Rescuers from the Lebanese Civil Defense Force are working tirelessly in the aftermath of Israeli air strikes in the Bekaa Valley, eastern Lebanon. Samir El Chekieh, a 32-year-old firefighter and paramedic, is at the forefront of the rescue efforts, despite the lack of rest and food. The escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has resulted in an increase in civilian casualties, including women and children.
The intensity of the bombings has spread beyond the southern border villages and into Shia areas like Baalbek and Sidon. While Israel claims to target only Hezbollah fighters and infrastructure, the Lebanese government reports a high number of civilian casualties.
Samir and his team rush to the scene in El Karak, where they find chaos and destruction. Despite the dangers, they tirelessly search for survivors in the rubble. They rescue a 10-year-old girl and her baby brother, Mohammed, who is now being treated for injuries in Iraq.
The CDF crew, led by Samir, do not discriminate based on religious or sectarian lines. They are dedicated humanitarians who work tirelessly to save lives, regardless of the victim’s background.
The ongoing conflict has taken a toll on both sides, with thousands displaced and many lives lost. Despite international efforts to negotiate a ceasefire, the violence continues unabated. The situation remains dire, with no end in sight to the devastating impact of the war on the people of Lebanon.