In the southern Lebanese city of Tyre, residents are diligently working to rebuild in the wake of the recent Israel-Hezbollah conflict, which devastated parts of the coastal metropolis. The sound of heavy machinery is now common as residents search through rubble for belongings and attempt to restore normalcy to their lives.
Bassam Khalil, a heavy equipment operator, has seen a surge in demand for his bulldozers and excavators as the city grapples with widespread destruction. Many residents, like those whose homes were reduced to rubble by Israeli airstrikes last month, are anxious to sift through the debris. However, Khalil notes with somber realism that often, "they realise there is nothing left to find."
Tyre, one of the largest cities in southern Lebanon, experienced intense Israeli airstrikes following Hezbollah's engagement in the broader Middle East conflict, initiated by rocket fire into Israel in support of Iran. The attacks left behind significant damage, with the municipality reporting approximately 60 fatalities, the destruction of 26 buildings, and damage to around 1,000 homes. Tens of thousands of residents were compelled to evacuate after Israeli military warnings preceding air raids targeting Hezbollah positions.
Following a recent US-Iran agreement that contributed to a regional de-escalation and a subsequent cessation of hostilities in Lebanon over the weekend, more than two-thirds of Tyre's displaced population has reportedly returned. This return has spurred a renewed sense of purpose among residents.
Hussein Hassan, a 40-year-old barber, exemplifies this resilience. Despite returning to find his barbershop with a cracked wall and a shattered glass facade, he proudly stated, "Tyre residents love life and work. We shake off the dust and rise up again like the phoenix." He expressed a determination to persevere, adding, "Even if there are a dozen wars, we'll come out from under the rubble... and get back to work." Despite such resolve, a deep-seated distrust of Israel, stemming from past conflicts, lingers. "From experience, we don't trust this enemy," Hassan admitted, while emphasizing the imperative to act: "We can't just sit around and wait to die."
Amidst ongoing repairs to damaged homes and businesses, and with Israeli troops still stationed in Lebanon, the community is striving to move forward. Ali Samhat, 26, overseeing repairs at his mini-market, articulated the prevailing sentiment: "We all know that Israel loves destruction... but life goes on. A strike or rocket won't deter us."
The destruction has been deeply personal for some, such as Abbas Ashour, who lost his life's savings invested in his apartment and its contents. Searching through the remnants of his home, Ashour, who resides and works in Britain, expressed his hope for Lebanese government intervention against what he termed "the criminal state" of Israel.
Despite the extensive damage, Tyre is preparing to launch its summer tourist season, aiming to attract visitors to its renowned beach. Plans for new seaside establishments are underway, signaling a commitment to reviving the city's economic and social life. For young residents like Majed Jaffal, 19, the return signifies a chance to resume cherished pastimes. "We missed the sea. There's no seaside in Lebanon like the one in Tyre," he remarked, underscoring the beach's importance as the city's "beating heart." Jaffal, who has been displaced three times, noted the improved security situation but expressed a cautious hope for sustained peace.
