The drums of war

Dear reader,

This week, the drums of war are getting louder.

For the first time since the start of the Gaza war on Oct. 7, 2023, US officials warn against an Israeli ground invasion in southern Lebanon.

Hezbollah keeps saying it does not want a war.

But Israel is amping up its campaign, and striking further inside of the country.

Meanwhile, Lebanese people picked up again the fight for their rights. These past weeks, civil servants and teachers went on strike and protested to get decent pay.

One cannot help but wonder how much more of a chaotic history a country can witness.

Our French-speaking sister publication L’Orient-Le Jour turns 100 this year. It witnessed the French mandate, the creation of Lebanon, the civil war(s), the protests, occupations, the fight for a country, the financial crisis, the brain drain(s), the thawra, the corruption and, of course, all the glory days, loves and joys in between.

One thing is for sure. This country can’t seem to catch a decent break. We are just a tiny boat in an ocean of tumultuous waves.

We can only do our best to keep that boat above water.

L’Orient Today