Combonian news from Lebanon and Sudan, countries marked by war

Lebanon – escalation of the conflict and humanitarian crisis. March has been marked by a new escalation of the conflict in Lebanon, with Israeli airstrikes hitting the south of the country and the southern suburbs of the capital Beirut, where the Shiite population is most concentrated. Compared with the military campaign at the end of 2024, the intensity and geographical spread of the offensive appear to have increased. According to estimates reported at the end of March, around 1,300,000 people have been forced to leave their homes, seeking refuge mainly in the northern areas of the country.

Our formation community, located in northern Beirut, is currently in an area not directly affected by the ongoing bombardments, but continues to follow the situation with great concern, as the country is once again experiencing severe human, social and economic strain.

Sudan – Easter hope in Khartoum. In Khartoum, we are preparing for the Easter celebrations in a context still marked by the war that began on 15^th April 2023. For many parishes, this will be the first celebration of Holy Week with the presence of some priests and of the archbishop since the beginning of the conflict. This is a small but meaningful sign of ecclesial continuity and hope amid suffering.

The path towards peace remains long and passes through the material and social reconstruction of the country, supported also by the solidarity of many benefactors and by the generous commitment of our confrères alongside Christian communities, step by step.

Father Diego Dalle Carbonare, MCCJ