Israeli forces have systematically destroyed entire neighborhoods in southern Lebanon, leveling more than 37 towns and wiping out over 40,000 residential units, according to Lebanon's National News Agency.

The destruction reportedly spans a zone approximately three kilometers deep, stretching from Naqoura to the outskirts of Khiyam, as Israel continues its military campaign.

Speaking via Voice of Lebanon radio station, researcher Mohammad Chamseddine from Information International cautioned that it remains too early to fully assess the extent of the damage due to the ongoing conflict. However, preliminary estimates indicate that around 44,000 homes across southern Lebanon have been destroyed, including 22,000 that sustained partial damage, with an additional 120,000 suffering minor impacts.

Chamseddine estimated the cost of reconstructing a single home at around $75,000, suggesting that the rebuilding effort for destroyed homes alone could reach approximately $4.2 billion.

He emphasized that Israel's “scorched-earth” tactics have left no traces of life in affected regions, with concerns that any future political settlement may prevent displaced residents from returning to their homes. The heaviest destruction has been recorded across 29 villages stretching from Naqoura to Shebaa, comprising 29 villages where 30,000 homes have been completely destroyed. This area, spanning 300 square kilometers, was home to around 70,000 Lebanese residents before the conflict.

In addition to the staggering infrastructure damage, Lebanon’s broader economy is reeling, with indirect losses already estimated at $4 billion, Chamseddine pointed out.

The economic situation has worsened significantly in the last month, with a reported 50% contraction in economic activity as key sectors collapse under the strain of conflict.

“The greatest losses are in human lives,” Chamseddine noted, with more than 3,000 fatalities reported, while many more remain unaccounted for beneath rubble, alongside heavy casualties among fighters. 

Chamseddine pointed to an uptick in remittances from the Lebanese diaspora, intended to support displaced families, as economic activity in some safer regions continues. Despite this, the ongoing economic decline has led businesses to cut salaries or lay off workers, compounding the financial crisis.

Chamseddine warned that continued fighting would only deepen Lebanon’s losses. He called for precise damage assessments and urged the government to evaluate future risks realistically, as Lebanon faces the monumental challenge of rebuilding amid ongoing instability.