The spirit of Eid al-Adha has been overshadowed by war and displacement across southern Lebanon, where families in border villages face insecurity, destruction, and separation during what was once a joyful religious celebration.
In the Arqoub region of the Hasbaya district, communities including Shebaa, Kfarhamam, and Marj al-Zouhour have seen traditional Eid gatherings replaced by fear, displacement, and uncertainty following continuing Israeli attacks near the border.
Schools and public buildings have become temporary shelters for displaced families unable or unwilling to return to damaged villages. Many residents say the emotional impact of repeated evacuations has transformed holidays into painful reminders of instability and loss.
Nasreen Abdul Aal, a displaced mother living in a shelter in Marj al-Zouhour after fleeing Ain Arab village multiple times, described how the conflict has deeply affected children and family life. She said familiar Eid traditions, including family reunions and celebrations, have nearly disappeared under the weight of ongoing violence and insecurity.
Farmers throughout the region have also suffered heavy economic losses after missing harvest seasons and abandoning agricultural work because of continued attacks. Residents increasingly fear permanent displacement and the destruction of homes that once represented stability and community identity.
Despite the difficult conditions, some families continue trying to preserve elements of the holiday. In Kfarhamam, longtime resident Um Najib Fares said she refuses to abandon her home even as nightly shelling and airstrikes intensify. Meanwhile, elderly residents in Shebaa continue preparing traditional Eid sweets and prayers in hopes of better days ahead.
Local officials say the social fabric of border villages has dramatically changed as thousands remain displaced and communities experience unprecedented emptiness during what should be a time of unity and celebration.
The humanitarian situation continues to worsen amid ongoing military escalation between Israel and armed groups in southern Lebanon. Official figures report thousands killed, injured, and displaced since the expansion of Israeli operations earlier this year, despite an internationally mediated ceasefire agreement.
For many families across southern Lebanon, this year’s Eid al-Adha reflects resilience overshadowed by grief, uncertainty, and the longing for peace.
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PRESS UPDATE