Lebanon Conducts First Local Elections Since Ceasefire with Israel-Hezbollah

Report By Safarti Tarjuman International Desk

Lebanon held its first local elections in nearly ten years on Sunday, marking a crucial political milestone following the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah after a prolonged 14-month conflict.

The initial round of polling commenced in Mount Lebanon districts, including the southern suburbs of Beirut—areas heavily damaged by Israeli airstrikes and once home to Hezbollah’s leadership. These regions were among the hardest hit during the conflict, which resulted in over 4,000 casualties and widespread destruction.

While municipal elections do not carry the national weight of the 2026 parliamentary vote, they serve as a critical barometer for public sentiment. The outcome is expected to reflect changing political dynamics and the impact of the war on voter confidence, particularly in Hezbollah-dominated areas.

The Shiite parties Hezbollah and the Amal Movement are expected to secure a majority of local council and mayoral positions in Beirut’s southern districts. Party supporters wearing green and yellow flags and clothing were present at polling stations to support their candidates.

Balloting took place in public schools and near the ruins of neighborhoods flattened by Israeli air raids. With Lebanon’s government facing a deep financial crisis, officials are urgently seeking international assistance. The World Bank estimates that reconstruction efforts will require over €9.7 billion.

Municipal elections were previously postponed three times due to financial and political instability. Their resumption is viewed as a significant step in reactivating democratic governance at the local level.

Reconstruction and recovery were top concerns among voters. Mohammad Awali, a candidate from Haret Hreik, stated, “Our municipality faces an enormous challenge. The destruction is vast, and our community looks to us for leadership and solutions.”