Dahiyeh Families Displaced by Conflict Facing New Challenges Related to Identity
Fatima Kandeel, a 43-year-old Lebanese mother, and her two sons have recently settled into a new rented apartment in the southern suburbs of Beirut, specifically in Laylake, after being temporarily housed with her sister, Aida, for several months. This transition followed a ceasefire brokered between Israel and Lebanon, which, while halting the most intense attacks, left the region on edge. The family’s resolve to secure their own space reflects not only a desire for normalcy but also the resilience that defines many within their community.
The humble living room of Fatima’s new apartment, with merely two armchairs and a shisha pipe, serves as a canvas displaying her familial history. A prominent feature is a framed photo of Hassan Nasrallah, the late leader of Hezbollah, flanked by a portrait of her 21-year-old nephew, a martyr who bravely fought in past conflicts. As the conflict in Gaza intensified on October 7, 2023, Hezbollah reaffirmed its support for Palestine, leading to heightened hostilities along the Israel-Lebanon border—areas that have long been impacted due to their association with Hezbollah.
Life for Fatima took a difficult turn when Israeli air strikes destroyed their previous home in Dahiyeh’s Hay el-Selom district. However, hope and resilience shine through Fatima as she recounts her family’s experiences in a narrative filled with warmth and a firm commitment to their roots. Her sons, Hassan and Hussein, managed to salvage precious belongings from the rubble, including two wardrobes and a bed. Despite the destruction surrounding them, Fatima’s determination to restore these items became emblematic of her resistance.
The emotional ache from loss is not easily masked; yet, Fatima finds solace and community in Dahiyeh. “I love the people here. Everyone is kind,” she affirms, signifying the strong communal ties that characterize her neighborhood, known for its hospitality and kindness. Her sons echo similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of the sense of belonging that Dahiyeh provides.
In a neighboring home, her sister Iman expresses a contrasting desire to leave for a safer environment, citing the cycles of fear and displacement that have long plagued their history. Despite their challenges, both families remain steadfast in their commitment to Lebanon, reflecting an indomitable spirit among those facing adversity.
Released from the grip of war, Fatima’s narrative encapsulates resilience, hope, and the deep bonds of community, showcasing how, even in the face of hardship, the human spirit can prevail. The families, intertwined by blood and affection, highlight the strength of the Lebanese populace in the face of ongoing conflict.
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