St. Francis Church in Hamra has been hosting displaced families from southern Lebanon and Dahiyeh for the past two months. With a ceasefire starting Wednesday, there is a feeling of joy and optimism among the families as they pack up to return home. The ceasefire stipulates that Israel must withdraw from Lebanon and Hezbollah retreat north of the Litani River, with the Lebanese military filling the border space within 60 days.
A quarter of Lebanon’s population has been displaced, but the mood in Beirut is celebratory as people head home before dawn, waving flags and posters of Hezbollah leaders. Despite the challenges faced, many displaced individuals are hopeful for a peaceful future free of violence and destruction.
Father Abdallah of St. Francis Church is pleased to see families return home, emphasizing the importance of dignity in life. While some doubt the ceasefire will hold, the optimism for a peaceful future prevails. Reports of Israeli violence following the ceasefire are noted, but breaking the ceasefire would not be beneficial for either side.
Some in Lebanon believe this ceasefire could mark the beginning of a new chapter for the country, defined less by Iran and more by Israel and its allies. Longtime radio correspondent Bassem Elmoualem sees the potential for Israel’s global image to decline following their actions in the conflict. The atmosphere in Beirut is one of cautious optimism and hope for a lasting peace.
Source
Photo credit www.aljazeera.com