Rebuilding Efforts Continue In War-Torn Khiam, Lebanon

Israeli bulldozers work on the Hamamis hill near the town of Khiam, southern Lebanon, Monday, Feb. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar)

In the aftermath of the Israel-Hezbollah war that ravaged Khiam, Lebanon, residents like Sabah Abdullah are grappling with the destruction left in its wake. Abdullah, a 66-year-old, now resides in a rented home in Kawkaba, trying to piece together her life after her small grocery store was badly damaged during the 13-month conflict that ended in late November.

The war, brokered by the U.S., resulted in over 4,000 deaths, 16,000 wounded, and billions of dollars in damages in Lebanon. While damage can be compensated, the loss of lives remains irreplaceable, as Abdullah reflects on the tragedy that befell her community.

Despite a ceasefire extension, Israeli forces are set to remain in strategic locations in southern Lebanon, including the Hamamis hill on the outskirts of Khiam. The sight of bulldozers constructing fortifications hints at a prolonged Israeli military presence beyond the agreed deadline.

Hezbollah leader Naim Kassem has emphasized the need for a complete Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon, urging the Lebanese state to uphold the terms of the ceasefire deal and prevent any prolonged Israeli stay.

War resulted in thousands of casualties and extensive damages.

Khiam residents struggle with post-war devastation.

Israeli forces maintain strategic presence in southern Lebanon.

Hezbollah calls for complete Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon.

Khiam's infrastructure severely damaged, basic amenities lacking.

Residents receive support for rebuilding efforts.

Community shows resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

Scars of conflict serve as a reminder of sacrifices made.

Residents vow to reclaim their land and rebuild their homes.

Spirit of endurance prevails as community navigates post-war recovery.

Khiam, a town near the Israeli border, bore extensive damage, with entire blocks reduced to rubble and graffiti marking the aftermath of the conflict. The town's infrastructure, including the cemetery, suffered severe destruction, leaving residents grappling with the absence of basic amenities like electricity and running water.

Residents like Abdullah are slowly rebuilding their lives, with support from Hezbollah's construction arm and government experts estimating losses for compensation. While the future remains uncertain, the resilience of the community shines through as they vow to reclaim their land and rebuild their homes.

As Khiam residents navigate the challenges of post-war recovery, the scars of the conflict serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made for their homeland. The spirit of endurance and determination prevails, echoing a sentiment shared by many - the unwavering commitment to their land and the resolve to overcome adversity.