Story perspectives

Israeli Strikes Displace Millions, Soften Eid Celebrations

3/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Israeli strikes across Lebanon have killed more than 1,000 people.
They have displaced more than a million people.
Eid al-Fitr celebrations are somber as families shelter in makeshift tents amid ongoing conflict with Hezbollah.
In Beirut, displaced individuals struggle to find shelter.
Samah Hjola, a mother of two, reflected on how Eid used to be.

History

Historical Context

The Lebanese Civil War, which erupted in 1975, involved various factions, including the Lebanese National Movement and the Christian Lebanese Front, leading to over 120,000 deaths and massive displacement. Syrian intervention began in 1976 to support Maronite militias against the Palestine Liberation Organization. The ongoing violence today reflects the war's legacy, complicating humanitarian efforts and displacing over a million people in Lebanon.

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Story summary

Israeli strikes across Lebanon have killed more than 1,000 people.
They have displaced more than a million people.
Eid al-Fitr celebrations are somber as families shelter in makeshift tents amid ongoing conflict with Hezbollah.
In Beirut, displaced individuals struggle to find shelter.
Samah Hjola, a mother of two, reflected on how Eid used to be.

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