A new reality is unfolding — one that Hezbollah has not experienced in its previous wars. These subtle changes are likely to make headlines soon, as several surprises can be expected. Some expatriates who own homes in border villages, which the group has transformed into weapons and missile depots, have filed lawsuits against Hezbollah. They accuse the group of digging tunnels under their homes, leading to Israeli strikes.
At a time when all norms in Lebanon and its surrounding regions have been overturned, with one downfall following another — from Hamas in Gaza to Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Assad regime in Syria — huge changes continue to unfold, provoking reactions from the entire “Axis of resistance.” This axis has collapsed, dragging along those who paid the high price, yet still pretended to be victorious. The aftermath has left countless victims and widespread destruction.
In the past, slogans supporting Hezbollah were common, especially during its battles with Israel. Casualties mounted daily, with dozens of deaths, and the phrase "Fida el Hezeb – For the sake of the Hezb" was uttered every time losses occurred. But today, that phrase is heard only in Hezbollah-controlled areas. Most of its supporters have been displaced, losing their homes and jobs. Anger over the imposed and unjustified war lingers, with no legitimate justification for it. The pretexts ranged from the duty to support Gaza to the unification of battlefields, and the list goes on.
Recently, there have been noticeable shifts in the mood of Hezbollah’s supporters, particularly in the Baalbeck region, once one of the group's strongholds. This area, which has been unwillingly confined to a narrow existence, is now far removed from any prospects of a peaceful life. The consecutive wars Hezbollah has fought in Syria to defend Bashar al-Assad and his oppressive regime have sparked widespread discontent, particularly in Northern Beqaa, where the cost in lives and property has been steep. This discontent has recently erupted into an uprising, especially in Baalbeck and Hermel. Calls made by Houna Loubnan to several residents have revealed a strong desire for expression, as silence is no longer acceptable — especially since many have lost everything. They are left with nothing but empty promises.
The residents have expressed a desire to free themselves from Hezbollah’s grip. New movements are emerging, rejecting Hezbollah’s monopoly over Shiite representation and refusing to fight in regional wars on behalf of Iran, without regard for Lebanon’s security. This sentiment was recently made clear by audio messages posted on social media, rejecting the group’s lies and false promises. The residents also pointed out that the results of the May 2026 parliamentary elections will reflect their stance, signaling that the upcoming phase will be different. As a result, the sectarian rhetoric Hezbollah has relied on will no longer "work" because its support base is no longer accommodating it. Baalbeck’s clans have become increasingly vocal, especially after many of their sons perished in a futile war aimed at implementing foreign agendas. This war has turned their areas into warehouses for weapons, missile manufacturing and hubs for transferring Iranian arms through Syria into Lebanon, making the region a target for daily airstrikes. The people are now seeking a new path, one that diverges from the "jihadist" messages that Hezbollah constantly uses as a banner for its wars. Instead, they yearn for a legitimate homeland that embraces them as citizens.
Residents have also pointed out certain well-known Shiite families in Baalbeck and Hermel who have never supported Hezbollah. These families, along with political figures who have remained outside the umbrella of the Shiite duo (Hezbollah and Amal), have supported Lebanese legitimacy, participated in government for decades and set a good example of service and success.
In this context, southerners are no different from the residents of the Beqaa. A man from Mays al-Jabal spoke to Houna Loubnan and conveyed the views of displaced residents who are now living with relatives and friends. They have returned to square one after investing their life savings in building homes and establishing livelihoods, only to lose everything. He also mentioned that a number of expatriates who own homes in the border villages have filed lawsuits against Hezbollah for the destruction it has caused.
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