War in the Middle East

War and Displacement: A Population Reconfiguration?
Behind the ScenesWar and Displacement: A Population Reconfiguration?

The crisis of displacement among residents of southern Lebanon, the Beqaa, and the southern suburbs of Beirut is intensifying. Many individuals have taken refuge in schools and shelters, spreading out on the grounds and sidewalks, while those wealthier have rented homes and businesses in safer areas across Lebanon to escape the relentless Israeli ...

Misinformation: What Are the Consequences for Spreading Fake News in Lebanon?
ExplainerMisinformation: What Are the Consequences for Spreading Fake News in Lebanon?

In recent days, and particularly in recent hours, Lebanon has been inundated with fake news, misinformation, and deceptive reports as the country remains embroiled in a war that has been ongoing for over a year between Hezbollah and Israel. This misinformation is dangerous for several reasons, primarily because its spread fuels disinformation and ...

Tenenti: ‘Widespread Destruction’ in Southern Lebanon
Tenenti: ‘Widespread Destruction’ in Southern Lebanon

The escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has led to widespread destruction of towns and villages in southern Lebanon, according to the UN peacekeeping force, UNIFIL. Andrea Tenenti, the UNIFIL spokesman, emphasized the importance of the peacekeeping force's presence, despite repeated attacks on their positions by Israeli forces. "The ...

Fake Evacuation Calls Spark Panic... How to Identify Real Threats?
ExplainerFake Evacuation Calls Spark Panic... How to Identify Real Threats?

Many Lebanese citizens have been receiving fabricated calls or messages urging them to evacuate their homes, causing widespread panic. These messages closely resemble real Israeli threats that are often followed by airstrikes or attacks. In this context, technology and communications consultant, engineer Amer Tabsh, explained to Houna Lubnan* ...

Who Could Succeed Yahya Sinwar at the Helm of Hamas?
ExplainerWho Could Succeed Yahya Sinwar at the Helm of Hamas?

Israel's announcement on Thursday of the elimination of Yahya Sinwar, the leader of Hamas and a significant figure within the organization, marks a pivotal moment following over a year of a devastating conflict in Gaza. With Yahya Sinwar's passing, several names have surfaced as potential successors within the Hamas leadership. These leaders have ...

The Chaos of Insurance Against War Risks
The Chaos of Insurance Against War Risks

Lebanon is under fire, and insurance premiums against war risks are reaching historic peaks. Reinsurers adjust the prices of premiums in real-time, responding instantly to changes in the intensity of the fighting on the ground. What is valid at one moment may no longer be so a few hours later. It’s chaos. Renewing war risk insurance policies in ...

Electing a President Today: A Painkiller for a Cancer
AnalysisElecting a President Today: A Painkiller for a Cancer

This situation is widely recognized. Fortunately, for the first time in Lebanon's history, the current state of vacancy may actually be advantageous. Had a president been elected within the constitutional deadlines in 2022, the new leader would have had to navigate the fallout from the October 7 crisis, the repercussions of the Al-Aqsa flood, and ...

Israeli Airstrikes in South and Beqaa,  Panic in Downtown Beirut
Israeli Airstrikes in South and Beqaa, Panic in Downtown Beirut

Throughout Thursday, Israeli raids primarily targeted South Lebanon, and evacuation orders, allegedly issued by the Israeli army, caused panic in several areas. From 3 PM, panic spread among those working or residing in downtown Beirut. Organizations and institutions, including the offices of al-Jazeera, received successive anonymous calls urging ...

War Diary: Day 377
War Diary: Day 377

This is Beirut brings you a daily recap of the war and its repercussions on the region. Here are the main highlights for October 17, 2024.

Beirut Struggles Under Displacement Crisis Pressure
Beirut Struggles Under Displacement Crisis Pressure

As Israeli strikes on Lebanon persist, over 1.4 million displaced people have fled to Beirut, pushing the city's waste, traffic and water systems to their limits. Urgent action is needed to ease the growing strain on the capital.

Macron's Criticism of Israel Sparks Anger in France
Macron's Criticism of Israel Sparks Anger in France

Emmanuel Macron's comments suggesting that Israel owes its existence to a UN resolution have sparked unease in France. The president has faced a furious rebuke from the speaker of the upper house, as well as disquiet from within his own ranks. The remarks attributed to Macron during a cabinet meeting on Tuesday—that Israel needs to adhere to UN ...