After witnessing the devastation of Beirut from abroad, Abed Al Kadiri, a 40-year-old artist living in Kuwait, felt compelled to act. His decision to return was motivated by a sense of obligation to his community and family, underscoring the emotional strain many expatriates have felt during the crisis. “Going back was the only best option,” Al Kadiri said, capturing the sentiment shared by many in the diaspora eager to provide physical and financial support to their homeland.

The war has left Lebanon in dire need of humanitarian assistance, driving many returning citizens to contribute both resources and aid. As they navigate the challenges of reintegrating into a fractured society, their personal and collective stories highlight the resilience of a nation trying to find a path toward recovery amidst the ongoing tensions and uncertainty.