Lebanon has incurred significant financial losses from the ongoing conflict, amounting to a staggering $18 billion, according to economic expert Elie Yachoui.

Sector-by-Sector Breakdown of Losses

In an interview on Voice of Lebanon radio station, Yachoui explained that the agricultural sector, particularly in the Bekaa Valley and southern Lebanon, has suffered $2 billion in losses.

Meanwhile, the industrial sector has recorded $1 billion in damages.

The trade sector has faced even more significant financial hardship, losing $3 billion as a result of the war.

The most substantial damage, however, has been to Lebanon's infrastructure. Companies, buildings, homes, and the country's overall infrastructure have collectively lost $4 billion.

Additionally, the services sector—an essential pillar of Lebanon’s economy—has experienced $8 billion in losses.

Yachoui further noted that Lebanon's GDP growth in 2024 has already turned negative due to the conflict, compounding the economic challenges.

Lebanon's Precarious Position in the Region

Yachoui also highlighted the underlying weaknesses in Lebanon’s economic and geopolitical position, pointing out that Lebanon's financial troubles are not only a result of the war but stem from the lack of Arab financial support, which has been absent both before and after the conflict. This, he argued, is largely due to Lebanon’s alignment with regional alliances and its biased foreign policy.

“Lebanon’s weakness lies in its lack of Arab financial backing,” Yachoui said. “The country’s involvement in regional power struggles has cost it much-needed support, and the ongoing war has only worsened this situation.”

The Broader Impact of the Conflict

Yachoui underscored the devastating effects of the war, not only on Lebanon but also on Gaza, both of which have been severely damaged by the hostilities.

“As a result of this war, Gaza and Lebanon have been devastated, and the Palestinian cause has been lost,” he stated.