A Glimpse into the Lives of Displaced Families in Tripoli
As dusk settles over Tripoli, the parking lot of the Quality Inn buzzes with activity. Cars are crammed into every available space, while families congregate, their voices rising in a cacophony of children’s laughter mixed with the weight of worry. Once a vibrant venue for weddings and birthday celebrations, the hotel has now morphed into one of the largest shelters for Lebanese families fleeing the devastation of Israeli bombings in the southern regions of the country.
“I consider myself lucky,” says Hassan al-Aaker, a 54-year-old man who reflects a rare glimmer of hope amidst despair. “I am here with my entire family, and all we want is for this war to end so we can return home.” His voice trembles slightly as he admits he has no certainty about the fate of his house near the coastal city of Tyre, unsure if it will remain standing when the conflict finally subsides.
In Lebanon, the presence of displaced individuals is palpable, as they find refuge wherever possible. In the bustling capital of Beirut, many have resorted to erecting makeshift tents along the picturesque corniche by the sea. Ingeniously, they craft shelters using stray metal poles, scraps of awnings, and blankets, creating a semblance of home amidst chaos. In parks and public squares, families lay down floor coverings, securing them with cases of water and folded blankets, adapting to their new reality.
- Displaced families sheltering on a beach in Beirut this month.
- Children playing in an empty swimming pool at the Quality Inn in Tripoli, now serving as a temporary refuge.
The resilience of these families shines through, even in the face of such uncertainty and hardship.