The recent airstrikes have triggered widespread fears among locals about the possible presence of Hezbollah leaders or fighters who may be targeted in future attacks. This has led to calls for evacuating certain areas or requiring residents to pledge not to host visitors or strangers. Meanwhile, several landlords have started pressuring tenants to vacate their rented apartments as quickly as possible, driven by demands from local communities or neighbors. This situation is creating a new crisis, heightening tensions between residents and displaced people, and sparking conflicts within civilian communities.

In a series of statements issued by municipalities in Iqlim al-Kharroub and the Chouf region, authorities have urged displaced people not to receive visitors, particularly if they are Hezbollah officials or fighters, regardless of their rank. In other areas, municipalities have asked homeowners to provide full details about their tenants, including contact information.

In recent days, many tenants have reported being asked to leave their rental homes. One such case involved a journalist who was forced to vacate a property in Deir al-Qamar after objections from neighbors. Another case involved a journalist who had planned to move into a house in Achrafieh at the end of October, only to receive a call from the landlord canceling the agreement.

MP Abdallah: Leadership Fragmentation Is a Challenge

MP Bilal Abdallah told Annahar that the statement he issued following the Barja incident inspired several municipalities to take action. 

"We’ve been coordinating with the relevant authorities, as the area is home to 120,000 people and cannot handle the risks posed to both the displaced and the residents."

"We are making significant efforts with those involved, but the fragmentation within the concerned party [Hezbollah] is severe. There is no longer a unified command or system, which complicates things. However, over time, we expect the situation to stabilize," Abdallah said.

He emphasized that the main issue isn't the shelters but the homes, as 80% of displaced individuals are living in private houses and apartments.

"This makes our task more difficult. We cannot afford to be either too lenient or too strict, as that could spark conflict. Not every displaced person is a militant, but at the same time, we do not want individuals in sensitive positions residing among civilians."

Regarding fears of sectarian conflict, he stated: "Sectarian conflict is stirred up by political discourse, not by minor, isolated incidents. This is why we, in the Democratic Gathering, are focusing on promoting national unity, bridging differences, and ensuring no one feels marginalized."

MP Hankach: The Threats Are Serious

Turning to the Metn region, Kataeb MP Elias Hankach confirmed that there is ongoing coordination with municipalities and security agencies. He stressed the importance of local authorities, including governors, district officials, municipalities, and village dignitaries, taking responsibility, especially in light of the recent airstrike that hit the northern town of Ayto.

"This could easily spread to other areas," he warned.

"We are closely monitoring these latest threats. This is not a joke. We had previously warned about exposing safe areas to the risk of bombardment," Hankach told Annahar. 

MP Hajj: 40,000 Displaced in Metn

MP Razi Hajj noted that the Lebanese Forces Party is closely monitoring the displacement issue in the Metn district, where the number of displaced individuals has now reached around 40,000, with 26,000 living in private homes and the remainder in shelters.

He pointed out that "there are certain organizational measures that need to be taken, particularly in residential complexes. Municipalities have a role to play in regulating housing to ensure it meets the needs of residents, such as access to water and parking."

"While we are welcoming the displaced as part of our community, we are concerned that some of them may be used as human shields by members of Hezbollah's security or military wings. The government must take responsibility and enforce strict measures to prevent social unrest," Hajj cautioned.

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Above is the translation of an article featured on Annahar by Iskandar Khashasho.