Residents of Quebec with ties to Lebanon are feeling a sense of urgency to return home amid escalating violence in the region. This situation is particularly poignant for Siham Kortas, a 77-year-old Quebec resident currently in Beirut. She traveled to Lebanon to manage her late husband’s estate but is now facing bombardments nearby.
Current Situation in Lebanon
Since last week, the intensity of Israeli air strikes in Lebanon has significantly increased. The attacks are part of the broader conflict following joint U.S. and Israeli actions against Iran. Israeli forces claim they are targeting Hezbollah, the Iranian-aligned Lebanese group, especially after the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
- 74 fatalities reported due to ongoing airstrikes.
- 83,000 residents displaced according to Lebanese authorities.
- Areas near the airport, notably Al Lailaki, are under fire.
Pleas for Return
Siham initially postponed her visit due to fears. However, upon her arrival in Lebanon, her concerns materialized, leaving her eager to return to Quebec by March 19. She stated, “I might have a flight tomorrow morning, and if all goes well, I’ll arrive in Montreal around 3 PM.” Her children in Quebec are closely monitoring the situation and expressing their worry.
“Everyone is concerned,” Siham noted about her social media interactions. Her brother, Wissam Kortas, 80, decided to stay in Lebanon despite the dangers. “I’m worried, but that’s not a reason to leave,” he explained, highlighting the familial ties that bind him to the country.
Divided Views Among Lebanese
The conflict has created deep divides within Lebanese society. Siham reported a heated discussion with a cousin regarding support for Hezbollah, reflecting the varied opinions on the group’s influence in the country. The ongoing violence has elicited varied sentiments regarding national loyalty and the safety of communities.
Impact on Quebec’s Lebanese Community
The Lebanese diaspora in Quebec is experiencing a mix of anxiety and helplessness. Wassim Aboutanos, a composer from Gatineau, articulated the difficulty of feeling powerless while witnessing the conflict from afar. He described a shift in perception as recent air attacks have seemed less targeted and more indiscriminate.
“We are torn between encouraging our loved ones to leave and the desire to return ourselves,” Aboutanos stated.
Uncertain Future
While many families face uncertainty, the situation remains fluid. Maryanne Zéhil, a film director from Quebec currently in Turkey, expressed concern over her family’s safety, noting that even traditionally safe areas seem less secure.
Marion Zahar, a PhD student in political science with family in Lebanon, commented on the ongoing violence, referencing over 12,000 ceasefire violations since November 2022. “We continue to stay informed, but it’s exhausting,” she added.
Back in Beirut, Siham’s hope lies in her ability to return safely to Quebec. “I just want to cross the road to the airport without enduring further airstrikes,” she lamented, echoing the sentiments of many whose lives are caught in this complex conflict.
