Mikati pledges government compensation for war-affected southerners

Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati has committed to providing financial compensation to those in the south of Lebanon affected by Israeli attacks, as reported by al-Akhbar newspaper. Mikati stated that the government is actively seeking the necessary funds to support this initiative.

The plan includes granting $20,000 to the families of individuals who lost their lives in the attacks and $40,000 to owners of residential properties that have been completely destroyed. Additionally, the government intends to establish procedures for determining compensation amounts for partial damages to homes, businesses, and both public and private structures.

Unofficial figures indicate that over 1,000 residential units have been entirely demolished since the conflict’s onset, with significant damage to numerous other properties, infrastructure, and agriculture.

Al-Akhbar also mentioned ongoing discussions led by Speaker Nabih Berri about a specific compensation effort for tobacco farmers in border areas, notably in towns like Rmeish, Aitaroun, Houla, and Mays al-Jabal, who have been adversely affected by the hostilities.

The conflict, which began in October, has seen regular skirmishes along the Lebanon-Israel border, involving Hezbollah and the Israeli military. Lebanon has reported at least 322 fatalities, including Hezbollah combatants and 56 civilians, while Israel has confirmed the deaths of at least 10 soldiers and seven civilians as a result of the conflict.

The ongoing violence has led to the displacement of thousands from their homes on both sides of the border, with Israel warning of potential operations against Hezbollah to facilitate the safe return of its citizens.