Lebanon is moving forward with municipal elections in its conflict-ravaged south on Saturday, pressing ahead despite ongoing Israeli airstrikes, widespread displacement, and severe logistical challenges.
The vote is held in the governorates of South Lebanon and Nabatieh, even as large parts of the border region remain under sporadic fire. Tens of thousands have been displaced since the cross-border conflict between Israel and Hezbollah began in October 2023, and basic services have collapsed in many towns.
Interior Minister Ahmad Al-Hajjar this week reiterated the government’s commitment to asserting sovereignty across all Lebanese territory. He said discussions were underway with international mediators to help ensure a calm election day, but stressed that Beirut “does not wait for guarantees.”
Still, organizers face daunting challenges. According to the Southern Border Villages Association, the displacement of residents has made voting logistics nearly unmanageable. The Interior Ministry says 37 out of 60 border villages remain empty, with polling stations relocated to safer areas. The association also cited the reluctance of election supervisors-legally required to come from outside the region-to travel to volatile zones due to the threat of Israeli drone strikes.