Displacement
Southern Lebanon Faces Reconstruction and Uncertainty as UNIFIL Prepares to Leave
Nearly one million displaced Lebanese have returned home, but daily Israeli violations, shattered infrastructure and the looming UNIFIL withdrawal leave communities in southern Lebanon facing a fragile future.
American Impact Alliance News Desk2 minute read
Returnees Confront Ongoing Security Violations
UN data show a 13% rise in internally displaced persons returning to southern Lebanon since September, bringing the number of returnees close to one million. Yet daily violations by Israeli forces persist, including the construction of military positions, roads, airstrikes and artillery fire along the Blue Line. A recent incident near Wadi Jilu saw UNIFIL peacekeepers fired upon; they returned fire, the shooting stopped, and no injuries were reported. UNIFIL has called for a prompt Lebanese government investigation, underscoring the precarious security environment that returning families must navigate.
Widespread Infrastructure Damage Hinders Livelihoods
Returning residents encounter villages where essential services have been destroyed. Electricity networks, water systems and roadways are reported as extensively damaged, complicating daily life and agricultural activities such as olive harvesting. Around 304,500 people remain displaced outside their areas of origin, reflecting the scale of the reconstruction challenge. The loss of homes and livelihoods has been especially acute in Naqoura, once a bustling hub now reduced to rubble, leaving families without shelter, income or reliable access to basic utilities.
UNIFIL’s Exit Raises Economic and Security Concerns
UNIFIL’s 48‑year mandate ends in 2026, with withdrawal preparations slated to begin in January 2027. Beyond its security role, the mission provides significant employment for Lebanese staff and contributes to the local economy. As the peacekeepers prepare to leave, many national staff face a difficult transition after losing homes or family members in the conflict. UN officials warn that the departure adds uncertainty to an already unstable region, emphasizing the need for continued international monitoring and engagement to support stability and aid reconstruction efforts.