Struggling amid war and economic hardship, Lebanon hosts its initial local elections in nearly a decade.
Voters Head to the Polls in Damaged Suburbs as Hezbollah Holds Strong
Wheelbarrows and fire hoses sit beside voting booths in public schools near the wreckage of buildings destroyed during the Israel-Hezbollah war. 2025 brings Lebanon's first local elections in nearly a decade. These polls, though less significant than the parliamentary election slated for 2026, serve as a telling barometer of political support post-war.
After a U.S.-brokered ceasefire ended the 14-month conflict, Lebanese now cast their votes in the Mount Lebanon districts, including Beirut's battered southern suburbs—strongholds of Hezbollah and allies. For Hezbollah and fellow Shia party, the Amal Movement, victory in the southern suburbs' municipal councils and mayoral races appears imminent—flags and party members adorned in green and yellow paraphernalia are a constant presence outside polling stations.
The devastating war, which claimed over 4,000 lives, has significantly impacted political support, particularly in the south. Residents are gravely concerned with rebuilding their homes and livelihoods. Aspiring Haret Hreik municipality candidate, Mohammad Awali, emphasizes the massive reconstruction responsibility weighing on municipal councils.
As Lebanon's cash-strapped government seeks extensive international funding for reconstruction, the World Bank estimates the cost will exceed $11 billion. Delayed budgets, however, continue to stand in the way of necessary funds, with municipal elections postponed three times.
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In 2025, Lebanese voters will participate in local elections, specifically in the destroyed suburbs of Beirut, which were damaged during the Israel-Hezbollah war. These polls could indicate political support post-war, especially in the southern districts. In the southern suburbs, Hezbollah and the Amal Movement anticipate winning municipal councils and mayoral races. The devastating civil conflict cost over 4,000 lives, significantly impacting political support, particularly in the south. The government of Lebanon, struggling financially, is seeking international funds for reconstruction, with an estimated cost exceeding $11 billion. Unfortunately, delayed budgets have postponed the much-needed municipal elections three times.
Additional top headlines include:- Scientists observe a deep ocean volcanic eruption for the first time- Two Western Australian sites are named among the 11 best lakes to visit in the U.S.- The whereabouts of a toddler remain unknown after the deportation of the child's parents- Donald Trump sparks controversy with an AI-generated image of himself as the Pope ahead of the papal conclave- A federal judge hinders Trump's retribution campaign against a leading law firm with an executive order.
