1 تشرين الثاني 2024 12:00ص ترشيشي: نستطيع تغطية حاجات السوق المحلية على الرغم من الحرب

The Impact of War on Lebanese Agriculture: A Farmer's Perspective

The Challenges of a War-Torn Landscape

The ongoing Israeli aggression on Lebanon has had devastating consequences across all sectors, with agriculture bearing the brunt of the crisis. The olive season, a cornerstone of Lebanon's agricultural heritage, especially in the south, has been particularly affected. The olive tree, a symbol of resilience and identity, has become a target, with the enemy threatening to prevent residents from returning to their fields. This threat is not merely a blow to the local economy; it undermines the historical bond between the southerners and their land. The occupation threatens a historical livelihood passed down through generations. Families rely on the olive harvest to recover losses and reignite hope for a return to normalcy.

The situation has only worsened with the Israeli focus on bombing the border crossing with Syria. This has further hindered agricultural exports, compounding the problems already faced by the sector. The agricultural sector has long struggled with export difficulties due to political issues with Arab countries. This latest aggression adds another layer of hardship, crippling agricultural production.

Resilience and Production Amidst the Crisis

Ibrahim Tarchechi, President of the Farmers' Association, asserts that the ongoing daily Israeli bombardment will inevitably have a negative impact on the agricultural sector. The forced displacement of Lebanese citizens and the inability of farmers to tend to their land due to the continuous aggression pose significant challenges. Farmers are unable to properly cultivate their land, harvest crops, or secure the necessary labor for tasks like irrigation, weeding, and pest control. This situation has created a genuine crisis for farmers amidst the ongoing aggression.

The grape harvest has been especially challenging. Due to the war, workers are unable to access some vineyards, and those who can be found are demanding triple wages for their labor. Even if the grapes are harvested, the uncertainty surrounding their transport further complicates the situation.

Despite the adversity, Tarchechi emphasizes that agricultural production persists. Stored quantities of potatoes, grapes, apples, onions, and other fruits and vegetables are available in cold storage facilities, providing a degree of food security for the Lebanese population. This resilience ensures a continued supply of fresh produce to the Lebanese market.

Ensuring Food Security: Addressing Challenges and Maintaining Prices

While there is no immediate fear of soaring vegetable and fruit prices, the lack of consumer demand and the surplus of produce due to the displacement of over a million Lebanese citizens is causing a drop in prices. With many displaced people reliant on aid, the demand for produce is significantly lower than usual. The closures of markets in Sidon, Tyre, Nabatieh, and Qab Elias due to the war further exacerbate the situation, leading to a surplus of unsold goods. The war has also hindered access to southern markets due to road closures, exacerbating the problem.

Despite the challenges, Tarchechi assures that the production is substantial, and there is enough to meet the needs of the local market. The resilience of the agricultural sector, despite the ongoing conflict, demonstrates the ability to provide for the Lebanese people's essential needs. While the war continues, farmers remain steadfast in their commitment to ensuring food security and sustaining the livelihoods of Lebanese families.