A Nation Under Fire: Lebanon's Struggle to Stay United

Lebanon is at a critical point because it is experiencing conflict, internal tension, and global strain. 

Even after a ceasefire deal was made with Israel and Hezbollah in November, Lebanon still sees frequent Israeli airstrikes. One drone strike in Bint Jbeil killed five people, including kids. Lebanon says these actions affect its independence. Earlier in 2025, Israel did air attacks on south Lebanon before elections, causing deaths and injuries to people. 

Under pressure from the U.S., the Lebanese government plans to control weapons within state forces and disarm Hezbollah, which resists this. Hezbollah leaders warn of serious consequences if the state challenges them, risking internal conflict. 

The U.S. has approved $230 million for Lebanon’s security, $190 million for the Lebanese Armed Forces and $40 million for internal security forces. This money aims to support independence and carry out UN orders. The EU has given humanitarian aid and has asked groups to keep Lebanon from getting more involved in regional conflict. 

The conflict has caused much suffering. In 2024, attacks in southern Lebanon hurt thousands and displaced around a million people. These people look for safety in other areas of Lebanon or in Syria. Assistance with food, shelter, and health care has been promised by European, Arab, and other countries. 

European countries and the EU have asked for a ceasefire and warned that Lebanon could be pulled into a regional war. Suggested plans involve a ceasefire watched by a joint committee including the U.S, France, Israel, and Lebanon. In October 2025, Pope Leo said his first global visit would include Lebanon to push interreligious peace and note suffering in conflict areas. 

Lebanon’s future relies on keeping internal peace without causing civil conflict. The state's effort to control weapons faces strong resistance. Aid and diplomacy might provide support, but only if violence doesn't get worse. 
 

References:

Reuters. (2025, September 21). Israeli drone strikes kill five, including children, in southern Lebanon. Reuters. https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/israeli-drone-strikes-kill-five-including-children-southern-lebanon-ministry-2025-09-21/

Reuters. (2024, October 15). Mass displacement in Lebanon war revives spectre of sectarian strife. Reuters. https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/mass-displacement-lebanon-war-revives-spectre-sectarian-strife-2024-10-15/