Lebanon is celebrating the holiday season with festive spirit and unity, weeks after a ceasefire ended a 14-month conflict, bringing hope and comfort to a nation in recovery.
Lebanon is beginning to recover from a devastating 14-month conflict that ended with a ceasefire on November 27, 2024. While the country faces significant challenges, the holiday season has provided a moment of unity and hope. The conflict, primarily between Hezbollah and Israel, claimed the lives of 3,961 people, with civilians bearing the brunt of the violence. The economic cost of the war is also steep, with damages and losses estimated at US$8.5 billion, according to a World Bank report.
Despite the hardships, the festive spirit is alive in Lebanon. Cities like Byblos have come alive with Christmas lights, music, and decorations, offering a much-needed respite from the turmoil. Cherine Al-Tom, a Lebanese citizen, captured the essence of the nation's resilience, saying, "If they fall a hundred times, they will stand back up and keep moving." Walking through the lively streets, Al-Tom emphasized the importance of keeping traditions alive, adding, "We are in Christmas mood – this is very beautiful and we must follow through with our children and let them experience Christmas."
The Christmas markets have become a symbol of hope and unity, drawing people from all factions to celebrate together. Cynthia Khalife, founder of the 'Hype and Happenings' organization, which is hosting the Byblos Christmas market, remarked, "As you can see, people from all factions have gathered here. We are all one people united in joy and peace. We hope that this year will be a year of hope for everyone."
The toll of the conflict on Lebanon’s infrastructure and economy is undeniable, but the spirit of the Lebanese people remains strong. The 2024 Christmas season marks not only a time for celebration but also a symbol of the nation's resilience and determination to rebuild and move forward.
UAE to reopen its embassy in Beirut, strengthening ties with Lebanon after a directive from President Mohammed bin Zayed and President Joseph Aoun.
Lebanon and Syria unite to secure borders, address smuggling, and discuss boundary issues in a historic meeting between leaders after 15 years.
U.S. President Joe Biden expressed optimism over progress in Gaza ceasefire talks while welcoming Lebanon’s new president, emphasizing positive developments in the region despite ongoing challenges.
Lebanon's parliament has elected Army Commander General Joseph Aoun as president, ending a vacancy that has lasted since 2022. Aoun's victory follows a second round of voting after initial setbacks.
Thousands in Belgrade held a silent protest outside RTS, honouring victims of a roof collapse. University students demanded justice for the tragedy, blaming Serbian authorities.
South Korea's impeached president Yoon Suk Yeol appeared in court to contest his detention extension on insurrection charges tied to his martial law declaration.
A ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas has been reached, with hostages set to be released after over 15 months of conflict. The deal also includes a prisoner exchange, offering hope for peace despite ongoing violence in Gaza.
After the U.S. Supreme Court upheld a law that could ban TikTok over national security concerns, President Biden stated the final decision would rest with the next president, Donald Trump, who is reportedly considering a temporary delay of enforcement
Reports of a two-month halt in Azerbaijani gas supplies to Serbia are false. Despite a technical issue at Shah Deniz Alpha, Shah Deniz Bravo ensures steady exports, with supplies set to resume soon. BP confirms no damage or environmental impact.
Coast Guard divers Chuck Fox and Corey Smith from the US Cutter *Polar Star* successfully repaired a leaking shaft in the freezing waters of McMurdo Sound, Antarctica.
Azerbaijan has temporarily halted its contracted natural gas supply to Bulgaria following a technical issue at BP's Alpha platform in the Shah Deniz gas field.
As we welcome the new year, it’s time to focus on species needing urgent conservation in 2025. From delicate lizards to mighty hornbills and massive sharks, all face the threat of extinction.
Over 100 Paris 2024 Olympic medals were returned due to quality issues linked to EU regulations and an untested varnish formula. The IOC has pledged to replace all defective medals.
Thousands in Belgrade held a silent protest outside RTS, honouring victims of a roof collapse. University students demanded justice for the tragedy, blaming Serbian authorities.
South Korea's impeached president Yoon Suk Yeol appeared in court to contest his detention extension on insurrection charges tied to his martial law declaration.
After the U.S. Supreme Court upheld a law that could ban TikTok over national security concerns, President Biden stated the final decision would rest with the next president, Donald Trump, who is reportedly considering a temporary delay of enforcement
A fire ravaged a shopping mall in Culiacán, Mexico, on January 16, 2025, causing significant damage, including the collapse of the roof housing a casino. Emergency responders worked to control the blaze, with one injury and two others treated for nervous breakdowns. Cause remains unknown.
Thousands in Belgrade held a silent protest outside RTS, honouring victims of a roof collapse. University students demanded justice for the tragedy, blaming Serbian authorities.
South Korea's impeached president Yoon Suk Yeol appeared in court to contest his detention extension on insurrection charges tied to his martial law declaration.
A ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas has been reached, with hostages set to be released after over 15 months of conflict. The deal also includes a prisoner exchange, offering hope for peace despite ongoing violence in Gaza.
After the U.S. Supreme Court upheld a law that could ban TikTok over national security concerns, President Biden stated the final decision would rest with the next president, Donald Trump, who is reportedly considering a temporary delay of enforcement
You can download the AnewZ application from Play Store and the App Store.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment