Staying Amid Chaos: The Border Town in Lebanon Refusing to Flee
As the Israel-Hezbollah conflict escalates, hundreds of thousands in Lebanon’s southern regions have abandoned their homes, seeking safety from the violence. However, in Rmeish, a border town just 2 km from the Israeli frontier, its 7,000 residents remain steadfast, refusing to leave despite the relentless bombardment surrounding them.
This Maronite Christian community finds itself in the heart of the conflict, enduring shattered windows, cracked walls, and sleepless nights. “The damage is everywhere—maybe 90% of homes have been hit,” says Jiries al-Alam, a local farmer and undertaker. “We’ve stayed, but it’s not easy. Airstrikes keep us awake, and the flares have killed 200 of my cattle. Winter will be harsh.”
Caught in Crossfire
Rmeish stands out as the only border town in Lebanon not explicitly ordered to evacuate by Israeli forces. Yet, its location makes it a precarious stronghold. Since Hezbollah began launching rockets into northern Israel following Hamas’ attack on October 7, Israeli strikes have targeted Lebanon, placing Rmeish under constant threat.
The town’s residents, desperate to avoid becoming casualties of the war, have raised white flags on homes and vehicles as symbols of neutrality. “We don’t want war. We only want to stay in our homes,” says Father George al-Ameel, a priest and teacher in Rmeish.
Lives Upended
For many, life in Rmeish has become a daily struggle. Heavy fighting in nearby villages forced families like Rasha Makhbour’s to flee within the town itself. “Our house was struck in the middle of the night. We had to move immediately,” recalls the 38-year-old mother of six. She believes the rocket that hit her home came from the south, not Israel. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), however, deny striking the town, attributing such incidents to failed Hezbollah launches.
Isolation and Shortages
With over 640,000 people fleeing southern Lebanon since Israel’s ground invasion began, Rmeish residents face dwindling resources. Mayor Milad al-Alam says supply routes have been cut, leaving the town isolated. The Lebanese army, once stationed in Rmeish, has withdrawn to avoid entanglement in the conflict, further deepening the residents’ vulnerability.
“Fuel, food, and medicine are running out,” says Father al-Ameel. The town recently received a single UN aid convoy, but ongoing blockades complicate further deliveries.
Despite these hardships, the people of Rmeish remain defiant. “If the roads stay closed, we’ll survive on olives,” says Jiries al-Alam. “This is our home. We’re not leaving, no matter what.”
A Question of Loyalty
The community’s resolve hasn’t shielded it from suspicion. Whispers accuse Rmeish of collaboration with Israel, an allegation the residents vehemently deny. “We’re Lebanese, and our only goal is to protect our identity and country,” says Father al-Ameel.
For now, the residents of Rmeish cling to hope. “We may be surrounded by war,” says Mayor al-Alam, “but we’re staying—because this is who we are.”
