Families living south of the Litani River are effectively cut off after the destruction of the Qasmiyeh Bridge, with access to coastal and main roads now blocked and conditions deteriorating day by day. 

Melkite Greek Archbishop of Sidon and Deir al-Qamar, Elie Haddad, told kataeb.org that while a full picture of the situation is still emerging, reports indicate that some Christian families have fled villages along the border strip. However, many residents remain trapped in a tightening circle as key routes are impassable, forcing some to navigate rough coastal farm tracks.

Haddad warned of the potential catastrophic consequences if Israeli forces were to reach Sidon. He also expressed concern over the lack of clarity regarding Israeli intentions, particularly after Tel Aviv made it clear that Lebanon is not included in the Iran ceasefire agreement, leaving the situation open to unpredictable developments.

Despite the restrictions and risks, the Archdiocese of Sidon continues to provide humanitarian assistance, monitoring local conditions and supporting displaced families in an effort to mitigate the mounting crisis.

Aid continues to reach Christian villages through Caritas under the oversight of the Apostolic nuncio, Paolo Borgia. Patriarch Bechara Rai’s recent visit also facilitated the delivery of significant quantities of food and relief supplies. Nevertheless, some villages, including Dibel, remain inaccessible, with the situation on the ground likely to remain fluid in the coming days.