Israeli Strikes Hinder Reconstruction Efforts in Southern Lebanon

Residents of southern Lebanon are facing significant challenges in rebuilding their war-torn communities due to continued Israeli airstrikes, which have escalated since a ceasefire was established in November 2024. Engineer Tarek Mazraani, who advocates for reconstruction efforts, reports that Israeli drones frequently surveil the area, often targeting equipment necessary for rebuilding and accusing residents of ties to Hezbollah.

Despite the ceasefire meant to halt over a year of conflict, Israel has persisted in its military operations, claiming to strike sites associated with Hezbollah. Recent attacks have destroyed essential construction machinery, further complicating the return of tens of thousands of displaced individuals to their homes. Mazraani described the situation starkly: “For us, the war has not ended,” he stated. “We can’t return to our villages, rebuild or even check on our homes.”

The economic impact of the ongoing conflict is severe. The World Bank estimates that reconstruction costs could reach $11 billion. Yet, the Lebanese government has yet to initiate substantial rebuilding efforts, struggling with financial constraints and hoping for support from international allies, particularly Gulf nations.

Targeted Strikes on Civilian Infrastructure

The situation on the ground has deteriorated as Israeli forces have conducted near-daily strikes targeting not only alleged militants but also civilian infrastructure. In recent months, strikes have damaged or destroyed more than 10,000 structures, according to Amnesty International. Many residents, including Ahmed Tabaja, whose machinery business was devastated, have expressed frustration. Tabaja reported losses of around $5 million after Israeli attacks destroyed his equipment, asserting, “Everyone knows there is nothing military here.”

In another incident, local businessman Hussein Kiniar described the moment his family’s machinery yard was struck multiple times, leading to losses totaling approximately $12 million. “I watched everything burn right before my eyes,” he lamented, emphasizing the civilian nature of their operations. The Israeli military, however, maintains that these sites are linked to Hezbollah and are therefore legitimate targets.

Political Tensions and Reconstruction Delays

As reconstruction efforts stall, political tensions are rising. The Lebanese government faces pressure, particularly from the United States, to disarm Hezbollah. However, the group has resisted any such measures, insisting that reconstruction must commence before discussions regarding their weapons can take place.

The complex interplay of local and international politics complicates the situation further. While Hezbollah has historically led post-war rebuilding efforts, their financial dealings have come under scrutiny, with the group maintaining that the Lebanese state should be responsible for funding reconstruction.

The ongoing conflicts have left many families, like that of olive grower Mohammed Rizk, unable to return to their properties. Rizk, who has not been able to cultivate his land for three years, expressed despair over his situation: “The war hasn’t ended. It will only be over when we return home.”

As reconstruction remains elusive, the plight of residents in southern Lebanon underscores the broader implications of ongoing military actions and political disagreements, leaving many without hope of returning to their homes anytime soon.