Lebanon is on edge as tensions continue to escalate between Israel and Hezbollah, with fears of a retaliatory strike looming after a missile hit a football field in the Israeli-annexed Syrian Golan Heights, killing 12 children and adolescents. Several flights to and from Beirut’s international airport have been cancelled, with airlines citing safety and security risks. Despite the heightened tensions, summer air traffic continues as Lebanese expats gather to welcome their loved ones for the summer. Many residents like Mohammad Mokhalid from southern Lebanon are accustomed to the threat of war and airstrikes, expressing that they are not scared by the current situation.
Israel has accused Hezbollah of carrying out the strike in Majdal Shams, while the militant group has issued a rare denial, raising fears that the conflict between Hezbollah and Israeli forces along the border may escalate into a full-blown war. Diplomatic efforts have been launched to defuse the situation, with some European airlines suspending flights to Lebanon in response to the increased tensions. Despite concerns, MEA chief Mohamad El-Hout reassured the public following a meeting with caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati, stating that there were no threats or information about potential attacks on Rafik Hariri Airport. The escalation of tension between Israel and Hezbollah has not significantly impacted Lebanon’s summer tourist season, with thousands of expats returning to visit their families.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has led to near-daily strikes since the war in Gaza erupted in October. Despite the tensions, the number of passengers arriving at Beirut airport in June has only seen a slight decrease compared to the previous year, with many Lebanese expats traveling back to spend the summer in Lebanon. The situation remains volatile, with fears of a retaliatory strike from Israel looming over the region. European airlines have taken precautions by suspending flights to Lebanon, while diplomatic efforts are underway to prevent further escalation. Despite the uncertainty, Lebanese residents are going about their daily lives, with the threat of war being a recurring reality for many.
The recent missile strike in Majdal Shams has heightened fears of an all-out conflict erupting between Israel and Hezbollah, with concerns about the safety and security of the region. The possibility of a retaliatory strike from Israel looms large over Lebanon, as tensions continue to escalate. The ongoing conflict has had a limited impact on Lebanon’s summer tourism season, with many expats returning to visit their families amid the political uncertainty. Despite the challenges, Lebanese residents like Mohammad Mokhalid remain resilient in the face of adversity, expressing that they are used to the threat of war and airstrikes that have plagued the region for decades.
As the situation between Israel and Hezbollah remains tense, the threat of a retaliatory strike looms over Lebanon, prompting European airlines to suspend flights to the region. Efforts are being made to prevent further escalation and keep the situation under control. Despite the uncertainty, Lebanese expats continue to return to their homeland for the summer, with the ongoing conflict having a limited impact on the influx of visitors. The volatile situation in the region continues to be a cause for concern, with fears of a full-blown conflict increasing as tensions escalate. Amidst the turmoil, Lebanese residents are facing the uncertainty with resilience and fortitude, determined to carry on with their daily lives despite the threat of war.
