Conflict Overview: Jabal Mohsen and Beb El Tebbeneh Communities vs. Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF)
The communities of Beb El Tebbeneh and Jabal Mohsen in Tripoli, Lebanon, have long been marred by tensions and conflict. Most of the conflict and clashes have taken on two main streets in Tebbeneh, Syria and Malloule streets, once conflict zones. For years, political and sectarian divisions fueled hostilities between these neighboring areas.
After that, in 2014, a ceasefire was implemented and the LAF, the only security institution responsible in Tripoli, was seen as insufficient and biased by both neighborhoods. The conflict with the LAF also stems from deep-seated mistrust and perceived partiality, which has exacerbated tensions and fueled ongoing disputes which led to strained relations between the communities of Jabal Mohsen and Beb El Tebbeneh and the LAF.
MARCH’s Approach to Building Bridges
To bridge the communal divide between both the communities of Jabal Mohsen and Beb El Tebbeneh as well as with these communities and the LAF, MARCH worked on implementing communal events in specific targeted areas with the aim of breaking down long-standing barriers and promoting unity and peace through inclusive activities involving both communities and the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF).
Youth and Army Join Forces for Peace: The First festival on Syria Street Unites
To strengthen the relationship collaboration and trust between residents and the LAF, community engagement sessions and trust-building workshops were held prior to the events.
The first communal event took place on October 8th on Syria Street, engaging 70 at-risk youth (30 women, 40 men) and 451 army members. The event featured joint entertainment parade shows by the Lebanese Army which marked the first time ever after the 2014 clashes that the army implements entertainment activities on Syria street. Highlights included 30 army members rappelling, 36 participating in an army march, and over 1,000 servings of traditional foods distributed.
Former Conflict Zone Hosts Unity Festival: The Second Communal Festival on Malloule Street
On April 19th, a second event was held on Malloule Street, strategically located between the former conflict lines of Jabal Mohsen and Beb El Tebbeneh. It involved 70 youth and 72 army members in organizing, entertainment, and logistical roles. The event featured food stations, martial arts show, and entertainment activities. The youth of MARCH and LAF jointly managed security, logistics, and communication, fostering collaboration and trust.
Fostering Unity and Stability through MARCH’s Community Initiatives
The event successfully drew 2,800 community members which proved to be a success in improving the relations between the youth of Jabal Mohsen and Beb El Tebbeneh. By engaging in joint events and cooperative projects, the youth of MARCH have begun to build mutual respect and understanding between their communities and the LAF. This collaboration has helped to break down long-standing barriers, reduce animosity, and foster a sense of shared purpose, paving the way for a more harmonious and cooperative community.
After the community engagement activities, the community now perceives the LAF more positively. These initiatives have also demonstrated the LAF’s commitment to helping to alleviate previous biases and misconceptions. The increased visibility of the LAF’s efforts to work collaboratively and address community concerns has fostered greater trust and cooperation, contributing to a more supportive and collaborative relationship between the LAF and the community.
Much More to Come!
MARCH’s community events successfully brought together the divided communities of Jabal Mohsen and Beb El Tebbeneh, promoting peace and a positive change in perception towards the other. By involving the youth of which most are former fighter or previously incarcerated individuals and the LAF, the initiatives helped change their negative perceptions, as they have only seen the LAF on the checkpoints now they see the LAF as aiding in contributing to long-term stability. Through shared activities and cooperative planning, the events highlighted the potential for unity in even the most challenging environments.
