghattas shares harrowing stories of individuals affected by the conflict, including a vegetable seller who lost his family and a waiter whose ancestral home was invaded by Israeli soldiers. These personal narratives highlight the broader humanitarian crisis unfolding in Lebanon, where the echoes of war resonate in the lives of ordinary citizens. The emotional toll is palpable, as many grapple with loss and uncertainty amidst ongoing violence.
Despite not being in Gaza, Ghattas emphasizes that the war feels omnipresent, affecting everyone in the region. She describes her own harrowing experiences, including a near-miss from an airstrike while returning to Beirut. The constant threat of violence has forced many, including Ghattas herself, to question their safety and the future of their homeland.
Reflections on War and Resilience
In her closing thoughts, Ghattas reflects on the questions that war inevitably raises: Have we become numb to death and destruction? Are we in denial about the cyclical nature of conflict? As the bombings continue and the situation remains dire, the uncertainty looms large. Ghattas's narrative serves as a reminder of the resilience of those living in war-torn regions, as well as the urgent need for a resolution to the ongoing violence.
As the conflict escalates, the international community watches closely, hoping for an end to the suffering and a path toward peace.
