Lebanese Residents Return to War‑Damaged Southern Villages Despite Lack of Shelter and Water

Residents are beginning to return to villages across southern Lebanon that were heavily damaged during Israel’s recent military operation. The movement follows weeks of displacement after airstrikes and ground incursions left homes, infrastructure and farmland in ruins, prompting the United Nations and humanitarian agencies to coordinate temporary shelters and basic services for the affected population.

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency estimates that roughly 150,000 people were forced to flee the border districts of Tyre, Jezzine and Nabatieh. Satellite imagery and on‑the‑ground assessments confirm extensive destruction of residential structures, schools and health clinics, while agricultural fields suffered significant loss of crops. Lebanese authorities, together with international partners, have begun de‑mining operations and are distributing food, water and medical supplies to support the returning families. Security officials report that the Israeli forces have withdrawn from the immediate vicinity, allowing local police to re‑establish a presence and facilitate the safe re‑entry of civilians.

While the return of residents marks a tentative step toward normalcy, reconstruction efforts are expected to take months, and many families remain without permanent housing. UN agencies have called for additional funding to rebuild critical infrastructure and to provide psychosocial support for those who witnessed the conflict. The situation underscores the ongoing need for sustained humanitarian assistance and coordinated recovery planning in the region.