As the war between Israel and Hezbollah escalated last September, Abed Al Kadiri, an artist in Kuwait, felt compelled to return home to Lebanon. Watching the devastation unfold in Beirut, he experienced distress over the safety of his family, prompting his decision to support them directly.
Lebanon's large diaspora, roughly three times the size of the country's 5.7 million population, has begun returning to provide assistance amid one of the most violent conflicts in recent decades. Despite the challenges of a deteriorating economy and ongoing political instability, many returnees felt a calling to help their homeland.
Zeina Kays, a communications consultant who returned in October, echoed this sentiment, stating that the war showcased the solidarity among the Lebanese people. She has actively coordinated efforts to aid displaced families with essential supplies since her return.
The renewed conflict was sparked by a Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, leading to a series of retaliatory strikes along the Israeli-Lebanese border. According to various reports, the outbreak of violence has left thousands dead or injured and displaced approximately 1.3 million people, further exacerbating the existing crises in Lebanon.
Lebanon has been grappling with significant challenges since 2019, including a severe economic crisis labeled by the World Bank as one of the worst in a century. Political turmoil and an explosion at the Beirut port in 2020 have only deepened the nation's struggles. As the conflict continues, individuals like Mr. Al Kadiri, who have left Lebanon multiple times due to instability, face uncertainty regarding their future. He returned to Beirut with a mix of fear and hope, committed to helping rebuild his country.
Historically, Lebanese migration has occurred in waves due to various crises, resulting in a vast diaspora that maintains connections with their homeland. In 2023, remittances from the diaspora accounted for about 27.5 percent of Lebanon's GDP, highlighting their ongoing involvement in the country’s economy.
As the situation in Lebanon unfolds, many diaspora members are keeping a close watch on government efforts to rebuild and stabilize the nation. The geopolitical landscape continues to influence their decisions regarding returning home. Opinions vary significantly among Lebanese about the future, especially concerning Hezbollah's role and its relationship with Iran, as well as the ongoing impact of regional tensions.
The desire for peace remains strong among many, as the ongoing struggles prompt reflections on the nature of resilience and the toll of continuous conflict on the Lebanese people. Numerous returnees and their families express a collective yearning for stability and a brighter future for Lebanon.