The Human Cost of Conflict: Inside Lebanon’s Civil Defense Response

As the sirens echo through the Bekaa Valley, Samir El Chekieh, a 32-year-old firefighter and paramedic with the Lebanese Civil Defense Force (CDF), races toward the scene of an Israeli air strike. His day begins without breakfast, and after only a few hours of sleep, he joins his colleagues on the front lines of an escalating conflict. Since the resurgence of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, the CDF’s role has become increasingly critical, grappling with a growing number of civilian casualties.

A Shift in Warfare

The current conflict starkly contrasts with the 2006 war, according to Samir. He notes that recent air strikes have targeted not only military installations but also civilian structures and humanitarian workers. This shift has resulted in rising fatalities among non-combatants, including women and children.

Samir recounts that in their daily calls for help, CDF workers frequently encounter innocent victims caught in the crossfire.

The war has spread beyond southern Lebanon into regions like Baalbek and Sidon, areas historically aligned with Hezbollah. Israel claims its operations focus on dismantling Hezbollah’s military capabilities, asserting that it has significantly reduced their arsenal. However, Hezbollah continues to launch rockets into Israel daily.

The Reality on the Ground

During a recent field observation by the BBC in El Karak, chaos reigned as emergency responders searched for survivors amidst rubble. The aftermath of a powerful explosion left devastation in its wake. While rushing to assist victims, Samir experienced firsthand the harrowing consequences of these strikes.

The scene was grim—he discovered fragments of a child’s body while attempting to rescue trapped survivors. Despite this trauma, the CDF remains committed to saving lives without discrimination between sects or backgrounds.

As Samir puts it, “We are humanitarians first; our mission transcends religious or ethnic lines.”

Tragically, reports from the UN indicate that children have been disproportionately affected by this conflict. The ongoing violence weighs heavily on Samir and his team as they confront daily reminders of loss and suffering.

Looking Ahead: An Uncertain Future

The situation remains precarious as both sides engage in relentless exchanges of fire. With tens of thousands displaced and entire neighborhoods decimated, communities face an uncertain future amid talks for a ceasefire that appear increasingly tenuous.

In Baalbek, where families were forced to flee under dire conditions, residents hold onto their homes and memories despite overwhelming destruction. Voices like Hussein Nassereldine’s echo sentiments shared by many who refuse to abandon their roots.

As humanitarian efforts continue amid chaos, Samir remains resolute in his mission. He finds strength in saving lives—a commitment forged through faith amid adversity.

In this ongoing conflict, Lebanon stands at a crossroads; the resolve of its people will determine its path forward amidst sorrow and resilience.