Lebanese anger shifts from Israel to Hezbollah's actions

An airstrike in Lebanon killed six members of Mohamad Sabra's family, including his wife and young son. While he blames Israel for the attack, he also holds Hezbollah responsible for bringing war to his country. The conflict began escalating in October 2023 when Hezbollah fired missiles at Israel, following an attack by Hamas. This led to a series of Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon targeted at Hezbollah infrastructure. The UN reports that thousands of civilians have died, and over a million people have been displaced. Mohamad's house was struck by an Israeli missile on September 23. He and his mother survived, but his eldest son was injured. They received a warning to evacuate but believed it was a mistake and chose to stay. The Israeli Defense Forces confirmed the strike, citing the targeting of terror infrastructure, but did not provide details about the civilian casualties. Many Lebanese people are shifting their anger from Israel to Hezbollah. Some, like local shop owner Mahmoud Chouaib, are publicly criticizing Hezbollah for their decisions, which they believe have put civilians in danger. Mahmoud has even sued Hezbollah after his business was damaged during a nearby explosion. A new movement is forming among Shia Muslims in Lebanon, aiming to create a political alternative to Hezbollah. They want to stop the group's influence and prevent further violence. This initiative comes after the death of Hezbollah's leader, indicating a possible change in the group's hold on power in Lebanon. People are beginning to speak out against Hezbollah, as they seek a new path forward for the country. The emerging group, called Toward The Rescue, plans to participate in the next parliamentary elections and aims to draw support away from Hezbollah. They believe change is essential for a better future in Lebanon.