What if the world mobilized for southern Lebanon as it did over a plane hijacking?

A suspected hijacking of a plane bound for Tel Aviv sparked widespread reactions within minutes, with anxiety, apprehension and fear of the consequences. It was a reminder of how quickly the world responds to a potential threat, while residents of southern Lebanon face real and recurring danger: bombardment, displacement, restricted access to roads and an uncertain return home.

Streets around the world saw mass demonstrations in solidarity with Gaza, and protests supporting Lebanon during the war. But that momentum gradually faded, while the tragedy in the south continued, far from the public attention it drew at the outset.

People in southern Lebanon deserve solidarity that lasts beyond breaking news, and voices in the streets of the world that remain raised for as long as their suffering continues.