In the southern Lebanese city of Tyre, conversations are becoming increasingly hurried as residents grapple with the harsh realities of ongoing conflict. With Israeli bombing and outgoing rocket fire from Hezbollah becoming the norm, lingering on the streets is no longer considered safe. The sound of drones buzzing overhead serves as a constant reminder of the precarious situation, forcing residents to navigate their daily lives with caution.
Many civilians have been left without homes as more than one million people have fled their residences, according to Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati. The war has drained the vibrancy from this historic city, famous for its Roman ruins and golden beaches. The streets are eerily empty, shops are shuttered, and the once-bustling seashore now lies deserted. The local civil defense headquarters has been abandoned after rescue teams evacuated, following a warning from Israel.
As the conflict escalates, the impact of Israeli airstrikes becomes increasingly apparent. Residents report that strikes have grown louder and closer to their homes, with some of the most destructive bombs weighing 1,000 pounds. Amidst the turmoil, Hezbollah’s presence complicates the situation further; while the armed group battles Israeli troops, it also regulates the media in Tyre, restricting journalists’ movements.
In local hospitals, doctors are showing signs of fatigue as they care for a rising number of injured patients. Dr. Salman Aidibi, CEO of Hiram Hospital, described the overwhelming situation, noting that they receive between 30 and 35 injured women and children each day. Many medical staff no longer return home due to the dangers of traveling.
One of the young patients, nine-year-old Mariam, lies in a hospital bed with her left leg in a cast and her arm heavily bandaged. “She came in as part of a family of nine,” Dr. Aidibi explained. “Five of them were also treated. We operated on Mariam, and she is doing much better.”
Hassan Manna, who owns a small coffee shop in Tyre, remains resolute despite the chaos surrounding him. “I’m not leaving my country. I’m staying in my place, with my children,” he said, asserting his determination to stay put even as conflict engulfs the area. However, the recent death of five neighbors, killed in their home by an Israeli airstrike, weighs heavily on him.
As the situation continues to deteriorate, Hassan reflects on the loss with a heavy heart. “It’s unjust,” he lamented, fighting back tears. “We know the people. They were born here. I swear I wish I had died with them.”
With both sides claiming to target military infrastructure, the humanitarian toll on civilians like Hassan and Mariam raises questions about the conflict’s implications and the urgent need for peace.
