Nestled in the scenic foothills of Mount Lebanon, the village of Deir al-Ahmar in the Bekaa Valley has become a haven for thousands seeking safety from relentless Israeli airstrikes. Once a quiet village, Deir al-Ahmar has seen its population more than triple in just two months, with its residents opening their homes, churches, and schools to approximately 12,000 displaced individuals.
The influx has extended beyond Deir al-Ahmar. Across the surrounding municipality, which comprises 13 Christian villages, the population has swelled to nearly 22,000, double the usual number of inhabitants. Most of the displaced are Shia Muslims, a community heavily affected by the ongoing bombardments, as it forms the core support base of Hezbollah.
Despite political differences, Deir al-Ahmar’s predominantly Christian residents, many of whom support the Lebanese Forces—a right-wing Christian political party and long-time Hezbollah adversary—have welcomed their Shia neighbors with open arms.
“Treating your neighbors well is a pillar of Deir al-Ahmar,” said Jean Fakhry, the village’s mayor. “It wasn’t an obstacle for us to be humane towards each other.”
This spirit of unity amid adversity stands as a powerful example of compassion triumphing over political and religious divides. Deir al-Ahmar’s response highlights how communities can come together in times of crisis, offering hope and solidarity in the face of turmoil.