A year ago, Jomana Siddiqui visited Lebanon where her father is buried. Planning a return with her daughters, she now worries about relatives amidst the violence and Israel’s military campaign. The diaspora, from the U.S. to South Africa, Brazil, and beyond, grieves and fears for loved ones. Lina Kayat in South Africa feels echoes of past turbulence, speaking daily to her scared family in Lebanon.
Lebanon’s rich history and allure contrast with the current turmoil, worsened by economic woes and the recent violence. As James Zogby questions the future for the displaced, the Lebanese community worldwide unites in solidarity. From rallies in Dearborn to tragic losses in Brazil and Cyprus, each story reflects a mix of resilience and pain. Amid it all, family ties, safety, and hope for a better future drive decisions to stay or leave.
In California, Siddiqui grapples with the emotional toll, like many others feeling helpless yet determined to support from afar. As the crisis unfolds, the diaspora remains a pillar of support for Lebanon, a country facing immense challenges and uncertainty.