NNA - The National News Agency (NNA) on Tuesday continued its coverage of the return of residents to their border southern villages, supported by the Lebanese Army, as they made their way back to assess the damage. A group of locals from Alama al-Shaab in the Tyre district, accompanied by military personnel, entered their homes to survey the aftermath of the recent conflict.
The damage was immediately apparent as they toured the town's inner neighborhoods. Widespread destruction was evident across residential homes, infrastructure, and essential utilities, including water and electricity networks. Furthermore, significant damage was sustained by the town's churches and its historic district, home to centuries-old buildings.
Among the most poignant losses was the devastation of the village’s Christian quarters, which included ancient homes, as well as the destruction of several "palaces", such as the residence of former mayor Asaad Zahrab.
Zahrab expressed his anguish, stating, "More than fifty years of hard work abroad have turned to rubble. I lost everything in an instant when my house was hit by enemy airstrikes. All I had—my life's work—has turned to dust in my hometown of Alama al-Shaab, where I hoped to settle and build a future for my children, just a few meters from the enemy."
Zahrab, now 67, reflected on the personal toll of the destruction, saying, "When I saw my home reduced to ruins upon returning from the UAE, I wished I could be buried beneath it all. Who will compensate me for the labor of my lifetime? How can I start over at my age?"
Zahrab went on to emphasize the emotional and practical consequences, noting, "Livelihood is as vital as life itself. Today, my soul has been lost along with all that I’ve witnessed. Everything has turned to ash. How am I to live? I wished for death. I urge the government to begin reconstruction immediately, as the town lacks electricity, water, and proper roads. We need help to rebuild what the war has destroyed and bring life back to the village."
Zahrab also appealed to Lebanon's political leaders, saying, "I hope the country's leaders turn their attention to the people of the South and my town of Alama al-Shaab."
Further damage was reported at the municipal headquarters of Alama al-Shaab, with several vehicles destroyed. In addition, local beekeeper Elie Sayah reported significant losses, with over 900 beehives damaged.
Sayah called on relevant authorities to assess the damage and assist in restoring the area’s livelihood.
Meanwhile, Milad Eid, the owner of Alama Verde Hotel, also expressed his distress, noting that the hotel had been heavily bombed, leaving it in ruins.
"Everything is destroyed. We urge the authorities to expedite damage assessments so we can return to our businesses. Like all southern residents, we have paid a heavy price in this war," Eid said.
The residents of Alama al-Shaab, devastated by the destruction, are now calling for urgent support to rebuild their homes, livelihoods, and communities, hoping for the restoration of their once-thriving town.
=================R.H.
