The Christian Border Villages Association in southern Lebanon expressed its deep concern about the repeated bombardment of border villages, stressing that the recent attacks led to civilian casualties and injuries and the destruction of homes, property and infrastructure, in addition to imposing a difficult reality of fear and isolation on the residents who chose to remain on their land despite the current circumstances.
In a statement, the group indicated that the roads leading to a number of villages have become cut off or extremely dangerous, pointing out that some towns, especially in the western sector, are living in a state of almost complete isolation, which threatens the safety of citizens and impedes the access of aid and basic services to them.
He added that the border villages are also facing a serious decline in health services as a result of the disruption or closure of a number of health centers and dispensaries, in addition to the significant damage to homes and property.
The gathering affirmed that the people of the border villages are Lebanese citizens with full rights, and it is the duty of the Lebanese state to protect their lives, secure their safety, preserve their property, and guarantee their right to live in dignity and remain on their land.
He called on the Lebanese government to assume its national and constitutional responsibilities towards the border villages and their residents, and to work immediately to open safe humanitarian and health corridors that guarantee the access of citizens, aid, and medical and relief teams to the affected and isolated villages.
He also called for rehabilitating and opening health centers and dispensaries in the border villages, and providing the necessary equipment, medicines, and medical personnel for them, in addition to supporting hospitals that receive people from the border areas and enabling them to continue providing their services in light of the current circumstances.
The gathering concluded its statement by emphasizing that the people of the border villages cling to their land, roots, and history, but this steadfastness cannot be a substitute for the state carrying out its duties, warning that continued silence and inaction regarding what is happening doubles the scale of the humanitarian and national loss to which this region is exposed.
The statement was signed by residents of the towns of: Alma Al-Shaab, Al-Quzah, Dibal, Rmeish, Ain Ebel, Deir Mimas, Burj Al-Muluk, Al-Qulaya, Jdeidet Marjayoun, Al-Buwayda, Ebel Al-Saqi, Rashaya Al-Fakhar, Kawkaba and Abu Qamha.
