The war between Lebanon and Hezbollah has devastated the lives of countless Lebanese. Following Israeli strikes, locals and Syrian nationals have taken refuge along the Mediterranean coast in makeshift tents and camps. Thousands are preparing to flee towards Syria and Iraq. In a heartfelt conversation while on the road to Syria, 8-year-old Suraiya shared with us her longing for her friends and grandmother.
At the Lebanon-Syria border, thousands are leaving their homeland with essentials packed. Beyond the fear of air raids in Beirut, there looms the grim prospect that deteriorating conditions may soon rob them of the chance to escape. An Israeli airstrike on October 4 left the Lebanon-Syria highway marred with craters over 10 feet deep, splitting and obliterating the road into two.
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Suraiya Misses Her Grandma
Suraiya, like many Lebanese citizens, is saying goodbye to Lebanon alongside her family, clutching cherished belongings. Red Cross volunteers stand by, ready to assist in this 'no man's land'. Women, elders, and children cross the border, their hands laden with fuel, food, and other necessities. Lebanon has not witnessed such humanitarian distress in decades.
Source: aajtak
Suraiya believes Lebanon is no longer safe for her. She feels fear and is moving to Syria, then Iraq. She will miss her school, friends, and grandmother dearly. Her mother emphasizes that Lebanon is no longer a place where they can stay, and the threats have forced them to leave.
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Forced to Leave Their Home
Suraiya's 7-year-old brother has also departed with the family, acknowledging the dangers in Lebanon. Some children carry bird cages, while others hold food and supplies. Fear and worry are etched on their faces; many young ones are clueless about their destiny. Whether these Lebanese emigrants will reach safety in Iraq or other parts of the Middle East is unknown, but fear drives them to bid farewell to their homeland.
