In the face of intensifying conflict in Lebanon, Senegal has taken swift action to repatriate its citizens, with emotional scenes unfolding at Leopold Sedar Senghor International Airport in Dakar. On October 19, 2024, 117 Senegalese nationals, including 11-year-old Mariam Hachem, arrived home on a government-organised flight. Mariam, who sustained injuries during the conflict, was embraced by her father, Hussein Hachem, who had lost his son and their home in the same Israeli airstrike in southern Lebanon.
The ongoing conflict between Israeli forces and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, coupled with the broader Israel-Hamas war, has triggered waves of violence, leading to significant civilian casualties and destruction. “I lost everything. I lost my son. I lost my house. All my dreams,” Hachem expressed in despair as he recalled the tragic loss of his 14-year-old son, who perished moments after a conversation with his father.
Senegal’s Foreign Minister, Yassine Fall, condemned the attacks, referring to them as a “genocide” and calling for global attention to the human rights violations occurring in the region. “We are witnessing the bombardment of civilians, hospitals, and refugee camps where people are maimed and killed,” she stated. Senegal has a long-standing relationship with the Palestinian people, dating back to its role as chair of the United Nations Committee for the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People since 1975.
The Senegalese government has been proactive in ensuring the safety of its citizens amidst the conflict, repatriating as many as possible. Demonstrations in Dakar have also highlighted public outcry, calling for an end to the violence in Gaza and Lebanon.
With nearly 1,000 Senegalese nationals residing in Lebanon, the crisis has left many families in a state of uncertainty, as the war shows no signs of abating. This tragedy highlights the widespread impact of the conflict, reaching beyond the Middle East and into the homes of Senegalese citizens who have long held ties with Lebanon. As the violence continues, Senegal stands in solidarity with international calls for an immediate ceasefire and a return to peace in the region.
