A recent report by journalist Jovel Álvarez, published on Mar. 24, describes the impact of the ongoing US-Israel-Iran conflict on Lebanon’s Christian community and broader society. The article provides a detailed account from Beirut’s waterfront, where displaced people—including Abu Ali Hamiyeh from the Bekaa Valley—are building makeshift homes after evacuation orders from the Israeli army.
The situation is significant as it highlights not only the widespread displacement affecting Muslims and other groups but also brings attention to Lebanese Christians, who Álvarez says are often overlooked in media coverage. Christians in Lebanon have faced repeated wars and now lament that Hezbollah’s actions have drawn their country into another conflict.
Pope Leo XIV visited Beirut last December and called on Lebanese citizens to be “builders of peace.” During a special Mass, he said: “The path of mutual hostility and destruction in the horror of war has gone too far, with the deplorable results that are plain for all to see.” He urged a change of course: “We need to change course; we need to educate our hearts for peace.”
Álvarez reports that many Christians feel their calls for peace have been drowned out by violence. President Joseph Aoun criticized Hezbollah for dragging Lebanon into what he viewed as an unnecessary war. Meanwhile, civilians—including Christians—have become casualties or targets amid ongoing fighting between Hezbollah and Israel. Father Pierre al-Rahi died after being wounded by Israeli tank fire while helping parishioners in Qlayaa.
Despite these dangers, some communities continue religious practices as acts of resilience. At St. Elias Church in Beirut, members participated in public professions of faith even as nearby areas faced gunfire and evacuation orders. Rosine, a Catholic woman preparing her parish’s paschal candle for Easter Vigil amidst uncertainty outside her home, symbolizes this endurance.
Álvarez concludes that while many mourn Lebanon’s decline due to repeated conflicts, hope persists among its Christian population who look forward to celebrating Easter despite an uncertain future.
