Lebanese refugees fleeing Israeli-Hezbollah conflict welcomed in Karbala
Ali Husseini, head of media affairs at the Husayniyya board, announced that more than 2,000 Lebanese refugees have been accommodated in modern housing facilities near the revered shrines of Karbala.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Hundreds of Lebanese refugees, displaced by the ongoing war between Israel and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, have found refuge in the city of Karbala, central Iraq. Religious officials in the city have stepped forward to provide them with shelter, education, and essential services.
Ali Husseini, head of media affairs at the Husayniyya board, announced that more than 2,000 Lebanese refugees have been accommodated in modern housing facilities near the revered shrines of Karbala. "We have welcomed them with shelter in three modern cities around the shrines, offering high-quality education and living facilities," Husseini said. He noted that these services were established to support both pilgrims and those in need, including refugees fleeing conflict.
Despite the warm reception and comprehensive care, many refugees expressed a deep longing for their homeland. One refugee, who shared the harrowing experience of fleeing Lebanon amid bombings along the Lebanese-Syrian border, described the difficult journey to Iraq. “It was very difficult, especially when we left Lebanon for Syria, and the border was bombed. I was with my family and children, and we suffered a lot. But when we arrived in the city of al-Atabat al-Aliyat, the people here welcomed us with open arms and provided all the services. Still, our hearts are in Lebanon.”
The trauma of leaving behind their homes, schools, and communities has taken a toll on the refugees, but they are grateful for the security they have found in Iraq. “When you leave your home, you leave your dreams, your school, your university, and your community,” another refugee said. “It creates mental pressure, but being safe is the priority.”
The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has claimed over 2,300 lives and left hundreds more injured in southern Lebanon since the Israeli offensive began nearly a month ago. For the Lebanese refugees in Karbala, the future remains uncertain as they hold onto hopes of peace and an eventual return to their homeland.
Meanwhile, the city of Karbala continues to extend support, offering sanctuary to those fleeing the devastation of war.
