The Diverse Views of Christian and Druze Lebanese on the War between Israel and Hezbollah
As tensions escalated between Israel and Hezbollah, views within Lebanon became deeply divided. In particular, Christian and Druze communities residing in Lebanon hold unique perspectives that reflect a complex interplay of historical, religious, and political factors.
Understanding the Context
Lebanon, with its delicate ethnic and religious balance, faces unique challenges when it comes to conflicts both within and beyond its borders. The country is home to a diverse array of communities, each with its own voice and stance on the Israel-Hezbollah war.
Druze and Christian Stances on the War
Both the Druze and Christian communities in Lebanon view the war as highly detrimental to their nation. They see it as a contentious and costly affair, with little regard for the people of Lebanon. The overwhelming majority of these communities blame Hezbollah for exacerbating the situation and contributing to the chaos.
Hezbollah, a prominent military and political group in Lebanon, is primarily a Shia Islamic organization. However, its influence spans across various confessional lines. Nonetheless, only a small portion of the Lebanese population identifies as Shia Muslim—approximately 31 percent. The remaining population consists of Sunni Muslims (32 percent), Christians (32 percent), and Druze (4.5 percent).
Divided Lebanon
Within Lebanon, the stakes are high, and the divide is significant. While some segments of the population support Hezbollah, believing in their defensive capabilities and resilience, others are eager to see their power diminished or even eliminated. This sentiment stems from a distrust of Hezbollah's engagement in the conflict and their perceived role in provoking the current situation.
Conversely, there is a shared sentiment across these communities that does not align with either side. The majority of Christians and Druze, along with other Lebanese communities, seek peace and stability. They yearn for a resolution that allows Lebanon to be left alone, free from the encroachment and influence of both Israel and Hezbollah. Many feel that their neutrality and desire for tranquility have been overshadowed by the heightened hostilities.
Coexistence Amidst Turmoil
The war between Israel and Hezbollah has cast a long shadow over Lebanon. While some factions support Hezbollah’s stance, many in the Druze and Christian communities view it as a calamity that undermines their collective interests and aspirations. The call for peace and neutrality highlights the delicate balance that Lebanese society must negotiate in the midst of regional conflict.
These views underscore the challenges of maintaining unity in a country torn by internal and external conflicts. As the situation evolves, the international community and regional players would do well to support efforts towards peace and reconciliation in Lebanon, respecting the diverse voices and perspectives of its citizenry.