Violence has once again escalated in Lebanon with devastating intensity. According to figures released by the Lebanese government, nearly 30,000 people have been displaced following a wave of overnight airstrikes on Monday, March 2, shattering the fragile calm of recent months. The pontifical foundation Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) remains in contact with local project partners to assess the need for emergency assistance.
Unrelenting Escalation in Beirut and the South
ACN local staff in Lebanon reported that more than ten powerful airstrikes struck Beirut’s southern suburbs at around 2:30 a.m. on Monday. Explosions were heard far beyond the capital, reaching regions such as Keserwan, southern Lebanon, and the Beqaa Valley.
Following months of near-daily strikes, tensions escalated after Hezbollah claimed responsibility for missile launches toward Israel, prompting an immediate response that effectively ended the ceasefire. Evacuation warnings sent to around 50 villages prompted thousands of families onto the roads, overwhelming highways for hours.
“They are our people”: The Church as a Shelter
In the Beqaa Valley, the crisis is unfolding in ways reminiscent of the 2024 war. Maronite Bishop Hanna Rahme of Baalbek–Deir El Ahmar reported that Muslim and Christian families are once again seeking refuge in Deir El Ahmar. Public schools and St. Nohra Church have opened their doors to host displaced families.
Despite extremely limited means, Bishop Rahme insisted the Church will not abandon those in need:
“They are our people; we will take care of them with what we have.”
In the nearby village of Zboud, approximately 100 people have taken refuge at a school run by the Sisters of the Good Service, which has now reached full capacity. Sr. Jocelyne Joumaa warned:
“We are safe for now, but certainly it will be our turn soon.”
A Call for International Solidarity
While the Lebanese government has opened public shelters, the situation remains highly volatile. Several dioceses have indicated that if the escalation continues, they may be forced to seek international assistance to provide food, emergency kits, and basic support to displaced families. ACN continues to monitor developments closely and calls for prayer for peace and stability in Lebanon and across the Middle East.
