Mar 12 • 11:47 UTC 🇶🇦 Qatar Al Jazeera

Video.. Al Jazeera accompanies a shepherd in southern Lebanon who holds on to his flock despite the war

This article reports on a shepherd in southern Lebanon who continues to care for his livestock despite the dangers of war, highlighting the challenges faced by rural residents in conflict zones.

In southern Lebanon, amidst the vast fields close to the border town of Khyam, shepherd Muhammad Sweid remains dedicated to his flock even as war looms nearby. He monitors his sheep as they graze cautiously near conflict lines, struggling to carry on with his work amid the chaos and constant threat posed by nearby military actions. His situation reflects the plight of many rural residents who face profound financial and emotional challenges during times of conflict.

Like many livestock herders in border villages, Sweid has experienced displacement due to increased shelling in his area. However, unlike others who have sought refuge in shelters like schools or public buildings, he remains with his animals because those facilities cannot accommodate his livestock, which is his primary source of income. Sweid's difficult choice underscores the sacrifices made by agricultural workers who prioritize their livelihoods over personal safety.

This is not Sweid's first experience with displacement; he has previously had to flee his home due to past conflicts. When facing past wars, he had time to relocate his animals to safer areas, but the current circumstances are more dire, forcing him into a more precarious situation without the assurance of safety for his flock or himself. His story illustrates the broader struggle for survival faced by those in conflict zones, showing resilience in the face of adversity and the personal toll of war on rural communities.

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