Following a resurgence of hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel last month, triggered by the assassination of Iran’s supreme leader, Israel initiated an extensive bombing campaign and ground offensive in southern Lebanon. This military action has resulted in the displacement of over 1.2 million individuals and has claimed the lives of more than 2,000 people. Israel has announced its intention to occupy significant portions of southern Lebanon and has indicated that residences near its designated buffer zone will be demolished, referencing strategies used in Rafah and Beit Hanoun in Gaza. This has raised concerns about the potential for prolonged displacement of residents.

The Israeli Defense Forces have stated that their operations are focused on dismantling Hezbollah’s infrastructure, targeting locations such as tunnels and military installations that they allege are situated within civilian neighborhoods. Ghia Hajo, who was forced to leave her home near Tyre with her family on March 2, expresses uncertainty about when she will be able to return to her residence. In light of these developments, Will Christou, a reporter for the Guardian covering Lebanon, contemplates the future for the nation and for individuals like Ghia.