Thousands of Displaced Lebanese Families Return from Syria Following Ceasefire with Israel

Thousands of people have been returning to Lebanon from Syria following a ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel. This comes after nearly 14 months of conflict. At the Jousieh border crossing in Syria's Homs province, cars were lined up bumper-to-bumper on Thursday, waiting to enter Lebanon. The crossing is one of only two operational border points between the countries after Israeli airstrikes closed the others.

Ceasefire Sparks Mass Return

The ceasefire, which began early Wednesday, prompted thousands to start their journey back to Lebanon. Families packed vehicles with belongings like suitcases and blankets. Children carried backpacks, some wrapped in blankets for warmth. Despite the relief of returning home, many faced the harsh reality of potential destruction awaiting them.

Over 600,000 people fled from Lebanon to Syria in the past year due to escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. This movement marks a significant change as Lebanon still hosts over a million Syrian refugees who fled their own country's war starting in 2011. The border between Lebanon and Syria stretches 375 kilometres.

Personal Stories Amidst Return

On the first day of the ceasefire, more than 2,000 people crossed into Lebanon, according to a Syrian security official at Jousieh. By Thursday, over 4,000 had returned, with numbers continuing to rise. The border hall was crowded with families waiting for passport or ID clearance. Some smoked or sat on luggage as they awaited their turn.

Hasan Fliti, a 54-year-old dairy shop owner, expressed mixed emotions about returning home. "We have been in Syria since September 23," he said. "I am happy that there is a ceasefire and there is no more destruction." Fliti left his job and home due to the war and is now returning with his family.

Challenges and Hopes

Wafa Wehbe, 37, shared her feelings about going back to Lebanon after over a month in Syria. "My house is gone," she said, describing her return as bittersweet due to the loss of martyrs. Her home in Khiyam was destroyed, but she plans to stay with her sister while mourning those who died fighting.

Ghinwa Arzouni also spoke about her journey home from Homs. She expressed both excitement and fear about the trip back to southern Lebanon. "Our house in the south is okay," she said, noting possible damage like broken glass but hoping for minimal destruction upon arrival.

As people continue to return to Lebanon under the ceasefire agreement, they face both relief and uncertainty about what awaits them at home. The situation highlights ongoing challenges for those affected by regional conflicts and their hopes for peace and stability in the future.