Despite the devastation caused by conflict in Lebanon, particularly in the Bekaa Valley and southern regions, a sense of hope is emerging among communities, according to the international Catholic charity Aid to the Church in Need (ACN).
“With the appointment of a new president, hope returned to Lebanon,” said Marielle Boutros, project coordinator for ACN in Lebanon.
“The war was hell for us. Every Christian here has thought about leaving the country. Many people are still struggling with great difficulties, and the situation is anything but simple. Often, there is no longer enough money at the end of the month for food. But at least there is hope that things are improving,” she added.
The aftermath of the conflict in Lebanon has left communities struggling to rebuild their lives.
Widespread job losses have compounded the hardships, while agricultural fields in the south, including those owned by Christian farmers, have been severely damaged by phosphorus bombs.
The destruction has deepened the economic crisis for many families, highlighting the critical role of emergency relief efforts.
ACN said it has stepped in to address these challenges, focusing on supporting Catholic schools where many families can no longer afford tuition fees, and teachers face months without pay.
The Bekaa Valley has witnessed massive destruction, leaving countless homes uninhabitable. Internally displaced people remain unable to return, while fears of sporadic airstrikes persist.
Contacts from the Maronite Catholic Diocese of Sidon described the situation: “The border villages in the south are still in a state of unrest. Peace has not yet been restored there, and there are still sporadic airstrikes.”
Attention is now focused on January 26, the deadline set by President Joseph Aoun for Israel to withdraw its forces from southern Lebanon.
Boutros highlighted the importance of this date: “A lot hangs on this date. Until then, no one will begin to rebuild or repair their home. Nobody is going to build something that could be destroyed again. Let’s keep hoping and praying that peace returns to our country.”
