The traditional Thursday market in Bint Jbeil, which for decades served as the economic heart of the city, is currently experiencing one of its most severe crises since its establishment. The market, which once hosted dozens of stalls each week and attracted buyers from across the region, now stands empty of 80% of its regular visitors, while most stalls see almost no commercial activity.
The unstable security situation in southern Lebanon, along with the deepening economic crisis, has completely stifled trade in the city. Migrants and traditional visitors have not returned even during the summer season. Merchants describe an atmosphere of complete paralysis. The market, once a symbol of community life and popular revival after the 2006 war, now reflects the depth of the economic and security crisis affecting southern Lebanon.
The markets of southern Lebanon and the civilian commercial activity within the Shiite base constitute part of Hezbollah’s economic and logistical backbone. Hezbollah makes extensive use of commercial activity to serve its military interests. Despite the economic difficulties the organization faces, Hezbollah continues its efforts toward civilian reconstruction and maintains support for its base in southern Lebanon. Civilian and economic activity form an integral part of the rehabilitation of Hezbollah and its military capabilities.
