Bangladeshi migrant workers fleeing Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon describe their traumatic experiences and the loss resulting from the conflict. As many rush to Saida for shelter provided by NGOs and the embassy, the uncertainty of safety looms large amidst ongoing violence. Key individuals share their harrowing tales of escape and survival, highlighting the humanitarian crisis faced by expatriates in the region.
In the midst of ongoing Israeli airstrikes targeting civilian areas in Lebanon, Bangladeshi migrant workers recount harrowing experiences of escape and uncertainty. Morium Begum, a mother of two and a housekeeper in Nabatieh, described the alarming situation as she fled the violent consequences of the attacks that began in late September. With explosions ringing out around her, she felt compelled to leave her life and possessions behind in search of safety. Begum joined approximately 120 other Bangladeshi nationals who were evacuated recently, many of whom gathered in Saida, where local NGOs and the Bangladeshi embassy have offered shelter. Despite the perilous journey back home, she expressed gratitude for her survival, admitting that she had to leave everything behind, including her clothes and personal belongings. Shila Khatun, another domestic worker from the same region, echoed Begum’s sentiments about the devastation she witnessed. She shared that, had she remained for just a few more days, she might not have survived, as her workplace was destroyed by the airstrikes. Khatun vividly described her arrival at the shelter in Saida, where a bomb detonated a mere 100 meters away, leading her to describe the temporary safety as “hell on earth,” marked by an overwhelming feeling of horror and despair. Mohammad Uzzal, who had been employed in a restaurant in Nabatieh, recounted his fortunate escape aided by his employer, who ensured he had his passport and some funds to continue his journey. Similar to his compatriots, Uzzal acknowledged the precarious situation, particularly as he remained anxious about his two children back home. He articulated a profound sense of relief and gratitude for surviving and returning to his family, referring to his survival as akin to receiving a second chance at life. The situation for Bangladeshi workers in Lebanon is further complicated by the presence of approximately 70,000 to 100,000 nationals, many of whom are undocumented. The Bangladeshi Ministry of Foreign Affairs indicated that repatriation efforts are hindered by airport closures and issues surrounding proper documentation.
The article focuses on the devastating impact of Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon, particularly as it relates to Bangladeshi migrant workers who find themselves trapped in the conflict zone. With a significant number of Bangladeshi nationals residing in Lebanon, many of whom are working without proper documentation, the situation is further exacerbated by the lack of resources and official channels for evacuation amidst ongoing military operations. The quotes from individuals recounting their personal experiences reflect the larger humanitarian crisis and the psychological toll of survival in such harrowing circumstances.
In conclusion, the accounts of Bangladeshi nationals fleeing Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon underscore the profound sense of fear and loss experienced by individuals caught in the crossfire of war. Evacuees like Morium Begum, Shila Khatun, and Mohammad Uzzal illustrate the dire conditions and uncertainties faced by migrant workers as they navigate their way to safety while losing their homes and personal possessions. Their stories serve as poignant reminders of the human cost of armed conflicts, urging a greater focus on humanitarian assistance and support for those affected.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
